House Bill for private school students, teachers aid passes on 2nd reading

THE House of Representatives passed on second reading House Bill 11214, aimed at expanding the Private Basic Education Vouchers Assistance Act.

The bill seeks to repeal and replace various sections of Republic Act 8545, also known as the Expanded Government Assistance to Students and Teachers in Private Education (Gastpe) Act, which itself amended the earlier Republic Act 6728.

EDCOM 2 AT WORK Second Congressional Commission on Education Co-Chairman Rep. Roman Romulo EDCOM 2 PHOTO

The bill removes outdated provisions and integrates more dynamic, flexible approaches to funding and regulation of private education through vouchers.

Authored by Second Congressional Commission on Education (Edcom 2) Co-Chairman Rep. Roman Romulo, House Bill No. 11214 introduces a comprehensive voucher system aimed at aiding vulnerable and underprivileged students.

This government assistance in the form of educational vouchers enables some students to enroll in private schools, thereby helping to alleviate congestion in public schools.

By redistributing student populations, the measure not only enhances access to quality education but also addresses the critical issue of congestion in public schools.

The National Capital Region and Region 4-A are identified as the most congested, compelling some schools to operate in double or even triple shifts.

Furthermore, the Department of Education (DepEd) estimates a need for over 165,000 additional classrooms to effectively address this nationwide issue of overcrowding.

The expanded government assistance will be prioritizing students from the lowest five income deciles as identified by the Philippine Statistics Authority, targeting those from economically, as well as students in geographically isolated, disadvantaged, and conflict-affected areas.

"Expanding Gastpe is a step in alleviating congestion in our schools. By extending the voucher program to encompass kindergarten and elementary students, we are not only broadening access to educational opportunities but also reducing overcrowding in public schools, ensuring a more conducive learning environment for all," Romulo said.