The education sector is set to receive an additional ₱56.6 billion under the proposed 2026 national budget, marking the biggest increase in history, according to the House appropriations committee.
During the Budget Amendments Review Subcommittee hearing on Wednesday, Oct. 8, lawmakers approved the unprecedented realignment to further support schools, students, and educational programs across the country.
“This is unprecedented. This is the first time in history… This will be the highest education budget in history,” said House appropriations committee and Nueva Ecija 1st District Rep. Mikaela Suansing.
Of the total realignment, ₱35 billion will go to the Department of Education’s Basic Education Facilities program, while ₱414 million will fund its computerization initiative. State universities and colleges (SUCs) will receive ₱4 billion to cover a three-year funding gap, and another ₱1.8 billion is allocated for the construction of SUC buildings and facilities.
The Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) will gain ₱3.6 billion to strengthen the Training for Work Scholarship Program and Special Training for Employment Program. These funds are on top of the ₱1.224 trillion already allotted for the education sector under the 2026 National Expenditure Program.
The subcommittee also approved amendments doubling the monthly ₱4,000 stipend of students in the Philippine Science High School (PSHS) System. Additional allocations include ₱19.49 million for science and technology scholarships, ₱4.7 million for student laptops, and ₱97 million for the construction and rehabilitation of PSHS facilities.
The House of Representatives is expected to convene in plenary on Friday, Oct. 10, to finalize and incorporate these amendments into the 2026 General Appropriations Bill before its approval on second reading, with the third and final reading scheduled on Monday, Oct. 13.
