In a significant move to enhance educational infrastructure, the Department of Education (DepEd) has entered into a strategic partnership with the Land Registration Authority (LRA). This collaboration was announced in Manila and aims to accelerate the building of school facilities across the Philippines.
The agreement involves the transition from manual to electronic land titles, a change that DepEd Secretary Sonny Angara believes will eliminate delays in constructing new classrooms. ‘We see that the absence of a title leads to insecurity and delays in building new classrooms,’ Angara stated, emphasizing the importance of this initiative.
The partnership is expected to tackle bureaucratic hurdles and address the persistent issue of classroom shortages. LRA Administrator Sirios highlighted the significance of the agreement, noting its role in safeguarding assets crucial for the education and future of the youth. ‘This partnership not only secures the Department of Education’s assets but also ensures the future of our young people by providing locations for schools where quality education can be delivered,’ he explained.
Secretary Angara has also been advocating for increased public-private partnerships to expedite classroom construction. He has encouraged private companies to participate in the DepEd’s Adopt-A-School program and collaborate with the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) to streamline procurement and construction processes.
Currently, the DepEd reports a backlog of approximately 159,000 classrooms, underscoring the urgency and necessity of such initiatives.