Manila, Philippines – Senator Paolo “Bam” Aquino IV is calling on both the executive and legislative branches of the Philippine government to prioritize education by allocating the largest budget in the nation's history to the sector. His plea comes amidst growing concerns over learning gaps, inadequate resources, and the ongoing challenges facing Filipino students and educators.

“We need to invest in our future, and that means investing in education,” Senator Aquino stated in a press conference on Monday. “The current situation demands a bold and decisive response. We’ve seen the impact of the pandemic on learning, and we need to ensure that our students are equipped with the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in the 21st century.”

Senator Aquino’s call isn't just about increasing the overall budget; it's about strategically allocating resources to address specific needs. He emphasized the importance of focusing on several key areas:

• Teacher Training and Development: “Our teachers are the backbone of our education system. We need to provide them with ongoing training and professional development opportunities to enhance their skills and keep them abreast of the latest pedagogical approaches.”
• Learning Materials and Infrastructure: “Many schools still lack basic learning materials and adequate infrastructure. We need to ensure that every student has access to textbooks, computers, internet connectivity, and a safe and conducive learning environment.”
• Early Childhood Education: “Investing in early childhood education is one of the most effective ways to improve long-term educational outcomes. We need to expand access to quality early childhood education programs for all Filipino children.”
• Addressing Learning Gaps: “The pandemic has widened the learning gap between students. We need to implement targeted interventions and remedial programs to help students catch up and get back on track.”

He highlighted that a record-breaking education budget would not only address immediate needs but also contribute to long-term economic growth and national development. “A well-educated population is essential for a competitive and thriving economy. By investing in education, we are investing in the future of our country.”

Senator Aquino’s proposal has been met with support from various education stakeholders, including teachers' organizations and parent-teacher associations. They believe that a significant increase in the education budget is crucial to overcoming the challenges facing the sector and ensuring that all Filipino children have the opportunity to receive a quality education.

The senator’s appeal comes as lawmakers are currently deliberating on the national budget for the coming year. He urged them to prioritize education and allocate the resources necessary to build a brighter future for Filipino students. The debate surrounding the budget is expected to be intense, but Senator Aquino remains optimistic that his call for a record-breaking education budget will be heeded.