100 provincial SUCs to benefit from Marcos pledge to bolster education funding
More than 100 State Universities and Colleges (SUCs) in the provinces are expected to benefit from the commitment of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. to bolster funding for the education sector.
Department of Budget and Management Secretary Amenah Pangandaman said on Monday, Sept. 29, she will coordinate closely with Congress to secure swift approval of increased allocations, particularly for SUCs.
“Education has always been our number one priority under the NEP,” Pangandaman said in a statement.
“Few days ago, the President mentioned the reallocation of DPWH funds for priority programs, and kasama po sa pupuntahan niyan ang education sector (These will go to the education sector). We stand with this realignment, and we will make sure it is implemented properly so that our students, teachers, and SUCs receive the support they deserve.”
Pangandaman called on Congress to act with urgency in approving higher appropriations for SUCs.
“It is our hope that Congress will heed this call and put more resources where they matter most, in preparing our youth for the future,” she said, adding that without timely legislative support, universities and colleges may struggle to cope with a projected increase in enrollment.
Pangandaman assured students, parents, and educators that DBM will remain responsive to funding requests from SUCs.
“With enrollment in State Universities and Colleges projected to rise in 2026, the DBM will be ready to support whatever funding requirements our SUCs need to brace for this challenge,” she said. “Investing in education is an investment in the nation’s future. Providing sufficient resources for SUCs will not only address immediate enrollment pressures but will also strengthen the country’s long-term human capital development.”
President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. recently announced that P255.5 billion previously allocated for Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) flood control projects in 2026 will be redirected to fund programs under other agencies.
The President said the move follows the discovery of ghost and substandard flood control projects that would have otherwise consumed the funds.