DepEd seeks private sector to help bridge digital gap faced by Pinoy learners

The Department of Education (DepEd) on Thursday underscored the continuing shortage of digital equipment in public schools as Education Secretary Sonny Angara called for deeper cooperation with the information technology and business process management (IT-BPM) sector to support the agency’s modernization efforts.

During a turnover ceremony at Rizal Elementary School in Taguig, Cognizant Technology Solutions Philippines Inc. (CTSPI) donated 906 laptops through the IT & Business Process Association of the Philippines (IBPAP). 

Eighty units were allotted to the host school, which DepEd said has over 4,500 learners but previously had only 38 functional computers.

Angara said private-sector support remains crucial as many schools continue to operate with limited digital resources, even as DepEd accelerates its push for technology-enabled classrooms.

2026 tech package

DepEd noted that the Senate version of the 2026 General Appropriations Bill sets aside P16.86 billion for the DepEd Computerization Program, which is expected to expand device deployment once approved by the bicameral conference committee.

According to DepEd, the 2026 package would fund:

• 255,590 laptops for teachers
• 60,070 laptops for learning cart packages
• 29,619 smart TV units
• 9,654 laptops for non-teaching personnel
• Expanded internet access for 8,253 school sites

The agency said these numbers indicate the scale of digitalization needed nationwide, given that many schools—particularly large campuses and those in remote areas—still lack adequate equipment.

Private sector help

IBPAP President and CEO Jack Madrid said member companies including Telus, PwC, Lenovo PCCW Solutions, Amadeus, Carelon, ING Hubs, Shearwater Health, and EY GDS have collectively donated more than 1,800 ICT devices to public schools.

DepEd said such contributions help address immediate gaps while long-term procurement and infrastructure programs are underway.

Angara added that donations and partnerships are needed to bridge existing shortfalls, especially in schools where aging devices, insufficient connectivity, and lack of teacher tools continue to affect digital learning.

Initiatives underway

Beyond the computerization program, DepEd cited the Public-Private Partnership for School Infrastructure Project (PSIP) Connect, which aims to expand access to devices, connectivity, and power solutions. The department also said efforts are ongoing to connect geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas through satellite technology.

Bridging the digital gap

DepEd said partnerships with the IT-BPM sector and other industries will continue as part of the agency’s broader strategy to ensure learners have access to tools needed in an increasingly technology-driven economy.

The department noted that while modernization plans are in place, large disparities in school resources make private-sector collaboration a necessary component of its near-term digitalization efforts. —Sherylin Untalan/RF, GMA Integrated News