A measure seeking to provide free Master’s degree tuition for government employees in state universities and colleges (SUCs) is gaining attention in Congress as lawmakers push for greater access to advanced education within the civil service.
House Bill 5847, also known as the proposed “Government Employees Free Master’s Degree Tuition Act,” aims to allow qualified state workers to pursue graduate studies without paying tuition fees for up to two years.
The proposal has already been refiled in the House of Representatives and is currently awaiting deliberation by the Committee on Higher and Technical Education.
A counterpart measure, Senate Bill 2099 filed by Senator Loren Legarda, has likewise been introduced in the Senate.
Under the proposed legislation, government employees who have rendered at least five years of service may apply for the tuition benefit, provided they pass the admission requirements and examinations of their chosen SUC.
The bill, filed by Zambales Rep. Doris Maniquiz, specifies that the assistance would cover tuition fees only and would not include miscellaneous or laboratory charges.
Supporters of the measure said the proposal seeks to strengthen the capability of the country’s workforce by giving public servants better opportunities for professional growth and higher education.
Through the bill, expanding access to graduate studies could help develop a more competitive, skilled, and efficient civil service sector capable of delivering improved public service.