By Vergel Labesig

MANILA — President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has approved the augmentation of the Commission on Higher Education’s (CHED) fund to support the continued implementation of Free Higher Education in CHED-recognized local universities and colleges (LUCs).

The President authorized the use of ₱577,122,033.08 to address a funding deficiency in reimbursements for the Free Higher Education program for LUCs.

This augmentation follows the recommendation of the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) dated March 13, 2025, as well as representations made by CHED.

“Of all state expenditures, education delivers the best dividends. This administration remains committed to the continued provision of free tertiary education in public universities and colleges for qualified students, as provided under the Universal Access to Quality Tertiary Education Act,” President Marcos Jr. said during the first National Higher Education Summit.

“We thank the President for approving our request to augment the funding for the Free Higher Education program under UAQTEA, as part of the continuing appropriations of the FY 2024 General Appropriations Act or RA 11975. We also thank DBM Secretary Amenah Pangandaman for endorsing the Commission’s request. This is a testament that the national government considers higher education a priority and is committed to ensuring the continued delivery of free tertiary education,” said CHED Chairperson Prospero De Vera III.

“Consistent with this administration’s assurance to sustain the Free Higher Education program, CHED—through UniFAST—remains on track in delivering its commitment to accessible and equitable higher education for all Filipinos,” he added.

This funding realignment is in accordance with Republic Act 10931, or the UAQTEA, which mandates free tuition and other school fees for Filipino students enrolled in CHED-recognized LUCs, implemented through the UniFAST Secretariat.

The augmentation will cover tuition and 13 other school fees for over 350,000 tertiary-level students enrolled in LUCs.

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