MANILA, Nov. 25 -- Senators threw their full support behind the Department of Education's (DepEd) record PHP1.044 trillion budget for 2026, citing Education Secretary Sonny Angara's reform-driven leadership and the agency's clearer direction in addressing long-standing problems in basic education.

During plenary deliberations on Monday, lawmakers described the 2026 budget as a turning point for learning recovery, classroom expansion, and teacher and learner support systems.

Senate Finance Committee chairperson, Senator Sherwin Gatchalian, said the increased allocation reflects confidence in Angara's stewardship and the Senate's unity in pursuing major improvements in the education sector.

Senator Bam Aquino, chairperson of the Committe...