PRESIDENT Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. announced a new initiative on October 24, 2025, empowering local government units (LGUs) to directly manage the construction and repair of classrooms using national government funds. The scheme aims to expedite the process of addressing the country’s persistent classroom shortage and support post-disaster recovery efforts, particularly the rehabilitation of classrooms damaged in recent earthquakes.
During a speech at the handover of patient transport vehicles in Butuan City, Marcos explained that the current system, where the Department of Education (DepEd) receives the budget and then transfers it to the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) for implementation, often results in delays due to bureaucratic hurdles. “Kaya’t para pabilisin natin, we are changing the system. From now on, lahat ng LGU na may kapasidad, na may kaya, ida-download namin ang pondo sa LGU na. Kayo na ang magpatayo ng inyong eskuwelahan,” Marcos stated, emphasizing the goal of accelerating classroom construction.
Marcos expressed confidence in the administrative capabilities of LGU executives, believing they can implement projects more efficiently and at lower costs. He also cautioned against corruption and substandard work, warning that LGU officials would face scrutiny from their constituents. “Ako malakas ang loob ko sa mga LGU executives dahil hindi sila puwedeng mag-ghost project. Sisitahin kayong lahat,” Marcos said, adding, “Hindi kayo puwedeng gawin substandard at pagka ginawa ninyo ‘yun, araw-araw ay minumura kayo ng mga constituents ninyo kung hindi tama ang trabaho ninyo.”
The President assured that the national government will provide assistance to LGUs lacking the necessary equipment and capacity to undertake classroom projects. This initiative is part of the Marcos administration’s broader strategy to enhance education infrastructure and ensure that students across the country have access to safe and adequate learning facilities.
