SENATOR Joel Villanueva has called for accelerated education reforms and improvements in the overall student environment following Manila’s decline in the latest Quacquarelli Symonds (QS) Best Student Cities Rankings.

Villanueva said the city’s lower ranking is a sobering reminder that the country must move faster in strengthening not only its education system but also the conditions in which students study, live, and prepare for future employment.

The senator said the QS rankings show that becoming a top student city goes beyond having reputable colleges and universities. He noted that factors such as safety, quality of life, affordability, innovation, accessibility, and opportunities for students are equally important.

As chairperson of the Senate Committee on Higher, Technical and Vocational Education, Villanueva said the findings of the Second Congressional Commission on Education (EDCOM 2) underscore the urgent need to address persistent challenges, including learning gaps, weak foundational skills, learning poverty, and issues affecting graduate employability.

He said these concerns directly affect students’ overall educational experience and the country’s ability to compete with other education hubs in the region.

Villanueva also vowed to push for adequate funding for education as Congress prepares to deliberate on the proposed 2027 national budget next month.

He said lawmakers would advocate for sufficient allocations for education, research, and key reforms aimed at equipping Filipino students for future success.

According to the senator, creating an environment where students can thrive both inside and outside the classroom will require sustained investments in education, research, digital infrastructure, student support services, and stronger collaboration among government agencies, educational institutions, industry, and the private sector.