KABATAAN Partylist on Monday strongly opposed Senator Bam Aquino’s proposal to promote the voluntary opt-out policy under the Universal Access to Quality Tertiary Education Act (RA 10931). The measure would allow financially able students to waive their free tuition privilege to help supplement SUC budgets.

In a statement, Kabataan Partylist Rep. Atty. Renee Co said the government should instead recover stolen funds and fight corruption rather than ask students—regardless of economic standing—to shoulder tuition.

“Habulin natin ang mga nagnanakaw ng pondo ng bayan, hindi ang mga estudyante,” Co said.

“The government should not pass its responsibility of ensuring education to families, nor require students to prove they are poorer than others just to enjoy free education,” she added.

Co maintained that there are enough resources for free higher education if the government prioritizes education over debt payments, military spending, and other non-essential programs.

She cited Congress’ recent move to cover a three-year backlog in free tuition funding as proof that funds can be sourced when lawmakers act decisively.

Kabataan has long opposed the opt-out clause in RA 10931, warning it could pave the way for future tuition collection and budget cuts in SUCs.

Co said students from Tarlac State University reported being pressured to either pay tuition or voluntarily waive their free tuition to secure enrollment amid funding shortfalls.

“Some SUCs continue to impose school fees — from laboratory and dormitory expenses to food and facility charges — because of chronic underfunding and the push for universities to generate their own income,” she noted.

“Education is a right, not a privilege, no matter your economic status. It must remain free for all,” Co stressed.

Kabataan reiterated its call for higher education funding, passage of the DASURV Bill to provide affordable dorms, food, and facilities, and the removal of all miscellaneous fees to achieve genuinely free education.