STRENGTHENED PARTNERSHIP

CATHERINE S. MEDINA

With lack of school infrastructure and resources as one of the biggest challenges the basic education sector faces, the Department of Education (DepEd) and the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) renewed their partnership in strengthening the School Building Program (SBP) to address the nationwide classroom gaps.

Vice President and Secretary of Education Sara Z. Duterte launched the MATATAG Agenda which includes the establishment of the School Infrastructure and Facilities strand, entirely devoted to addressing long-standing issues on education facilities and infrastructure.

The Secretary urged stakeholders to work harder to build more schools and classrooms for Filipino children and youth so they can learn, develop, and realize their full potential.

Some significant roles and responsibilities in the partnership include DPWH processing the necessary permits and clearances, ensuring the construction of complete buildings, and assigning a DPWH Project Engineer to confirm the findings of DepEd.

On the other hand, DepEd, through its Division Engineer, shall assist DPWH in the needed documents for application, approval, and issuance of permits, monitor project implementation, particularly in the critical stages of construction, and inform the DPWH Project Engineer of observed defaults in the construction.

Furthermore, the agreement has likewise noted the reporting arrangements and task force mobilization of both Program Management Offices (PMOs) at the Regional Offices and quality assurance teams.

In addition, the direct release of funds to the DPWH Central Office for the construction and repair of school buildings will be based on the approved list and Sub-Allotment Releasing Order (SARO) issued by the Department of Budget and Management.

-oOoThe author is a Teacher I at FRANCISCO HENSON ELEMENTARY SCHOOL