President Benigno S. Aquino III said on Monday that the government finally achieved a zero backlog in classrooms with the construction of 66,813 classrooms.
In his speech during the ceremonial turn-over of the 66,813 classrooms at the Carmona National High School here, the Chief Executive said the Department of Education (DepEd) finally achieved its target of zero backlog last December, 2013.
“Nang maupo tayo sa puwesto, tumambad sa atin ang nakakalulang kakulangan sa sektor ng edukasyon. Kapos tayo sa libro, silya, at mga guro. Mayroon din tayong—eto na po ang pamosong numero—ng 66,800 na kakulangan sa silid-aralan,” he said.
President Aquino said the government managed to mobilize partnerships with various government agencies, local government units (LGUs), the private sector and foreign donors to help meet the target.
The classrooms, ranging from one-storey structures to multi-floor buildings, were constructed using national and local government funds and donations from the private sectors.
The President lauded Education Secretary Luistro for his commitment and dedication to provide the basic needs of students such as classrooms, chairs and books, among others.
President Aquino expressed belief that education is the central strategy in reducing poverty and building national competitiveness. (PCOO)