SENATOR Bam Aquino has filed a measure seeking to rename the Tarlac Agricultural University (TAU) as the Tarlac Science, Technology, and Agricultural University to reflect its expanded academic scope and growing role as a hub for innovation, science, and technology in Central Luzon.

Senate Bill No. 1356 also reorganizes the university’s governing board, strengthens its curricular offerings, and amends Republic Act No. 10800—the 2016 law that converted the Tarlac College of Agriculture into TAU.

In his explanatory note, Aquino said the renaming recognizes TAU’s evolution from an agriculture-focused institution into a comprehensive state university offering programs in engineering, business, health sciences, education, veterinary medicine, and the arts and humanities.

The senator added that education is a powerful tool for uplifting lives and building stronger communities, and that this measure will ensure TAU’s continued leadership in advancing science-based learning and innovation in the region.

Under the proposed Tarlac Science, Technology, and Agricultural University Charter, the TSTAU will provide advanced instruction in agriculture, business, arts and humanities, engineering, science, technology, teacher education, and allied medical fields.

It will also expand its undergraduate, graduate, and post-graduate offerings, emphasizing agricultural modernization, scientific research, and technological innovation.

The university may continue to operate a laboratory school under its College of Education to strengthen teacher training.

The bill also reorganizes the university’s Board of Regents to include more representatives from science, health, and industry sectors.

Under the proposed structure, the board will include the CHED Chairperson as chair, the University President as vice chair, and regional directors from the Departments of Agriculture, Science and Technology, and Health, among others.

It also introduces a non-academic staff representative as a non-voting member and allows the reappointment of distinguished private sector representatives for another two-year term.

Aquino said the renaming and reforms aim to position TSTAU as a center of excellence in science, technology, health, and innovation — one that remains grounded in its agricultural heritage while embracing the challenges of a modern, knowledge-driven economy.