The Department of Budget and Management (DBM) has granted approval for the release of a Special Allotment Release Order (SARO) totaling P1.295 billion to the Department of Education (DepEd). This allocation aims to cover the financial needs for electrifying unpowered schools and modernizing electrical systems in connected schools nationwide.

In a statement, the Budget Secretary emphasized that this initiative aligns with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s Bagong Pilipinas vision.

“Let us light up every classroom, sparking curiosity and igniting dreams. 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 under the visionary leadership of President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr.,” Sec. Amenah Pangandaman said.

“Investing in education means we are also investing on the needed facilities of our students. Malaking tulong po itong pondo para maging mas kumportable ang ating mga mag-aaral at guro sa kanilang classrooms,” she added.

The allocated funds will span across several regions, including the Cordillera Administrative Region, CARAGA, National Capital Region (NCR), and Regions I to XII.

As per the Special Provision of the FY 2024 General Appropriations Act (GAA), the allocated funds under the Program/Activity/Project (PAP) – Basic Education Facilities (BEF) are designated for electrification and modernization projects in schools. This includes upgrading existing electrical power systems, procuring and installing appropriate transformers, and potentially implementing solar power systems if necessary and suitable for renewable energy use.

The Special Provision also specifies that DepEd must prioritize the use of solar energy sources for providing electricity to both off-grid and on-grid public schools.

The released fund will be drawn from DepEd’s built-in appropriations under the FY 2024 GAA.

📷: Department of Budget Management FB