Angara cites P1.04 billion fund for special needs education

MANILA, Philippines — The P1.04 billion approved by the Senate to fund the Department of Education’s Special Needs Education program will boost the DepEd’s vital assistance to learners with special needs, Education Secretary Sonny Angara said yesterday.

Angara said DepEd has proposed P897 million for the Alternative Learning System, enabling more than 639,782 ALS learners nationwide to continue their education.

The program will also deliver capacity-building initiatives for 500 ALS implementers, with a strong focus on micro-certification to uplift teaching competencies.

Angara also reaffirmed the agency’s focus on ALS to uplift learners seeking a second chance at education, as at least 400 ALS learners have completed the Micro-Certification Program, giving them improved pathways to employment and livelihood.

DepEd is also pushing for P521.62 million to strengthen the Madrasah Education Program for Muslim learners, benefiting around 194,355 learners across 4,046 schools.

It added that the Indigenous Peoples Education program will receive P154 million for 2026, extending support to approximately 482,329 IPEd learners.

DepEd has likewise secured a partnership with Special Olympics Pilipinas to champion the inclusion of individuals with intellectual disabilities through transformative sports programs.

Angara said DepEd remains steadfast in its mission to ensure that every learner, regardless of condition, identity or circumstance, has access to quality and empowering education.