Senate pushes for increased funding of DepEd's student remedial program

MANILA — Several senators have advocated for enhanced funding of the Department of Education's remedial class program during discussions on the 2027 national budget, highlighting the initiative's importance in addressing student learning gaps.

During a Senate committee on finance hearing Friday, Senate President Win Gatchalian and colleagues including Senators Bam Aquino and Joel Villanueva emphasized the need to prioritize resources for the program, which provides supplementary instruction to struggling learners.

The Aral program, designed to offer targeted academic support outside regular classroom hours, has faced budget constraints in recent years despite its role in improving student performance and retention rates across the country's public education system.

The senators' push for increased appropriations reflects growing concerns about learning deficiencies among Filipino students, particularly following disruptions to the education system. Proponents argue that adequate funding for remedial initiatives is essential to ensure no student is left behind and to strengthen foundational academic skills.

The Senate committee continues its review of the proposed education budget as lawmakers weigh competing priorities in the comprehensive national spending plan for the coming fiscal year.