Villar seeks passage of open learning and distance education bill

Sen. Cynthia Villar (Senate Minority Leader Juan Ponce Enrile in the background). Photo from Villar’s Facebook page.

MANILA — Senator Cynthia Villar sought for the passage of a bill that will provide a flexible system of education and reduce the number of schools’ dropout rates.

Senate Bill 2274 or the “Open Learning and Distance Education Act of 2014” was con-sponsored Wednesday, by Villar before the Congress adjourned. 

The bill will enable students to attend classes at home or in the workplace with the use of modules, email, chat and video conference.

Villar, dismayed by the increasing number of school dropouts said that the bill will not only decrease the number of out-of-school youths but will also combat unemployment.

“That trend came about because a large number of Filipino families cannot afford to send their children to college the traditional way,” Villar said.

As many students are quitting school to look for jobs and help their family, the bill will help them balance work and studies at the same time.

“Open learning and distance education will decrease the number of dropouts and out-of-school youths. It will also address unemployment,” she said.

The proposed distance education will still follow a curriculum similar to that of the traditional learning experience, only that the lessons could be taken at the students’ preferred studying area.

“Open learning and distance education could well serve as effective engines to develop our people and nation,” she said.

With reports from Philippine Star