DAVAO CITY — The Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA) is mobilizing private-sector financing to construct 11,096 new classrooms across Mindanao. The initiative aims to accelerate education infrastructure delivery through partnerships with the PPP Center, Department of Education, and Department of Finance.
A Bold Step for Mindanao's Youth
MinDA Chairperson Secretary Leo Tereso Magno emphasized that real development cannot happen without investing in human capacity. He stressed that the best way to build Mindanao's future is to invest in its young people. His remarks came during the PPP School Infrastructure Project Investor Forum held on September 1, 2026, in Makati City.
The forum brought together government agencies, financial institutions, investors, and development partners. The focus was on the PSIP IV-Mindanao tranche, which covers the 11,096 classroom project. The event was jointly organized by DepEd, the PPP Center, MinDA, the Department of Finance, and the American Chamber of Commerce.
Addressing a Severe Shortage
Mindanao currently faces a staggering shortage of 51,445 classrooms. Relying solely on traditional annual government appropriations would take decades to resolve this gap. Public-Private Partnerships offer a faster, more efficient path to construction.
The Build, Lease, and Transfer modality will be used for this project. This model allows private companies to finance and build classrooms, which the government then leases over time. It accelerates delivery while ensuring quality and climate-resilient facilities.
Relief for Overcrowded Schools
Many public schools in the Davao Region and across Mindanao deal with severe congestion. Some classrooms accommodate up to 65 students, making effective learning difficult. Expanding classroom inventory will lower student-to-teacher ratios and improve daily learning environments.
Disaster-resilient facilities are also a priority. Mindanao is prone to earthquakes and extreme weather events. Building safe, climate-resilient schools protects students and keeps schools operational during emergencies.
A Boost for Local Economies
Private sector involvement under the BLT model generates local construction contracts and engineering jobs. It also creates demand for local supply chains centered around Davao City and neighboring provinces. The initiative promises economic ripple effects beyond just education.
PPP Center Executive Director Rizza Blanco-Latorre underscored the need for stronger private sector engagement. She noted that the PPP Center is working with DepEd to design the project and assist through approval. The goal is to ensure investment opportunities are responsive to market conditions.
