DBM releases P1.3 billion to light up public schools

MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Budget and Management (DBM) has released nearly P1.3 billion for the electrification of public schools nationwide.

Budget Secretary Amenah Pangandaman approved the release of P1.295 billion to the Department of Education (DepEd).

The allocation is provided under DepEd’s Program/Activity/Project-Basic Education Facilities under the 2024 General Appropriations Act.

The funding will cover the electrification of schools in all regions except in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao.

The amount will also cover the modernization of electrical systems in on-grid schools.

It will be used to upgrade electrical power systems of existing buildings as well as purchase and install appropriate transformers and solar power systems if needed and suitable for renewable energy use.

The DepEd shall prioritize the use of solar energy sources to provide electricity to both off-grid and on-grid public schools.

Pangandaman said investing in education means putting resources into the needed facilities of students.

“Let us light up every classroom, sparking curiosity and igniting dreams,” Pangandaman said.

”In the spirit of the Bagong Pilipinas, where discipline, prudence, continuous learning, patience and integrity are paramount, let us collectively work toward a brighter future for our beloved Philippines,” she added.