NATIONAL
Advocates Philippines
Marcos Warns LGUs Against Corruption In School Construction Push
Photo credit: PCO
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. delivered a strong reminder to local government units to keep procurement clean and transparent as they take on a bigger role in building classrooms across the country.
On February 11, Marcos led the signing of a Memorandum of Agreement between the Department of Education (DepEd) and LGUs aimed at accelerating the construction of new classrooms nationwide. The move is part of the administration’s effort to address the country’s massive shortage of learning spaces.
While LGUs will now have greater responsibility in implementing the projects, the President made it clear that national oversight remains in place.
During a Palace briefing, Presidential Communications Office Undersecretary Claire Castro said the President’s warning was meant to prevent irregularities and ensure funds are properly used.
Even if LGUs are given the budget and authority to decide on procurement, Castro stressed, it does not mean they are the only ones watching. The program remains a joint initiative with DepEd, and the President continues to monitor its implementation.
Marcos said empowering LGUs should help streamline processes, minimize delays, and speed up construction on the ground.
The government is targeting the construction of around 4,000 new classrooms in the first phase of the partnership. As of December 2025, the country faces a shortage of about 145,000 classrooms.
Funding for the initiative is backed by P85.39 billion allocated for Basic Education Facilities under the 2026 General Appropriations Act.
With billions at stake and thousands of classrooms needed, the administration’s message is straightforward—deliver results quickly, and do it with integrity.
On February 11, Marcos led the signing of a Memorandum of Agreement between the Department of Education (DepEd) and LGUs aimed at accelerating the construction of new classrooms nationwide. The move is part of the administration’s effort to address the country’s massive shortage of learning spaces.
While LGUs will now have greater responsibility in implementing the projects, the President made it clear that national oversight remains in place.
During a Palace briefing, Presidential Communications Office Undersecretary Claire Castro said the President’s warning was meant to prevent irregularities and ensure funds are properly used.
Even if LGUs are given the budget and authority to decide on procurement, Castro stressed, it does not mean they are the only ones watching. The program remains a joint initiative with DepEd, and the President continues to monitor its implementation.
Marcos said empowering LGUs should help streamline processes, minimize delays, and speed up construction on the ground.
The government is targeting the construction of around 4,000 new classrooms in the first phase of the partnership. As of December 2025, the country faces a shortage of about 145,000 classrooms.
Funding for the initiative is backed by P85.39 billion allocated for Basic Education Facilities under the 2026 General Appropriations Act.
With billions at stake and thousands of classrooms needed, the administration’s message is straightforward—deliver results quickly, and do it with integrity.
Feb 12, 2026
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