The Department of Education launched a P100.8‑million pilot program to provide financial assistance to learners and teacher‑coaches, aiming to boost participation in national and international competitions.
Education Secretary Juan Edgardo Angara stated that the initiative seeks to prevent talented individuals from being hindered by financial constraints and to allow participants to focus on skill development and national representation.
The GAS‑TUKLAS program offers aid to students and teacher‑coaches in public and private elementary and secondary schools, including those enrolled in the Alternative Learning System, for competition‑related expenses.
Priority is given to individuals from low‑income households. Applications are reviewed at the school, division, regional, and central office levels before final approval by the Central Office’s Government Assistance and Subsidies Service.
The assistance covers registration fees, training, preparation, travel, and lodging, within the limits of allowable expenses, competition requirements, fund availability, and applicable rules.
Applicants must submit the required documents at least 45 working days before entering any DepEd‑endorsed or acknowledged competitions in academic, sports, creative, or cultural fields, as well as interdisciplinary contests.
A list of accredited events will be updated periodically to guide participants.
The pilot for the 2026‑2027 school year will collect data and insights to refine the program and expand it into a national support mechanism for learners and teacher‑coaches across all regions.
A Senate bill proposes sports participation vouchers and financial aid for athletes from low‑income and underserved communities, along with funding for local sports and recreational facilities to encourage broader youth participation.
