Manila: More than 714,000 residents in 628 barangays nationwide are benefiting from 629 completed classrooms funded under the Support to the Barangay Development Program (SBDP), the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) said Wednesday. The DILG announced that the Marcos administration has allocated PHP2.36 billion toward 645 school building projects under the SBDP.

According to Philippines News Agency, these projects aim to provide quality education facilities closer to learners in communities cleared of insurgency, thereby ensuring safer and more conducive learning environments. Upon completion, the projects will deliver a total of 782 classrooms, increasing educational access in geographically isolated and underserved areas. Of these, 629 classrooms have already been completed, with the remaining projects in various stages: 35 in pre-procurement, 42 under procurement, and 76 under construction.

The DILG highlighted that the new school buildings offer students safe and comfortable learning spaces, paving the way for improved future opportunities. In Barangay Magsaysay, Dumaran, Palawan, a one-unit classroom building funded under the 2024 SBDP with a PHP2.5 million allocation has enhanced learning conditions for students. Similarly, in Can-avid, Eastern Samar, a two-story school building funded under the 2023 SBDP with a PHP6.61 million allocation now serves as both a learning facility and an evacuation center during disasters.

Barangay Captain Elgino Jarabe noted, 'Previously, when floods affected the school, students and teachers would lose equipment and materials. But now, this two-storey school building also functions as an evacuation site, protecting not only people but vital tools for learning.' The DILG stated that the SBDP reflects the administration's dedication to providing safe and adequate classrooms in formerly conflict-affected communities, while simultaneously enhancing educational opportunities for young Filipinos.