The Department of Education (DepEd) in the Philippines is facing problems after US President Donald Trump decided to reduce funding for the United States Agency for International Development (USAID). Because of this, four education programs in the country are now affected.

How Does This Affect DepEd?

In an interview on the news program Agenda from Bilyonaryo News Channel, DepEd Assistant Secretary Roger Masapol said that the department receives a total of $56 million from USAID. Out of five DepEd programs funded by USAID, one has already ended this February. However, the other four programs are still running.

Masapol explained that these programs include:

• Training for K to 3 teachers in selected DepEd regions
• Research for policy development
• Creating learning materials for the K to 12 curriculum

One of the most affected programs is inclusive education for blind and deaf children, which was supposed to receive an extension of $3.4 million for one more year. This program is important because it helps develop a roadmap for improving education for children with disabilities.

What Will DepEd Do Next?

Since USAID funds will no longer be available, DepEd is now looking for other sources of money within the department. They are also searching for new partners who can support the affected programs.

Masapol assured that DepEd will continue its projects. The department hopes that after 90 days, President Trump might change his decision and lift the funding cut. However, even if that does not happen, DepEd will still work to find solutions.

“We will not stop because of this. We have many partners who might help, and we will look for more,” Masapol said.

Final Thoughts

The funding cut from USAID is a big challenge for DepEd, especially for programs that help teachers and students with special needs. However, DepEd is determined to continue its plans by finding new funding sources and partners. The department remains hopeful that the situation will improve soon.

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