BY PRINCE GOLEZ
Manila Reporter
MANILA – A legislator’s “Iskolar ng Bayan” bill is seen to benefit more than 6,000 students in Western Visayas.
The measure compels state universities and colleges to grant scholarships to public school students in the Top 10 of their respective graduating classes.
Under Senate Bill 2275 authored by Senate Majority Leader Alan Peter Cayetano, student-beneficiaries will no longer pay tuition and miscellaneous fees.
“Let us show the youth that they are still our number one priority by approving measures like the Iskolar ng Bayan bill; measures that directly address the Filipinos’ daily problems,” said Cayetano.
Education should be made accessible to all because “quality education is a right, not a privilege, even at the tertiary level,” added Cayetano.
Latest data from the Department of Education showed close to 650 public high schools in Region 6.
One hundred ninety-seven of the total number are located in Iloilo province alone, said the department.
“That is roughly 1,970 students in the province – or 6,480 students in the entire region – who are sure of going to college if this measure is made into law. That means 6,480 families in Western Visayas will have a chance of waking up to a better future,” said Cayetano.
Late last month, his “Iskolar ng Bayan” bill was approved on third and final reading by the Senate.
Sen. Pia Cayetano, in sponsoring the bill, said it will inspire high school students “to work hard and “excel” in school.
It also allows deserving but underprivileged students “to complete their college education,” she added.
“These gifted and hardworking youth are meaningful investments not only for our SUCs, but for the nation as a whole,” the senator said./PN
