The Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD) and the Department of Education (DepEd) have signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to ensure the inclusion of basic education services in government housing projects nationwide.
In a news release on Thursday, DHSUD Secretary Jose Ramon Aliling noted that the MOU will institutionalize the coordination mechanisms between agencies — integrating education planning into the implementation of both public and private housing projects.
“Ang pagkakaroon ng maayos at sapat na silid-aralan o eskwelahan para sa ating mga kabataan ay tunay na makakatulong maiangat ang kalidad ng pamumuhay ng ating mga kababayan na naninirahan dito (Having adequate and well-maintained classrooms or schools for our youth will truly help uplift the quality of life of our fellow citizens living in these communities),” he said.
“Sabay po naming babalangkasin ang mga polisiya na nararapat at nauukol upang mas maging kapaki-pakinabang ang aming mga programa at proyektong Pabahay para sa pangangailangan ng mga kabataang Pilipino (Together, we will craft the appropriate and relevant policies to make our housing programs and projects more responsive to the needs of the Filipino youth),” he added.
Under the MOU, the two agencies will collaborate closely in the planning and allocation of school lots and educational facilities within or near resettlement areas and public housing developments.
The joint initiative also includes updating Comprehensive Land Use Plans (CLUPs) to better integrate educational infrastructure in urban planning and explore joint guidelines to guide local governments and private developers.
It supports President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s whole-of-government approach to inclusive development, where education, shelter, and essential services are delivered together to uplift the lives of underserved communities.
Aliling emphasized that integrating education into housing developments is not just about convenience but also upholds dignity and long-term development.
DepEd Secretary Juan Edgardo Angara echoed the urgency of the initiative, stating that no child should be left behind simply because schools are out of reach.
He noted that lasting solutions are built through collaboration of the concerned government agencies, local government units, and private sector.
The agreement, valid for two years with possible renewals, is set to become a key framework for synchronizing the country’s shelter and education strategies. (PNA)