Go backs expanded access to education in remote areas

MANILA, Philippines — Sen. Bong Go is pushing for expanded access to education in geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas following the approval on third and final reading of Senate Bill 1937 or the GIDA Schools Act.

The proposal seeks to institutionalize targeted interventions for public schools located in remote communities that continue to face barriers such as limited infrastructure, lack of electricity, difficult terrain and inadequate access to basic services.

These conditions have long affected the quality of education and learning outcomes among students in so-called last-mile schools.

“Distance should not be a hindrance for students to get education. It is our responsibility to bring public services, especially education, to communities that have long been left behind,” Go, chairman of the Senate committee on youth, said.

The measure seeks to establish a national mapping system to identify and monitor GIDA schools, allowing for more targeted planning and allocation of resources.

It also includes a provision that ensures that learners have access to a school within a three-kilometer walking distance, with transportation assistance to be provided when necessary.

The measure adopts a coordinated approach among relevant agencies to address infrastructure gaps, including the construction of access roads, provision of electricity and expansion of internet connectivity in underserved areas.

It also mandates the development of school facilities that are resilient to disasters and responsive to local conditions.

Go emphasized the importance of supporting teachers assigned in these areas, citing the need for incentives such as hardship allowances, housing assistance and opportunities for professional growth.

“We know the sacrifices of our teachers to reach these remote areas. We should give them more support and recognition for their services,” he said.

The bill encourages the hiring of local educators and the integration of indigenous knowledge systems and practices into the curriculum to ensure that education remains relevant to communities being served.

Data cited during Senate deliberations showed that a significant portion of students in GIDA schools fall below minimum proficiency levels, highlighting the need for sustained and focused interventions.

Go said that addressing disparities in education requires prioritizing those who have long been underserved.