According to philippinecollegian.org, the University of the Philippines (all 8 UP schools) and other state universities and colleges are set to receive free tuition in academic year 2017 to 2018. This is all thanks to a reallocation of P8 billion for tuition fees from funds intially for ARMM (Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao).
The Congress ratified the General Appropriations Bill on December 13 and 14 for the national budget of P3.35 trillion.
However, miscellaneous payment will still be collected, which will be covered under other programs. The Expanded Students’ Grants in Aid Program for Poverty Alleviation will shoulder those under Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program. Others may resort to Student Financial Assistance Programs (StuFAPs).
What may have led to this was stated by Student Regent Raoul Danniel Manuel, “This is a product of the resolve of the youth, led by progressive organizations and formations, to not undermine our capacity to act as one and go beyond perceived limits in order to fight for what is right.”
The 2017 budget will be the first law to be implemented upon signing this year.
Here’s to new beginnings. What are your thoughts?
