Education Secretary Sonny Angara is pushing for a new policy that would allow local government units (LGUs) to directly handle classroom construction, a move aimed at accelerating projects and reducing backlogs.

At the House Committee on Appropriations hearing on Wednesday, Angara said the plan would lessen reliance on the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), cut bureaucratic delays, and tap local expertise to deliver school infrastructure faster.

“Every classroom we add brings hope and opportunity to learners. But delay in construction means children wait longer than they should. That is why we are looking for ways to build faster and smarter, with partners who are closest to the ground,” he said.

Under the plan, Angara said the agency will seek flexibility in the 2026 national budget to let qualified LGUs with proven capacity to undertake school-building projects.

He underscored the different capacities of LGUs in terms of technical expertise, financial resources, and governance structures to move projects quickly.

DepEd will retain authority over standardized designs and safety standards, while DPWH would still handle projects in areas requiring national oversight.

Angara said mechanisms such as accreditation, technical assistance, and co-financing are being studied to support low-income LGUs.

Since he assumed office in July 2024, Angara has secured more than PHP458 million in private sector commitments, funding at least 84 new classrooms and several upgrades.

“Our partners in local governments, civil society organizations, and the private sector have shown they want to be part of the solution. What we hope to do is create the space for their contributions to make a bigger impact,” he said. (PNA)