A law aimed at bringing classrooms closer to children in remote communities is now headed to Malacañang for President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s signature after Congress ratified the Bicameral Conference Committee report on the Geographically Isolated and Disadvantaged Areas (GIDA) Schools Act.
The measure consolidates Senate Bill No. 1937 and House Bill No. 4745, and seeks to improve access to basic education for students in far-flung and underserved areas by reducing distance barriers and strengthening school support systems.
The GIDA Schools Act requires the establishment of schools within a three-kilometer walking distance for learners in identified remote communities, alongside the provision of safe transportation where needed.
It also includes provisions expanding support for teachers assigned in geographically isolated areas, including additional allowances, housing assistance, and professional support mechanisms intended to encourage deployment in hard-to-reach communities.
Senator Bam Aquino, co-chairperson of the Second Congressional Commission on Education (EDCOM II) and principal sponsor of the measure, said the law addresses long-standing access gaps affecting students in remote areas.
“Mahirap mag-aral, pero mas mahirap kung kailangang lakbayin ang bundok at ilog bago pa makahawak ng isang ballpen. Ang oras at lakas na dapat sana ay nakalaan sa pag-aaral ay nauubos na lang sa paglalakbay,” Aquino said.
Aquino said the legislation is intended to ensure that physical distance does not prevent children from accessing education, framing it as part of efforts to close what he described as “last-mile” gaps in the education system.
He also said that improving access must go hand-in-hand with strengthening support for teachers who serve in isolated areas, noting their role in sustaining learning in difficult conditions.
“Kapag mas nilalapit po natin ang eskwelahan sa mga bata, mas nilalapit din natin ang mga batang yan sa pagsasakatuparan ng kanilang mga pangarap,” Aquino said.
The senator acknowledged support from several lawmakers in both chambers, including Senators Win Gatchalian, Loren Legarda, and Joel Villanueva, as well as House Representatives Romulo Roman and Jude Acidre, among others, who backed the measure’s passage.
Once signed into law, the GIDA Schools Act is expected to form part of broader reforms aimed at addressing access gaps in the public education system, particularly in geographically isolated communities across the country.
Comments