LGUs, DepEd ink MOA for classroom building program
By Mary Joy Cavañas
About 149 mayors across various regions in Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao, including Iloilo City Mayor Raisa Treñas, joined the signing of the Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) with Sec. Sonny Angara of the Department of Education (DepEd) for the Nationwide Classroom Building program initiated by President Ferdinand “Bong Bong” Marcos Jr. in the country.
The ceremonial signing took place during the launching of the President’s “Sa Bagong Pilipinas, Bawat Bayan Makikinabang” program at Malacañan Palace on February 23, 2026.
This initiative is covered through the 2026 General Appropriations Act (GAA), aiming to resolve the lack of classrooms in the country, ensuring that there will be new, safer, and enough facilities for the students.
In her statement, Mayor Treñas expressed gratitude as the national government aligns with Iloilo City’s vision and programs. She noted that the city has long dreamed of having extended access to quality education through better and modern learning environments.
“Through the combined strength of the city’s Special Education Fund (SEF) and the funds downloaded by DepEd, we are assured that this initiative will not only build classrooms faster but also sustain quality learning spaces for years to come. This strong national-local synergy ensures that our schools will continue to grow alongside the needs of our learners,” Treñas said.
Treñas also expressed thanks to the national government for the trust and support, stressing Iloilo City’s commitment to working hand in hand with its national partners in building more classrooms, uplifting schools, and securing a brighter future for Ilonggo learners.
Meanwhile, some notable leaders who attended the event included Former Vice President and Naga City Mayor Leni Robredo, Pasig City Mayor Vico Sotto, League of the Municipalities of the Philippine (LMP) – Iloilo Province President, Badiangan Mayor Suzette Mamon, and Iloilo Governor Arthur Defensor Jr. who expressed support to the administration’s programs.
