Pagcor and Philippine education dept work with local govt units to build classrooms

The Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corp (Pagcor) and the country’s Department of Education have signed agreements with 66 local government units (LGUs) as part of Pagcor’s programme to boost classroom infrastructure across that nation. Pagcor chairman and chief executive, Alejandro Tengco (pictured, right), and Education Secretary, Juan Edgardo Angara (pictured, left), were joined by representatives of the 66 LGUs at a signing ceremony in late September. The gaming regulator said each planned three-storey building would have 12 classrooms, fitted with furniture, electric fans and facilities accessible to people with disabilities. The classrooms would also have smart televisions, audio equipment and a one-year Internet subscription. Mr Tengco said he hoped the buildings could be completed in 2027 or 2028, particularly in communities with the greatest need for additional classrooms. “Through these classrooms, we hope to give the younger generation a better learning environment, a chance to discover what they are truly capable of, and a chance to build a brighter future,” Mr Tengco stated, as cited in a recent press release. The Pagcor chief also stressed the importance of close coordination between the involved parties, in order to ensure that the programme is carried out properly and that the facilities deliver lasting benefits to students and communities. In March, Pagcor earmarked an initial PHP1.37 billion (US$21.8 million) for 25 public school buildings under the programme. The school building programme is part of the agency’s “broader efforts to support public infrastructure and improve access to essential services, particularly in underserved communities,” per the update.