DBM: P1.295B released to DepEd for schools' electrification, modernization of electrical systems

The Department of Budget and Management (DBM) said Thursday it has released over a billion pesos of public funds to cover the funding requirements for the electrification of public schools and the modernization of electrical systems in public schools all over the country.

In a statement, the DBM said Budget Secretary Amenah Pangandaman approved the Special Allotment Release Order (SARO) amounting to a total of P1.295 billion to the Department of Education (DepEd) on March 1, 2024.

The Budget department said the allocation will cover electrification and electrical systems modernization of public schools in the Cordillera Administrative Region, CARAGA, National Capital Region (NCR), and Regions 1 to 12.

The DBM noted that Special Provision of the Fiscal Year 2024 General Appropriations Act (GAA) states that a total of P1.295 billion is allocated under the Program/Activity/Project (PAP) - Basic Education Facilities (BEF).

The allocation shall be used for the electrification of un-energized schools and the modernization of electrical systems in on-grid schools.

These include the upgrading of existing electrical power systems of existing buildings, purchasing and installing appropriate transformers, and/or purchasing and installing solar power systems if needed and suitable for renewable energy use, the DBM said.

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

The released fund is chargeable against DepEd's built-in appropriations under the FY 2024 General Appropriations Act (GAA).

"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," said Pangandaman.

"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 (These funds will go a long way in making students and teachers feel comfortable in classrooms)," added the Budget chief. — VDV, GMA Integrated News