The bicameral conference committee has approved the proposed Private Basic Education Voucher Program, bringing the government closer to expanding access to education and widening school options for Filipino learners.
House Speaker Faustino “Bojie” Dy III said the measure strengthens educational access by allowing more families to choose private basic education through a government-supported voucher system, while also reinforcing the role of private schools as partners in the education sector.
The bicameral panel approved the reconciled version of House Bill No. 4744 and Senate Bill No. 1981, aligning provisions from both chambers after the First Regular Session of the 20th Congress adjourned sine die.
“Education remains the best investment we can make for our country’s future,” Dy said. “By strengthening the voucher program, we are giving more Filipino families meaningful educational choices.”
He added that the measure ensures wider access to quality education regardless of economic status.
“Layunin ng panukalang ito na bigyan ng mas maraming pagpipilian ang mga magulang at mas maraming pagkakataon ang kanilang mga anak na makatanggap ng de-kalidad na edukasyon,” he said.
The House contingent was led by Committee on Basic Education and Culture Chairperson Rep. Roman Romulo, alongside Reps. Jude Acidre, Kenneth Gatchalian, Bernadette Escudero, and Chel Diokno. The Senate panel included Senators Bam Aquino and Camille Villar, with officials from the Department of Education.
House Bill 4744, approved earlier on third and final reading in October 2025, is among the LEDAC priority measures of the 20th Congress.
Dy said the reform is aimed at improving access and strengthening education systems for future generations.