PARAÑAQUE City 2nd District Representative Joy Myra Tambunting has filed a measure mandating the establishment of Math and Science High Schools in underserved areas.

In her House Bill 10402 or the proposed Equitable Access to Math and Science Education Act, Tambunting stressed that the State shall work with local government units to eliminate barriers that restrict the access of qualified students to math and science education.

“Science, technology, engineering and mathematics play a key role in an economy’s growth and stability. STEM education creates critical thinkers, increases science literacy, and enables the next generation of innovators,” Tambunting said in her explanatory note.

The measure covers all provinces which do not have at least one public Math and Science High School.

Under the bill, the schools will be established through the construction of new facilities or the conversion and/or reorganization of an existing school, or the renovation and re-opening of currently non-operational school facilities or other idle government-owned property.

The schools to be established shall be operated by the Department of Education, with the proper participation of the applicable LGUs and other community shareholders.

The schools shall accept applicants based on the results of a competitive entrance examination.

The measure also mandates graduates of the schools to enroll in a four or five-year Bachelor’s Degree in Science program at an accredited college or university.