SENATOR Christopher ‘Bong’ Go stressed the need to expand the coverage of tertiary education subsidy by amending Republic Act No. 10931 or the Universal Access To Quality Tertiary Education Act.

Go co-sponsored Senate Bill No. 1360 principally authored by Senator Ramon Revilla Jr.

The senator noted the existing law, passed during the administration of former president Duterte, aimed to provide free education to all Filipinos, especially to those who cannot afford to pay for higher education.

“Last year, an estimated 1.6 million poor Filipino students are in school without the need to pay for tuition and miscellaneous fees because of this beneficial act,” said Go.

While the senator acknowledged the success of the law, he stressed the need to expand and make it more inclusive for academically competent students who wish to study in private institutions.

The senator believes this will provide qualified Filipino students with more options and opportunities to pursue their desired courses in institutions that best fit their needs.

Moreover, Go emphasized the expansion of TES (grant-in program) will benefit the country as a whole, stressing it ensures more students can access higher education and produced for the country a more skilled and educated workforce, which can boost economic growth and development.

The proposed legislation seeks to extend the coverage of TES through a voucher system, enabling more students to afford tertiary education and complete their chosen programs.

Go highlighted the importance of education, stating that ensuring the education of the youth is critical to providing them with a better future.

“Ang edukasyon ang tanging puhunan natin sa mundong ito. Kaya sisiguraduhin nating makakapagtapos ng pag-aaral ang ating mga anak upang magkaroon ng mas maginhawang kinabukasan,” said Go.