Thousands of students in Iloilo province are facing the prospect of another school year in crowded classrooms or makeshift learning spaces despite a P1 billion allocation from the national government for new buildings.

The Department of Education (DepEd) in Iloilo, through Schools Division Superintendent Dr. Ernesto Servillon Jr., acknowledged the ongoing classroom shortage. 

As of August 2023, schools in Iloilo province lack 1,652 classrooms, Servillon told Bombo Radyo Iloilo.

To address the shortfall, the national government allocated P1.041 billion for the construction of 160 classrooms across the province. This funding, sourced from the General Appropriations Act (GAA), is expected to reduce the classroom deficit by 40%.

“The construction of these classrooms is being processed with the assistance of local government officials, congressmen, and private groups,” Servillon explained.

However, based on the timeframe, Dr. Servillon cautioned that the new classrooms may not be completed by the opening of classes in July 2024.

To bridge the gap, DepEd Iloilo is implementing temporary measures such as utilizing libraries, converting lunch counters into classrooms, and creating makeshift classrooms.

Iloilo Governor Arthur Defensor Jr. has also pledged to build additional classrooms to further address the shortage.

Earlier in August 2023, it was announced that 302 classrooms are needed in the 1st District; 297 in the 2nd District; 385 in the 3rd District; 219 in the 4th District; and 449 in the 5th District.

The lack of classrooms has long been a problem in Iloilo, with many classes being held under trees or in makeshift shelters. This situation can disrupt learning and create a less than ideal environment for students.