DepEd faces budget cuts as billions in funds remain unspent

The Philippine Department of Education (DepEd) faces a P12 billion budget cut for 2025, including a P10 billion reduction from its Computerization Program. This program aims to improve digital infrastructure in public schools but has struggled with low fund utilization rates. Lawmakers argue that the budget cuts are justified due to DepEd's inability to spend allocated funds effectively. Reports indicate that significant portions of previous budgets remain unspent, raising concerns about the department's efficiency and accountability. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has pledged to restore the P10 billion cut from DepEd's budget, emphasizing the need for adequate funding to meet educational demands. However, some lawmakers suggest using DepEd's unspent funds from previous years to address budget needs instead.