DepEd chief Angara disappointed over P12B budget cut; Gutierrez seeks accountability

Former senator and current DepEd Secretary Sonny Angara expressed disappointment over a P12 billion cut in his department's budget for 2025, primarily affecting the computerization program.

Angara highlighted the importance of modernizing education through technology to bridge the digital divide, emphasizing that without access to new technology, students and teachers may struggle.

Rep. Ramon Rodrigo 'Rodge' Gutierrez from the 1-Rider Party-list argued that the budget cut is a call for accountability in fund management, citing issues of mismanagement during Vice President Sara Duterte's tenure as DepEd secretary.

Gutierrez noted that only P2.18 billion out of P11.36 billion allocated for ICT equipment was utilized in 2023 and added that the non-delivery of thousands of laptops further complicates the situation.

Angara acknowledged President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.'s intention to remedy the budget cut but emphasized the urgent need for adequate funding to address the digital divide and improve education technology.