An Ordinance to Expand Free Educational Materials Program Approved on First Reading by the SP

In a bid to strengthen support for public education and ensure every child has the tools they need to succeed in school, the Sangguniang Panlungsod has approved on first reading the proposed ordinance amending City Ordinance No. 09-16-787, series of 2016, authored by Councilor Atty. Caesar Z. Distrito.

The amendatory ordinance seeks to increase the annual budget allocation from ₱15 million to ₱50 million to address the growing number of enrollees in elementary schools and the rising costs of instructional materials. It also expands the definition of “school supplies” to include a more comprehensive list, such as notebooks, folders, pencils, pens, rulers, pencil cases, erasers, sharpeners, and pad papers. The city, if the budget allows can also include school bags, PE Uniforms and school uniforms.

“This ordinance aims to reinforce the city’s commitment to accessible and quality education,” said Councilor Distrito. “We are addressing both the insufficiency of the budget and delays in procurement that have affected timely distribution in recent years.”

The ordinance also updates the procurement guidelines in line with Republic Act No. 12009, or the New Government Procurement Act, which has repealed RA 9184. This ensures that the procurement of educational materials follows enhanced standards of transparency, efficiency, and competitiveness.

The ordinance requires the creation of a committee to focus on the procurement process in coordination with the Department of Education and the Bids & Awards Committee, and setting a required timetable so that school supplies should arrive on time or at least within the week of school opening.

The amendment further authorizes the use of the Special Education Fund (SEF)—subject to the approval of the Local School Board—when regular appropriations fall short.

“This is a concrete step toward reducing the financial burden on families and empowering young learners across Bacolod City,” Distrito emphasized. “Education should never be hindered by lack of resources.”

The ordinance reflects the city’s continued effort to uphold the constitutional mandate of providing free and accessible basic education for all.

The measure is expected to undergo further deliberation in upcoming sessions before its final approval.* (CCZD)