Senator Bam Aquino has pledged continuity in ongoing education reforms as he stepped down as chair of the Senate Committee on Basic Education, while committing to remain vice chairperson to ensure that key initiatives, including the 10-Year National Education Plan, continue without disruption.
Aquino committed as he turned over the committee’s leadership to Senator Loren Legarda, while urging colleagues to move past political divisions and focus on legislative work for the public.
He said his office will formally turn over research materials, studies, and proposed measures to Legarda to support a smooth transition and sustain ongoing education reforms.
Aquino highlighted the committee’s accomplishments during his 10-month leadership, including the passage of what he described as a record P1.34-trillion education budget for 2026.
The budget, he said, includes P67 billion for classroom construction to address infrastructure gaps, expanded funding for national feeding programs, and increased support for tertiary education assistance aimed at millions of students.
He said these allocations are intended to address long-standing issues in the education sector, including classroom shortages and student hunger.
Aquino expressed confidence in Legarda’s leadership, noting her long-standing involvement in education-related advocacy and policymaking.
He also said the Senate should sustain focus on urgent national concerns, including rising prices of basic goods and fuel.
Aquino said he has filed measures seeking to reduce value-added tax and remove excise taxes on petroleum products, which he said could help ease inflationary pressures.
He warned that economic challenges continue to affect ordinary Filipinos despite political tensions dominating public discourse.
The senator also underscored the importance of restoring public trust in institutions, saying the Senate must prioritize its core duties.
Aquino said credibility will depend on lawmakers’ ability to deliver reforms and address the daily struggles of citizens.
During his tenure as co-chairperson of the Second Congressional Commission on Education (EDCOM II), Aquino said he filed 12 bills, sponsored and co-sponsored nine measures, and authored or co-authored 22 bills, alongside participation in 14 hearings and meetings.
He said sustained cooperation among lawmakers is necessary to ensure that education reforms translate into long-term improvements for Filipino learners.
Photo from Bam Aquino / FB
Comments