MANILA, Philippines – The government has allocated P1 billion to fund the construction of Child Development Centers (CDCs) in 328 low-income local government units (LGUs), The Second Congressional Commission on Education (EDCOM II) said Thursday.

The initiative follows the signing of a Joint Circular (JC) between the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) and the Department of Education (DepEd), which operationalizes President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s directive to prioritize funding for ECCD. 

The ceremonial signing, held at Malacañang Palace on April 3, 2025, was witnessed by the President himself, highlighting the administration’s commitment to addressing gaps in early childhood education.

The Second Congressional Commission on Education (EDCOM II), which has been pushing for reforms in the education sector, welcomed the move. 

According to its Year 2 report, “Fixing the Foundations,” an estimated 5,800 barangays nationwide lack access to ECCD services, contributing to low participation rates in early childhood education. Only 21 percent of three- to four-year-old children are enrolled in such programs, with even lower participation for children aged zero to two.

“Studies show that early childhood care and development is a critical investment that reduces dropouts in school, improves foundational skills, and even boosts income levels later in life,” said EDCOM II Executive Director Dr. Karol Mark Yee. 

“This major investment signals the government’s commitment to addressing our learning crisis and ensuring no Filipino learner is left behind,” Yee said

Funding for the construction of CDCs will be sourced from the Local Government Support Fund – Financial Assistance to LGUs (LGSF-FA) under the FY 2025 General Appropriations Act (GAA). 

However, beneficiary LGUs must provide at least 150 square meters of land for the centers and assume responsibility for their operation, maintenance, and staffing.

EDCOM II’s findings highlight the disparity in education funding, with first-class municipalities having 68 times more Special Education Fund (SEF) income than sixth-class municipalities. 

The limited financial capacity of poorer LGUs has long hindered their ability to support early childhood education programs.

Senator Sherwin Gatchalian, EDCOM II Co-Chairperson, emphasized the significance of the initiative: “This is a crucial step to give our children a strong foundation to succeed. By building these CDCs in low-income LGUs, we are ensuring equitable support for ECCD programs and services.”

His fellow Co-Chairperson, Rep. Roman Romulo, echoed the sentiment, noting that the President’s backing of early childhood education reforms is a welcome development. 

“Investing in the early years is one of the best steps the government can take in ensuring that future generations thrive,” he said.

During the event, a video presentation highlighted the current state of ECCD in the country, followed by the official signing of the JC. In his speech, President Marcos underscored the importance of education initiatives beyond traditional classroom settings.

“We recognize that education goes beyond what happens just inside the classroom. The government continues to find ways to support our children so they can grow, thrive, and reach their full potential,” Marcos said. 

“Through health and community programs, we remain committed to helping them become productive members of society,” he said.

With the funding now set in motion, the government aims to bridge the early childhood education gap and equip young Filipinos with the necessary foundation for lifelong learning and success.