ZAMBOANGA del Sur 2nd District Rep. Leonardo Babasa Jr. pushed a measure that will convert 15 national high schools in his district into National Science and Technology High School.

In pushing for House Bill 4294 or the proposed National Science and Technology High School Act, Babasa said the upgrading of these schools is crucial as the country aims to develop the countryside.

“Countryside development will remain a dream unless our national high school will be upgraded into science and technology high school geared toward producing technology oriented high schools,” the lawmaker said in his explanatory note.

House Bill 4294 mandates the upgrading of Damit National High School, Comprehensive National High School, Tigbao National High School, Kumalarang National High School,  Dumalinao National High School, Guipos National High School, San Pablo National High School, Betinan National High School, Lapuyan National High School, Torribiio Minor National High School, Kabatan National High School, Paulino National High School, Dinas National High School, Laureano Salusod National High School and Tabina National High School.

The measure also mandates the establishment of science laboratories in all science and technology high schools.

The fund for the operation of science and technology high schools shall be included in the budget of the Department of Education.