The Senate has approved on third and final reading a bill creating a nationwide private education voucher program aimed at easing classroom congestion, expanding access, and curbing corruption.
Senate Bill No. 1981, sponsored by Sen. Bam Aquino, passed with a 22–0 vote, moving closer to becoming law.
Aquino said the measure targets three key problems: overcrowded public schools, limited access, and corruption in existing programs.
The bill allows students—especially those in congested public schools—to use vouchers to enroll in private schools with available slots.
It also expands voucher coverage from Kindergarten to Grade 12 and consolidates all existing voucher programs under one law.
Priority beneficiaries include students from 4Ps families, GIDA areas, Indigenous Peoples, foster homes, and other vulnerable sectors, including learners with disabilities.
The measure also provides subsidies and support for participating private schools and teachers.
Stronger safeguards are included, with fines and possible jail time for fraud and abuse.IMT
