ADVOCACY group Philippine Business for Education urged lawmakers on Wednesday to fast-track the passage of the Expanded Government Assistance to Students and Teachers in Private Education (E-GASTPE) and ensure learning continuity for senior high school students and to serve as a more sustainable solution to classroom congestion.

“The potential beneficiaries of E-GASTPE extend beyond the Grade 11 learners from State Universities and Colleges and Local Universities and Colleges that may be displaced to encompass numerous current and incoming senior high school students nationwide,” PBEd Executive Director Justine Raagas said.

Several bills (House Bill Nos. 928, 1723, 5589) have been filed in the Lower House which seeks to broaden the voucher system, encompassing 13 years of basic education, and offering support to students, teachers, and formal private basic education institutions.

“There has been a shortage of classrooms even before CHED (Commission on Higher Education) closed its doors to SHS students. Hence, it is high time to expand the voucher system. E-GASTPE will not just address the need for additional classrooms, but it will also focus on providing quality training for senior high students,” Raagas said.

CHED recently issued a memorandum stating that it will discontinue the SHS program in SUCs and LUCs starting this school year 2024-2025 since its engagement is limited only to the K-12 transition period from SY 2016-2017 to SY 2020-2021.

According to CHED, 53 out of 103 SUCs have stopped offering Grade 11, while 52 halted their Grade 12.

“By extending the voucher program, there is a potential to optimize the resources of private schools and we can alleviate congestion in public schools,” she added.

“E-GASTPE acknowledges the complementary roles of both public and private institutions in the education system and strengthening the collaboration between them will not only aid in curbing the learning crisis but also enhance the quality of education,” Raagas said.