The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) has announced the preparation of 660 land titles intended for public schools across the Philippines. This initiative aims to secure the legal ownership of school sites, ensuring that educational institutions have stable and recognized property rights.
Environment Secretary Maria Antonia Yulo-Loyzaga expressed that the move underscores the government's commitment to supporting the education sector. "By providing clear land titles, we are protecting the future of our students and teachers," she said in a statement.
The titles cover schools located in various regions, with priority given to areas where land disputes have historically disrupted operations. The DENR is coordinating with the Department of Education to identify the most critical needs.
This effort is part of a broader program to streamline land administration and reduce bureaucratic hurdles. School administrators have welcomed the development, noting that secure tenure will allow them to focus on improving educational outcomes rather than worrying about legal challenges.
Local government units are also being engaged to facilitate the smooth transfer of titles. The DENR expects to complete the distribution within the current fiscal year.