A LEGISLATIVE measure seeking to grant free postgraduate education to both public and private school teachers has been introduced in the House of Representatives, aiming to strengthen educators’ professional growth and elevate the overall quality of basic education in the country.

House Bill No. 6722, authored by Manila 4th District Representative Giselle Mary Maceda, proposes waiving tuition and miscellaneous fees for teachers pursuing master’s or doctoral degrees in State Colleges and Universities (SUCs) and Local Universities and Colleges (LUCs).

In the bill’s explanatory note, Maceda highlighted the heavy workloads and financial constraints that frequently prevent educators from advancing their academic qualifications.

She emphasized that the proposed law is anchored on Article XIV, Sections 4 and 5 of the 1987 Constitution, which mandate the State to promote the professional advancement of teachers and ensure that teaching attracts and retains top talent.

Beyond individual professional development, Maceda noted that the measure will yield long-term economic and social benefits by building a more competent workforce capable of better preparing students for higher education and the professional world.

Describing teachers as the backbone of the nation, the lawmaker urged sustained state investment in their continuous learning.

Under the bill’s eligibility provisions, active public and private school teachers who have rendered at least two consecutive years of service prior to application may avail of the tuition-free program, subject to the admission and retention standards of the participating higher education institutions.

House Bill No. 6722 was filed on December 9, 2025, and referred to the House Committee on Higher and Technical Education on December 10, 2025, where it remains pending.

For context on government funding for higher education programs, you can watch Free college education gets full funding in 2026 Budget. This video explains how the House and CHED secure budget allocations to keep state university programs fully supported.