SENATOR Bam Aquino is pushing for a measure aimed at strengthening technical and vocational education in Northern Samar through the conversion of an existing school into a polytechnic institute.

Under Senate Bill No. 2145, Aquino proposed converting the Balicuatro College of Arts and Trades in Allen into the Northern Samar Polytechnic Institute under the supervision of the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority.

In the bill’s explanatory note, Aquino said the existing institution has already been providing accessible technical and vocational education to students and out-of-school youth in the province.

The proposed measure seeks to expand the school’s capacity to offer industry-aligned technical-vocational education programs, including diploma, certificate, and short-term training courses aimed at equipping learners with practical and employable skills.

The measure also aims to boost workforce development in Northern Samar by improving access to quality skills training and creating more opportunities for employment and local economic growth.

According to the proposal, the conversion would help strengthen the province’s education system and better prepare residents for the changing demands of the labor market.

Aquino urged support for the bill, stressing the importance of investing in education and skills development to widen opportunities for young Filipinos and communities in Northern Samar.