The Senate has approved on third reading a bill seeking to expand government subsidies for poor college students.
The measure, authored by Senate President Pro Tempore Loren Legarda, aims to strengthen the Tertiary Education Subsidy (TES) under the Universal Access to Quality Tertiary Education Act.
Under the bill, students from low-income households and vulnerable sectors will be prioritized in the distribution of financial assistance.
The proposed expanded subsidy will cover expenses such as books, school supplies, transportation, laptops, and room and board.
Nursing and allied health students may also receive assistance for internship and training fees.
Included among the priority beneficiaries are students from 4Ps families, persons with disabilities, indigenous peoples, solo parents and their dependents, and learners from remote areas.
Legarda said the bill addresses gaps in existing student assistance programs, particularly for students struggling with daily school expenses.IMT
