As the 2026–2027 school year begins, lawmakers are renewing calls to encourage private sector involvement in public education to help address persistent challenges in the country’s schools.
Under the proposed Adopt-A-School Act of 2025 (Senate Bill No. 54) filed by Senate President Pro Tempore Win Gatchalian, qualified private entities and individuals—local or foreign—would be able to support institutions offering early childhood education, basic education, technical-vocational training, higher education, and the Alternative Learning System.
The measure aims to prioritize assistance to fourth- and fifth-class local government units, as well as those experiencing severe budget constraints or high numbers of underprivileged but high-performing learners.
Support from the private sector could include teacher training, construction and repair of school facilities, and the provision of updated instructional materials. Incentives for participants include additional tax deductions on incurred expenses, further deductions for hiring senior high school graduates, naming rights for facilities, and exemptions from import duties and taxes on donations, where applicable.
It is also emphasized that collaboration between government and private entities would accelerate access to quality education and provide students with more equitable learning opportunities nationwide. “When the government and private sector work together, we can more quickly give every child the chance to receive quality education,” Gatchalian said.