Notes from the Field

How Expensive Is It to Build A Classroom?

By Nic Gabunada
June 22, 2025 · 1 min read

Does it really cost ₱4-7M to build a classroom? Yes, according to Congressman Zia Adiong.

There are documents doing the rounds on social media of a proposal of Congressman Adiong of some ₱285M to fund the construction of 8 buildings, at around 62 classrooms. One even shows a building worth ₱30M, which has only 4 classrooms:

Looks expensive to me. Are they building “luxury classrooms” with high-end materials and smart TVs instead of projectors?

If the Department of Education (DEPED) grants this request, will they not become a party to the overpricing?

About the Author

Nic Gabunada Jr.

I’m Nic Gabunada — strategist, media veteran, Mindanaoan. ABS-CBN, Omnicom Philippines CEO, the 2016 campaign. Now leading LouderPH. Read my full story →

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