The Department of Education (DepEd), under the leadership of Education Secretary Sonny Angara, has released the guidelines for the pilot implementation of the Government Assistance and Subsidies–Training and Upgrading Knowledge for Learners, Teachers, and Achievers in Schools (GAS-TUKLAS) Program for School Year 2026–2027.
Backed by ₱100.8 million under the Fiscal Year 2026 General Appropriations Act, the program provides financial assistance to eligible learners and teacher-coaches participating in DepEd-endorsed or DepEd-acknowledged national and international competitions.
“Naniniwala si Pangulong Bongbong Marcos na hindi natin dapat hinahayaang maiwan ang alinmang talento dahil lamang sa kawalan ng suporta. Sa pamamagitan ng GAS-TUKLAS, nilalayon nating bawasan ang pasanin ng ating learners at teacher-coaches upang makatutok sila sa pagpapahusay at paghahatid ng karangalan sa bansa,” Secretary Angara said.
The program covers learners from public and private elementary and secondary schools, participants under DepEd-recognized Alternative Learning System (ALS) learning delivery modalities, and officially designated teacher-coaches who provide direct coaching and training. Priority will be given to learners and teacher-coaches from low-income households.
GAS-TUKLAS supports participation in both individual and team competitions across academic, sports, creative, cultural, and other interdisciplinary fields. Subject to government rules, fund availability, and approval, the assistance may cover registration fees, training and preparation expenses, travel costs, and boarding and lodging. The amount granted will depend on competition requirements, allowable expenses, and available funds.
Applications are open throughout School Year 2026–2027. Interested learners and teacher-coaches must submit their requirements to their respective School Heads at least 45 working days before the scheduled competition.
Applications will undergo evaluation and endorsement at the school, Schools Division Office, and Regional Office levels before final validation and approval by the DepEd Central Office through the Government Assistance and Subsidies Service (GASS).
DepEd will regularly publish and update the list of endorsed and acknowledged competitions on its official website. Competitions not yet included may still be submitted to GASS for evaluation.
Through the pilot implementation, DepEd aims to gather implementation data, policy insights, and operational evidence to refine the program and guide decisions on its possible nationwide expansion, ensuring greater support for Filipino learners and teacher-coaches competing on national and international stages.
