Free tuition in state colleges a signature away from becoming law

“We are happy to report some good news during these challenging times in our country,” Aquino, who sponsored and co-authored the measure said. (Photo: Philippine News Agency)

MANILA— Free higher education for state universities and colleges (SUCs) is only a signature away from becoming a law, Sen. Paolo Benigno Aquino IV said Monday.

Aquino made this statement after the bill which seeks to provide free tuition to SUCs or the Universal Access to Quality Tertiary Education Act passed the bicameral process which consolidated both Senate and House versions of the measure.

After the final version is ratified by both Houses, it will be transmitted to Malacanang for the President’s approval.

“We are happy to report some good news during these challenging times in our country,” Aquino, who sponsored and co-authored the measure said.

“This will make tuition and other fees in our SUCs free. It will provide billions of scholarships and loans to students in private higher education institutions,” he added.

Aquino, former chair of the Senate Committee on Education, Arts and Culture, said that he became a legislator to spearhead reforms that will help Filipinos “reach their hopes and dreams.”

“I am very proud to have pushed for this major reform as the main sponsor and co-author in the Senate,” Aquino said. “Let’s give every Filipino access to quality education — from kinder to college.”

He meanwhile, expressed gratitude to all legislators, stakeholders and supporters that contributed to the measure.