By Rachel Magday

 

NUEVA VIZCAYA, Philippines — Governor Atty. Jose V. Gambito has formed an ad hoc committee, chaired by Provincial Engineer Jerry A. Tan, to coordinate a provincial partnership with the Department of Education (DepEd) aimed at addressing classroom shortages across the province.

The creation of an ad hoc committee by Gov. Gambito signals the provincial government’s clear interest in Education Secretary Sonny Angara’s invitation to partner with the Department of Education to address classroom shortages through LGU-led school building projects.

The move formalizes provincial engagement and begins the process of evaluating and preparing priority projects for implementation.

Secretary Angara’s invitation follows President Ferdinand “Bongbong” R. Marcos’s directive to pursue innovative implementation methods for programs funded under the 2026 General Appropriations Act, with an emphasis on reducing corruption risks.

Under DepEd’s proposal, the local government unit would take the lead on procurement and construction, while DepEd would provide funding and technical assistance to ensure compliance with national standards and quality assurance.

Gambito said the arrangement could accelerate classroom delivery, strengthen local ownership, and enhance transparency in project implementation.

The committee will include representatives from the Provincial Legal Office, the Provincial Planning and Development Office, and the Schools Division Office–Nueva Vizcaya.

Its tasks are to review the MOA, identify and prioritize projects that meet DepEd standards, prepare required documentation, and coordinate technical and timeline requirements with DepEd.

Governor Gambito said the partnership will enable swift implementation once the MOA is finalized and priority projects are secured.

“Our commitment is clear: safe and adequate learning spaces across Nueva go Vizcaya so every child can learn, grow and succeed,” he added.