THE HOUSE Committee on Basic Education and Culture has approved measure providing education pathways for basic education students.

The panel headed by Pasig City Rep. Roman Romulo agreed to endorse for plenary deliberations House Bill 7893.

The bill declares that the State shall ensure opportunities for Filipinos, regardless of age, background, ethnicity, disability, and association, to attain their maximum potential and enhance their employability by establishing inclusive education pathways that empower and equip learners with the competencies that are necessary for college or employment.

The bill provides that students who complete Junior High School shall choose between two education pathways: the University Preparatory Program under the Department of Education or the Technical-Vocational Program under the Technical Education Skills Development Authority.

The DepEd shall develop and implement a comprehensive curriculum for Grades 11 and 12 that prepares students for admission to colleges and universities.

The TESDA and industry boards, partners, experts, and practitioners, including small and medium enterprises, shall develop and offer a variety of technical-vocational programs based on an industry-driven and industry-approved curriculum that is designed to equip students with practical skills and competencies that are at par with industry standards.

Among the authors of the bill are Romulo and former president now Pampanga Rep. Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo.