The Department of Education (DepEd) on Sunday defended its procurement of voice amplifiers for public school teachers, saying the devices are intended to provide immediate classroom support while the agency completes the acquisition of more than 250,000 laptops for educators nationwide.

Responding to criticism on social media, DepEd stressed that the two procurements are separate projects and should not be viewed as competing priorities.

DepEd explained that the laptop procurement requires a longer process because the agency must ensure the devices meet standards for performance, durability, battery life, warranty coverage and value for money. “The procurement process is nearly complete,” it said.

Some netizens questioned the purchase of voice amplifiers, arguing that schools should instead prioritize laptops, additional classrooms, internet connectivity and other educational needs.

DepEd said the amplifiers address an immediate concern faced by teachers who spend long hours speaking in crowded classrooms.