President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. reaffirmed the administration’s unwavering commitment to the Universal Access to Quality Tertiary Education Act (UAQTEA) during the 58th Commencement Exercises of the Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila (PLM) held at the Philippine International Convention Center (PICC).
Addressing graduates, faculty, and key officials—including Manila City Mayor Francisco “Isko Moreno” Domagoso—President Marcos announced that the government’s expanded Free Higher Education program now directly benefits 2.62 million students nationwide.
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Holistic Educational Support: President Marcos stressed that educational access extends beyond university enrollment, emphasizing the need for comprehensive support systems to help students successfully earn their degrees regardless of economic background.
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Financial Assistance Programs: The administration continues to champion key initiatives like the Tertiary Education Subsidy, the Tulong Dunong Program, and the newly launched Bagong Pilipinas Merit Scholarship Program tailored for outstanding senior high school graduates.
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Strengthening Tech-Voc Pathways: Through collaborative efforts between the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) and the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA, the government is bolstering technical-vocational training as an equally vital route to stable employment and sustainable livelihoods.
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Honorary Degree Conferred: During the ceremony, PLM bestowed upon President Marcos its highest honorary distinction, the Doctor of Laws, Honoris Causa, in recognition of his leadership and support for accessible education. “Ito ang tunay na bunga ng edukasyong mas abot-kamay, de-kalidad, at nagbibigay sa bawat Pilipino ng pagkakataong makamit ang mas magandang kinabukasan,” President Marcos stated, highlighting the transformative power of quality and accessible education for Filipino families.
In his charge to the PLM Class of graduates, the President urged them to let wisdom guide their endeavors, measure their success by the lives they uplift, and remain steadfast in building a stronger, more compassionate nation.
