MANILA — The bicameral conference committee–approved P6.793-trillion national budget for 2026 marks a major victory for education and Filipino students, Sen. Paolo “Bam” Aquino IV said.

Aquino, who voted in favor of the ratification, noted that P1.35 trillion has been earmarked for education—the largest allocation in Philippine history.

“This historic allocation will translate into concrete support for students nationwide,” said Aquino, chairperson of the Senate Committee on Basic Education.

“More students will benefit from additional classrooms and free meals, as well as increased funding for free college, and financial assistance for RLE for nursing and health science students,” he added.

Under the bicameral version of the budget, P67 billion has been allocated for the implementation of Republic Act No. 10931, or the Free College Law, which Aquino authored. The amount also includes additional funding for the Tertiary Education Subsidy (TES) for underprivileged students.

The 2026 budget further allocates P68 billion for classroom construction, up from P18 billion, and P25.6 billion for the School-Based Feeding Program, up from P11.7 billion.

Additionally, P500 million has been set aside under the Maintenance and Other Operating Expenses (MOOE) of the Higher Education Development Program for financial support for RLE requirements in allied health sciences programs.

Aquino expressed gratitude to the groups and individuals who monitored and helped safeguard the budget process.

“But our duty does not end here. We must continue to be vigilant to ensure that the funds are used properly and do not end up in the pockets of corrupt government officials,” he said.

“Together, let us ensure that the funds go to education—not corruption,” he added.