Cebu’s push for bigger classrooms, stronger roads, and improved public services took center stage this week as the Cebu Provincial Development Council (PDC) Executive Committee endorsed projects worth P66.68 billion for possible inclusion in the proposed 2027 national budget.
The endorsement, made during the council’s March 2 meeting, covers Programs, Activities, and Projects (PAPs) submitted by five national government agencies.
These proposals will now advance to the Regional Development Council (RDC) for further discussion on March 30.
The largest portion of the proposed funding goes to the Department of Education’s (DepEd) flagship initiative, “Advancing Climate-smart, Quality, Inclusive, and Resilient Education” (ACQUIRE), which accounts for P34.38 billion of the total.
DepEd officials said ACQUIRE aims to modernize the education system and prepare students for future labor demands, noting projections of a potential shortage of 188,000 semi-skilled workers by 2035 if reforms are not implemented.
The program will strengthen Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) programs and enhance the senior high school Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) track to equip students with practical skills aligned with industry needs.
Funding for ACQUIRE will come largely from a loan with the Asian Development Bank, supported by international education partners.
During the meeting, Cordova Mayor Cesar Suan questioned the reliance on external financing instead of realigned national funds.
DepEd explained that competing budget priorities necessitated the loan to ensure the program’s continuity.
Infrastructure projects submitted by the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH-7) received the second largest endorsement, totaling P31.98 billion for 348 initiatives across Central Visayas.
These include a P200-million seawall and a P200-million road development with slope protection in Cordova to improve safety and protect communities from natural hazards.
This endorsement follows an earlier February 13 Full Council Meeting, when the PDC backed P63.54 billion worth of DPWH projects covering 1,336 initiatives.
The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) secured approval for P167.42 million in projects, highlighted by a P15-million Science Center for Sustainable Development, envisioned as the first of its kind in the country.
Meanwhile, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources–Environmental Management Bureau (DENR-EMB) received P150 million for a proposed Metro Cebu Solid Waste Master Plan Study, aimed at addressing long-term waste management challenges in the region.
The Office of the Provincial Prosecutor also raised urgent requests, including P250,000 for internet infrastructure, P500,000 for law enforcement training, and funding for a service vehicle.
These were referred to the Provincial Peace and Order Council for further action.
All endorsed PAPs will be presented at the upcoming Full Council Meeting of the Regional Development Council on March 30 for review and possible inclusion in the national budget. (SBA)
