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Villar files bill proposing free on-site housing for public school teachers

Philippines | National

Villar files bill proposing free on-site housing for public school teachers

By MBrand

Senator Mark Villar

Senator Mark Villar

Senator Mark A. Villar has filed the “Teachers’ Home in School Act,” a bill seeking to provide free on-site housing for public school teachers, particularly those facing long or difficult commutes.

Villar said many teachers assigned to far-flung areas are forced to rent small rooms or live apart from their families just to remain close to their schools. “This measure ensures that they have a safe and decent place to stay while fulfilling their noble mission,” he said.

According to the Department of Education (DepEd), 20.8 million students are currently enrolled in public schools for school year 2024–2025. To help meet demand, the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) has approved 16,000 new teaching positions for 2025–2026.

Under the bill, the DepEd and the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) will oversee the construction of housing facilities within or near public schools. Funding will come from the DepEd budget and the Special Education Fund sourced from local government real property taxes.

Villar emphasized that improving teachers’ living conditions is an investment in the nation’s future. “When we take care of our teachers, we empower them to nurture the next generation of thinkers, problem-solvers, and leaders,” he said.

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