SENATOR Risa Hontiveros has vowed to continue advocating for key youth-centered legislation, including measures aimed at protecting students and improving the welfare of interns, saying these proposals have long been sought by young Filipinos.

In an interview, Hontiveros said she intends to pursue the passage of the proposed Students’ Rights and Welfare Bill, which she described as a longstanding advocacy of student and youth groups nationwide.

“I plan to continue pushing for and hopefully passing long-standing bills like the Students’ Rights and Welfare Bill,” Hontiveros said, noting that the measure has been championed by students for many years.

The senator also underscored the need to pass the proposed Interns’ Rights and Welfare Act, which seeks to provide greater protection and support for student interns, particularly those balancing academic requirements with workplace training.

Under the proposed measure, student interns would be entitled to transportation assistance or allowances while undergoing internship programs in private companies and government offices.

Hontiveros argued that interns already contribute to the productivity of the organizations where they are assigned and should not be burdened with additional expenses related to their work.

She added that the bill would establish grievance mechanisms to ensure that interns have avenues to report concerns, workplace issues, or other difficulties and receive appropriate assistance and remedies.

According to Hontiveros, strengthening protections for students and interns is a crucial step toward promoting youth welfare and ensuring that educational and training opportunities remain accessible, safe, and supportive for young Filipinos.