Manila, Feb. 16 -- A proposed measure seeking to institutionalize and secure sustained funding for last-mile schools is drawing renewed attention in the Senate, aimed at closing education access gaps in geographically isolated and disadvantaged communities.

Senator Francis Pangilinan on Monday said Senate Bill No. 1842, or the proposed Last Mile Schools Act, aims to integrate last-mile schools into the public basic education system under a permanent policy framework.

The proposal sets criteria for identifying last-mile schools, including those with fewer than four classrooms, makeshift or non-standard rooms, irregular or no electricity, and no funding for repairs or new construction in the past four years.

Schools located at least one...