DBM releases P1.67 B for classrooms in Yolanda hit areas

MANILA, Philippines - The Department of Budget and Management (DBM) has released P1.67 billion for the construction of 1,704 classrooms in elementary and secondary public schools in areas hit by Super Typhoon Yolanda, in line with the Aquino administration’s goal to close the nationwide classroom gap.

DBM Secretary Florencio Abad said the money was turned over to the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), the agency  in charge of the rebuilding of classrooms damaged by Yolanda.

 â€œWe have to make sure our students enjoy sufficient school facilities that make their campus environment more conducive to learning,” Abad said.

Of the total amount, the big chunk or P558.7 million would go to Eastern Visayas for the construction and reconstruction of 559 classrooms. Regions VI and VII would get P212.9 million and P287.3 million, respectively, for a combined target of 509 classrooms.

 â€œOur budget for the year fully supports the needs of our education sector, as advancing quality education in the country remains a top priority. The same can be said for our post-calamity rehabilitation efforts, where we continue to ‘build back better’ and fast-track recovery in all affected areas,” Abad said.

The DBM recently released P7.35 billion for the construction of 7,136 classrooms nationwide comprising 5,916 classrooms for elementary schools and 1,220 classrooms for secondary schools.