SENATOR JV Ejercito has filed a measure seeking to provide fresh graduates of Philippine tertiary institutions with a one-time cash grant of P5,000 to help ease their transition into the workforce.

Under Senate Bill No. 1961, or the proposed Fresh Graduates P5,000 One-Time Cash Grant Act of 2026, Ejercito emphasized that many graduates aspire to secure stable and decent employment but often face financial challenges at the start of their job search.

The senator noted that fresh graduates, who typically have limited financial resources, must shoulder various job application expenses. These include transportation costs, printing of résumés and supporting documents, and preparing appropriate attire for interviews.

Ejercito stressed that such expenses can add to the financial strain and pressure experienced by young job seekers as they begin their professional journey.

He explained that while the First Time Jobseekers Assistance Act already provides relief by waiving certain government fees, his proposed measure aims to go further by offering direct financial support through a one-time cash grant.

The proposed assistance is intended to help graduates cover essential job search expenses, enabling them to focus on improving their skills and securing meaningful employment.

Ejercito underscored that the measure not only recognizes the determination of young Filipinos to join and contribute to the labor force but also reflects the government’s commitment to easing the financial burden during their transition from education to employment.