Bacolod city: This highly urbanized city will distribute school supplies to an estimated 113,000 public school learners from Kinder to Grade 12 on June 8, coinciding with the opening of classes for school year 2026-2027. In his message on Monday, Mayor Greg Gasataya said parents and guardians don't have to spend for basic school items anymore since these will already be provided by the city government for free. 'We will start distributing this by Monday, at the start of classes,' he added.

According to Philippines News Agency, students will receive four notebooks, writing pads, pencils, sharpeners, and a customized backpack. Those in Grades 7 to 12 will receive a sling bag and a set of Physical Education uniforms. Gasataya stated that the city government remains committed to supporting public school students to ease the financial burden on families amid the challenges posed by rising fuel prices.

'This is an investment in the future of the youth of Bacolod City. That's why we are allocating enough resources to make it easier for students. So there will be no reason for them not to stay in school,' he added. For 2026, the city government allocated almost PHP90 million from the Special Education Fund for the purchase and distribution of school bags and other supplies.

Another PHP50 million has been set aside to expand the educational materials program in line with the implementation of City Ordinance 09-16-787, the amended ordinance that provides for free school kits containing notebooks, writing pads, pens, and pencils to all public elementary school pupils in Bacolod.