Matibag further explained that the law is a significant step towards achieving equal educational opportunities for all students, regardless of their financial background. She acknowledged that unpaid dues should not be a barrier to a student’s right to education and emphasized the importance of creating a supportive and inclusive learning environment.
The implementation of Republic Act 11984 is expected to bring about several positive changes in the education system. One of the key provisions of the law is that students will no longer require a permit to take their examinations, even if they have outstanding fees. This will prevent situations where students are singled out and embarrassed in front of their peers, as Matibag’s husband experienced.
Furthermore, the law takes into consideration the needs of schools and colleges. Matibag acknowledged that educational institutions rely on tuition fees to cover operational costs and teachers’ salaries. Therefore, the law includes safeguards and provisions to ensure that schools are not unduly burdened by unpaid dues. This balanced approach aims to protect the interests of both students and school administrators, ensuring that neither party is at a disadvantage.
Matibag expressed her gratitude to President Marcos for signing the law, stating that it is the culmination of her campaign to provide every student with a fair chance to study and take their exams. She believes that this law will pave the way for a more inclusive and equitable education system, where no student is left behind due to financial constraints.
In conclusion, the newly signed law prohibiting schools from barring students with unpaid dues from taking their examinations is a significant step towards equal educational opportunities. It addresses the personal experiences of individuals like Matibag’s husband and aims to create a supportive and inclusive learning environment for all students. With the inclusion of safeguards and provisions, the law strikes a balance between the needs of students and school administrators. Matibag’s campaign for this law has finally come to fruition, and she is optimistic that it will bring about positive changes in the education system, ensuring that no student is denied their right to education due to financial constraints.
Defining “Indigents” and Ensuring Flexibility in Determining Eligibility
Meanwhile, House Committee on Basic Education and Culture Chairman, Pasig Representative Roman Romulo, expressed concern about the definition of “indigents” as stated in the law. He emphasized the need for flexibility in determining who qualifies for assistance or help from both national and local government agencies.
“It would be very unfair if the law determined who would be defined as ‘indigents’ as the parameters would be on a case-to-case basis. Our agencies should have flexibility, whether national or local, to tell who is their disadvantaged student to receive assistance or help from both national and local government,” Romulo stated during the “Bagong Pilipinas” forum on Wednesday.
Romulo’s concern stems from the understanding that a rigid definition of “indigents” may exclude certain individuals who are in need of assistance but do not fit the predetermined criteria. This inflexibility could result in the exclusion of vulnerable populations, such as those living in extreme poverty or facing significant financial hardships due to unforeseen circumstances.
By allowing for flexibility in determining eligibility, government agencies can better assess the unique circumstances of each individual and provide targeted support where it is most needed. This approach recognizes that the concept of indigence is not static and can vary greatly depending on factors such as location, family size, and economic conditions.
Moreover, flexibility in determining eligibility ensures that assistance programs are inclusive and responsive to the evolving needs of the community. It allows for a more nuanced understanding of poverty and enables the government to adapt its support mechanisms accordingly.
For instance, a family that may not meet the strict income requirements to be classified as indigent according to the law, but is still struggling to make ends meet due to high medical expenses, should not be excluded from receiving assistance. By considering their specific circumstances and exercising flexibility in eligibility determination, government agencies can ensure that no one falls through the cracks and that support reaches those who need it most.
Romulo’s call for flexibility echoes the larger goal of creating a comprehensive and inclusive social welfare system that addresses the diverse needs of the population. By recognizing the limitations of a one-size-fits-all approach, policymakers can work towards developing policies that are responsive, equitable, and effective in uplifting the most vulnerable members of society.
Ensuring a Balanced Approach in the Implementation of the Law
Social Welfare Undersecretary Eduardo Punay assured the public that the IRR will balance the interests of both students and private institutions, many of whom are still recovering from the COVID-19 pandemic.
The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), alongside the Department of Education, the Commission on Higher Education, and the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority, will collaborate in crafting the implementing rules and regulations of the law within 60 days after its publication.
This collaborative effort aims to address the concerns of both students and private institutions, considering the financial challenges faced by schools during these unprecedented times.
By implementing this law, the government aims to bridge the gap between financially disadvantaged students and their access to education. It recognizes the importance of equal opportunities for all students, regardless of their financial background.
With the assurance of safeguards and provisions for both students and schools, the law seeks to strike a balance that benefits all parties involved. It is a step towards creating a fair and inclusive educational system that empowers every student to pursue their dreams and reach their full potential.
Furthermore, the collaborative effort in crafting the implementing rules and regulations reflects the government’s commitment to transparency and inclusivity. The involvement of various government agencies ensures that different perspectives and expertise are taken into account, resulting in a more comprehensive and well-rounded set of guidelines.
During the crafting process, the needs and concerns of both students and private institutions will be thoroughly considered. The aim is to find practical solutions that address the financial challenges faced by schools while also ensuring that students from all walks of life have access to quality education.
One of the key considerations is the allocation of resources. The government recognizes that private institutions play a vital role in the education sector, and their financial stability is crucial for the overall well-being of the system. Therefore, the IRR will include measures to support private institutions and help them recover from the economic impact of the pandemic.
At the same time, the IRR will also prioritize the needs of students, especially those from disadvantaged backgrounds. Scholarships, grants, and other forms of financial assistance will be made available to ensure that no student is left behind due to financial constraints.
Additionally, the IRR will address concerns regarding the quality of education. It will outline standards and guidelines to ensure that students receive a high-quality education, regardless of whether they are enrolled in public or private institutions. This will help level the playing field and promote equal opportunities for all students.
Overall, the collaborative effort in crafting the IRR demonstrates the government’s commitment to finding a balanced approach that takes into account the interests of both students and private institutions. By striking this balance, the government aims to create an educational system that is fair, inclusive, and responsive to the needs of all stakeholders.
Source: The Manila Times
