College education free at last
President Rody Duterte signed on Aug. 3 a new law providing free education for millions of students in public tertiary and vocational schools nationwide.
Senior Deputy Executive Secretary Menardo Guevarra said the president signed the bill into law despite opposition from his economic managers because he believes the law’s benefits outweigh its cost.
Now every deserving Filipino student may shout, “Free at last, free at last, thank President Duterte, college education is free at last.”
Republic Act 10931, the “Universal Access to Quality Tertiary Education Act,” gives free tuition for students in state universities and colleges (SUCs), local universities and colleges and staterun technical-vocational schools.
It also covers library, computer, laboratory, school ID, athletic, admission, development, guidance, handbook, entrance, cultural and other fees.
If the K+12 was geared towards high school grads eligible for work, this law recognizes the country’s need for college graduates and professionals.
Sen. Francis Escudero, Senate education committee head, said the law would be “one of the lasting legacies of Duterte’s presidency and administration.”
“This law occupies a place among landmark social legislations. If a teacher affects eternity, so does a president who removes obstacles to learning,” said Senate President Pro-Tempore Ralph Recto.
As Sen. Panfilo “Ping” Lacson said, “It only shows where President Duterte’s heart really is.”
Budget Secretary Benjamin Diokno is set to lead the committee that will craft its implementing rules and regulations (IRR).
Diokno said the law will be implemented in the first semester of academic year 2018-2019. But where will they get the money for free college tuition?
Senate President Pro-Tempore Ralph Recto said lawmakers will “liposuction the fat” from the proposed 2018 national budget and transform it into funds for state colleges.”
Sen. Francis Escudero said the law would be “one of the lasting legacies of Duterte’s presidency and administration”