President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. announced on Monday his commitment to reinstate the P10 billion cut from the Department of Education’s funding during discussions on the P6.352-trillion General Appropriations Bill for 2025, emphasizing that the restoration will occur without a line-item veto in the budget
This declaration follows concerns over the education department’s funding needs, which many believe are crucial for enhancing the quality of education in the Philippines. The education sector in the country faces several challenges, including the need for improved infrastructure, teacher training, and educational materials. The reduction in proposed funding had sparked reactions from various stakeholders who argued that the funding cut could potentially hinder the development and execution of essential educational programs.
President Marcos, addressing these concerns, underscored the importance of supporting education in the nation. He acknowledged the vital role that the Department of Education plays in shaping the future of Filipino youth. The president’s commitment to restoring the cut funds was seen as an affirmation of his administration’s prioritization of education.
However, President Marcos made it clear that the restoration would not be implemented through a line-item veto. A line-item veto is a power that allows a president to reject specific parts of a bill without vetoing the entire legislation. Instead, the president indicated that the funds would be restored through other means, which have yet to be specified. This approach suggests a collaborative effort to ensure that the education sector receives the necessary support without disrupting the broader budgetary process.
The cut in the Department of Education’s budget proposal had initially raised alarms due to the critical initiatives that require funding. These initiatives include efforts to address the learning gaps that have widened due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Schools across the nation are working to catch up on lost time and to adapt to new educational technologies and methodologies.
Educational advocacy groups and policy analysts have pointed out the need for increased investment in education. They argue that adequate funding is essential to equip schools with the resources they need for students to excel academically and to prepare them for future challenges in a globalized world. The restoration of the P10 billion is seen as a necessary step in aligning the nation’s educational outcomes with its economic and social development goals.