DUMPER PTDA Party-list Rep. Claudine Diana Bautista-Lim is pushing for a 20-percent discount on educational electronic devices to make digital learning more affordable and ensure equal access to technology among Filipino students.

Under House Bill No. 11391, qualified students would be entitled to a 20-percent discount on the purchase of laptops, desktop computers, tablets, and other electronic devices intended for educational purposes.

In the bill’s explanatory note, Bautista-Lim emphasized that access to electronic devices has become essential in today’s digital learning environment, with students relying on technology for classroom instruction, research, online assessments, project preparation, and virtual collaboration.

However, she noted that the high cost of these devices remains a financial burden for many Filipino families, particularly those belonging to low- and middle-income households.

As a result, some students are forced to share electronic devices with other family members or rely on outdated equipment, potentially affecting their academic performance and learning opportunities.

The proposed measure seeks to reduce these financial barriers, promote digital inclusion, and help students participate more effectively in an increasingly technology-driven society.

The bill also envisions collaboration among educational institutions, government agencies, and accredited retailers to ensure the efficient and transparent implementation of the discount program and prevent possible fraud and abuse.

Bautista-Lim stressed that investing in students’ access to technology is an investment in the country’s human capital and long-term economic development.