Over P600M earmarked for ALS

THE PHILIPPINES’ national budget for this year includes over P600 million to fund the implementation the Education department’s Alternative Learning System (ALS) program as well as support to learners with disabilities, according to a senator.

“Under the 2024 national budget, we will not forget our learners who need our help, including our students under the ALS and students with disabilities,” Senator Sherwin T. Gatchalian said in a statement released on Sunday.

Under the 2024 General Appropriations Act, at least P632.48 million is earmarked for the Flexible Learning Options to implement the ALS programs, as well as transportation and teaching allowances.

A budget of P100 million is also earmarked for textbooks and instructional materials under the program.

Under the Education department’s budget, P56 million is allocated for the construction of ALS community learning centers.

Mr. Gatchalian, who heads the Senate basic education panel, noted that the Alternative Learning System Act requires the Department of Education (DepEd) and local government units (LGUs) to provide at least one ALS community learning center in each city and municipality.

The ALS program is a “parallel learning system” for those who cannot access formals schooling, especially those who cannot finish elementary and high school.

ALS education is non-formal, as learning is conducted in community centers, libraries, village multi-purpose halls, or in one’s home.

As of March 14, 2023, there are 472,869 students enrolled in the ALS program, according to DepEd data.

The education sector has the biggest allocation in the 2024 budget at P924.7 billion, with DepEd receiving P758.6 billion. — Beatriz Marie D. Cruz