Marcos signs law expanding aid for college, vocational students

MANILA, Philippines — President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Friday signed into law amendments to the Universal Access to Quality Tertiary Education Act (UAQTEA), expanding government assistance for tertiary and vocational education students. The new law, which will be known as Republic Act No. 12325, strengthens RA No. 10931, which provides free tuition and other school fees. The amendments aim to broaden the scope of free tuition and other school fees, making tertiary and vocational education more accessible to a greater number of Filipino students. This move is expected to provide more opportunities for individuals, particularly those from economically disadvantaged backgrounds, to pursue higher education or acquire specialized skills. This initiative is seen as a long-term investment in human capital, contributing to the nation's economic development and potentially reducing the reliance on overseas employment for income generation, a significant aspect of the Philippine economy.