(UPDATE) The Senate on Wednesday ratified the reconciled version of the proposed No Permit, No Exam Prohibition Act, recognizing that forcing a student to forfeit an exam is the “cruelest of fines.”
The bicameral conference committee, on Monday, consolidated Senate Bill (SB) 1359 and House Bills 6483 and 7584, which aim to ban the “no permit, no exam” rule. This rule has been a long-standing practice in educational institutions, requiring students to settle all financial or property obligations, such as unpaid tuition and other school fees, before being allowed to take examinations or any form of educational assessment.
Presenting the reconciled bill, Sen. Francis “Chiz” Escudero, Chairman of the Committee on Higher, Technical, and Vocational Education, emphasized that the no permit, no exam rule can have life-changing consequences for students, and not in a positive way. He stated, “It can lead to shattered dreams and lost opportunities, not just the loss of a diploma.”
Escudero assured the Senate that the bicameral conference committee received full support from representatives of the education sector, led by the Coordinating Council of Private Educational Associations. He expressed his belief that the “No Permit, No Exam Prohibition Act” will be a significant legacy, finally putting an end to this long-standing practice.
The ratified measure now prohibits the imposition of any policy that prevents students, whether enrolled in public or private schools, from taking examinations or any form of educational assessment due to financial or property obligations. This includes unpaid tuition and other school fees.
However, Escudero clarified that the bill does not mandate “tuition forgiveness.” It does not erase a student’s debt to schools but instead calls for the deferment of payment while allowing the student to take the examination. This provision ensures that students are not deprived of their right to quality education due to poverty or other forces beyond their control.
Sen. Jose “Jinggoy” Estrada echoed the sentiment, emphasizing that students’ inability to pay tuition and other fees should never hinder the completion of their education. The No Permit, No Exam Prohibition Act aims to create an environment where students can focus on their studies without the added burden of financial stress.
This legislation is a significant step towards promoting equal access to education and empowering students to pursue their academic goals. By removing the barrier of unpaid fees, students can now fully engage in their studies, confident that their educational opportunities will not be compromised.
It is important to note that this law does not absolve students from their financial responsibilities but provides a temporary solution that prioritizes their right to education. Schools can still collect the outstanding fees, ensuring that the educational institutions can continue to operate effectively.
With the ratification of the No Permit, No Exam Prohibition Act, the Philippines takes a significant stride towards a more inclusive and equitable education system. This legislation sends a clear message that every student, regardless of their financial circumstances, deserves the opportunity to succeed academically and build a better future.
The Senate’s unanimous support for this bill reflects their commitment to prioritize the welfare and development of the Filipino youth. By recognizing the detrimental impact of the “no permit, no exam” rule, the government takes a proactive stance in ensuring that students are not unjustly penalized for financial constraints.
As the No Permit, No Exam Prohibition Act comes into effect, it is crucial for educational institutions, students, and their families to familiarize themselves with the new regulations. By embracing this change, we can collectively work towards a more inclusive and accessible education system that empowers students to reach their full potential.
Source: The Manila Times
