MANILA, Philippines — President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Thursday announced the expansion of the country’s free higher education program, which now benefits 2.62 million students.
The president reiterated the government's commitment to the full and effective implementation of Republic Act 10931 or the Universal Access to Quality Tertiary Education Act (UAQTEA).
The UAQTEA makes college and technical training free in the Philippines, removing tuition and other school fees in public schools and gives financial aid to poor students.
The President said the government has launched the Bagong Pilipinas merit scholarship program for outstanding senior high school graduates pursuing priority degree programs.
Marcos made the remark in his speech during the 58th Commencement Exercises of the Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila (PLM) wherein the university conferred him with the highest honorary degree of Doctor of Laws, Honoris Causa.
"But access to education must mean more than entering a university. It must mean providing the students, regardless of circumstance, with the support needed to complete their education and realize the promise that a college degree can bring," the President said.
Marcos said he received the honor bestowed on him by the PLM "with gratitude, mindful of the responsibility that comes with it." He said the recognition affirms the principle that the Marcos administration shares with the PLM: that education must remain a pathway to opportunity, a catalyst for progress, and a cornerstone of nation-building.
The President said PLM also held a special place in his family as first lady Louise Araneta-Marcos once taught at its College of Law.
The president said, through the first lady’s years at PLM, “we came to know firsthand the university’s commitment to shaping future generations of Filipino professionals.” He said the PLM’s history stood as proof that talent was universal and potential can be found everywhere.
“I therefore accept this recognition with a renewed commitment to uphold the values that this university has long championed: Karunungan. Kaunlaran. Kadakilaan. Wisdom, Progress, and Greatness,” he said.
Among the guests at the event were Manila City Mayor Isko Moreno and other government officials.
