The Department of Budget and Management (DBM) has released P3.41 billion to fund the Universal Access to Quality Tertiary Education (UAQTE) Act, granting nearly 75,000 students free college education in 2024.
Its corresponding Notice of Cash Allocation (NCA) in the amount of P1.77 billion for the first quarter of 2024 was also released.
“Not everyone may be able to afford higher education. But I believe
this should not be the case, most especially to those who are deserving— those who have the heart and passion to learn and who wishes to put their talent and intelligence for the greater good,” DBM Secretary Amenah F. Pangandaman said.
“Education, more than a privilege, is a basic human right. It is our gateway for better career paths, higher salaries, and an overall improved quality of life,” she added.
Approximately 74,262 learners for the UAQTE program for the school year 2024 will benefit from the allocated P3.41 billion fund, which covers tuition and miscellaneous fees, accident insurance, trainee provision, internet allowance, starter tool kits, national assessment fees, and other school charges.
Otherwise known as Republic Act 10931, the UAQTE is a law that formalizes zero-cost education and waivers of additional charges in state universities and colleges (SUCs) as well as local universities and colleges (LUCs). It e visions financial aid for private higher education institutions, to provide less privileged Filipinos better opportunities to pursue college degrees.
The UAQTE is among the many government initiatives that correlate with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s Bagong Pilipinas campaign, which pushes for a well-trained workforce and expanded opportunities for Filipinos.
The fund release was approved by Pangandaman on January 26, 2024, chargeable against DOLE-TESDA’s regular budget under the fiscal year 2024 General Appropriations Act (GAA).