THE Department of Education (DepEd) has designated Sorsogon as a pilot site for its expanded classroom construction program, a move welcomed by Senator Francis Escudero on Tuesday.
Escudero said the selection affirmed the role of capable local government units (LGUs) in driving faster development when supported by national agencies.
“This collaboration reflects the same framework that I advocated recently about national agencies partnering with LGUs that have proven capacity and stability,” Escudero said.
“DepEd’s confidence in Sorsogon shows how this model can deliver faster, more accountable results,” he added.
The lawmaker reiterated his earlier proposal for a tripartite arrangement among DepEd, the Department of Public Works and Highways, and the Department of Agriculture to empower qualified local governments to speed up infrastructure development, strengthen rural connectivity, and upgrade school facilities.
He issued the statement following Education Secretary Sonny Angara’s confirmation that a memorandum of agreement is scheduled to be signed on February 11 in Malacañang, with the President expected to witness the ceremony.
Under the proposed agreement, the provincial government will implement school building projects funded through the Basic Education Facilities Fund, taking charge of procurement and construction.
At the same time, the Education Department provides funding support and technical oversight to ensure compliance with national standards.
The senator expressed hope that the pilot program in Sorsogon would serve as a template for similar collaborations across the country, particularly in provinces with proven implementation capacity.
“DepEd’s openness to new approaches and Sorsogon’s readiness to deliver make this partnership a strong step toward ensuring that every Filipino learner has a safe, dignified, and functional classroom,” Escudero said.
