Senator Bam Aquino urged the government to strengthen programs and resources for children with disabilities and students with special needs, citing gaps in public school support systems and limited access to services for families.

Aquino, who chairs the Senate Committee on Basic Education, said he will work with Senator Raffy Tulfo to craft measures addressing the shortage of facilities, funding, and specialized assistance for learners with disabilities.

Tulfo earlier pointed out the government’s insufficient support for children with disabilities, students with special needs, and their families.

“This issue deserves to be raised, and we will work hand-in-hand with the good senator as soon as we reconvene our committee when it comes to children with special needs and students with special needs,” Aquino said.

He noted that families continue to struggle with limited options in both public and private sectors.

Aquino cited findings from the Second Congressional Commission on Education, which reported that one in five students has a disability or special concern requiring appropriate intervention.

Despite this, Aquino said government allocations remain inadequate.

“When we compare the budget, infrastructure, and the government’s capacity to assist children with special needs, the gap is clear. Facilities remain insufficient,” he said.

He added that many families rely solely on government services due to financial constraints, while those willing to pay for private support often find that no such programs exist.

Aquino and Tulfo have called for a review of existing support mechanisms and the development of targeted solutions to ensure children with disabilities can access the services and education they require.