Senator Mark Villar has filed Senate Bill No. 2048, or the “Boosted Technology Subsidy (BTS) for Students and Learners Act,” to expand digital access for Filipino students through gadgets, internet support, and tech tools.
The measure covers learners in public schools, State Universities and Colleges, Alternative Learning Systems, and other recognized programs, following findings of EDCOM 2 on gaps in digital infrastructure and access, especially among low-income students.
“This is an investment in our youth and in the future of our country. By making digital learning accessible to all, we are strengthening our education system and opening more opportunities for every Filipino learner,” said Villar.
Under the proposal, qualified beneficiaries may get up to P30,000 in gadget subsidies, pocket Wi-Fi devices, monthly internet allowance, and access to AI tools to boost learning and research.
The bill also bars selling or transferring subsidized benefits before completing studies, with violators facing disqualification. It likewise encourages private firms to donate devices and services through incentives under the Adopt-A-School program.
“Ito ang pangarap natin para sa susunod na henerasyon—isang digitally empowered, proficient, at tech-savvy na kabataan na gagamit ng teknolohiya upang iangat ang bansa at kapwa Pilipino,” added Villar.IMT
