SENATOR Robinhood Padilla has expressed strong support for a proposed measure aimed at expanding and enhancing the government’s voucher program for students enrolled in private schools.

Padilla co-sponsored and co-authored Senate Bill No. 1981, or the Basic Education Voucher Program Act, which seeks to improve access to quality education by strengthening financial assistance for learners in the private education sector.

“For a stronger level of education and a brighter future for every Filipino student, I wholeheartedly support Senate Bill No. 1981,” Padilla said.

The proposed legislation aims to reinforce the existing voucher system under Republic Act No. 6728, which provides government support to students and teachers in private education.

Under the measure, the government plans to expand educational opportunities for students who choose to study in private institutions, while also helping ease overcrowding in public schools and improve overall learning conditions.

Padilla emphasized that investing in education is vital to national development, noting that enhanced support mechanisms—such as the voucher program—can help ensure that more Filipino students gain access to better learning environments.

The bill forms part of broader legislative efforts to strengthen the country’s education system and extend support to both students and private educational institutions.