Student leaders gathered at the University of the Philippines to vehemently express their opposition to the proposal aimed at restricting or abolishing the policy of providing free education.
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They symbolized their strong dissent during the protest rally by encircling a large placard with lighted candles adorned with the message “FIGHT FOR FREE EDUCATION FOR ALL.”
In response to this, Finance Secretary Benjamin Diokno offered clarification regarding eligibility criteria, proposing a comprehensive examination as a means to determine who qualifies for the benefits of the Commission on Higher Education program on free education.
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(CHED) Chairman Prospera de Vera III defended the free college tuition initiative as he reiterated that it is a valuable investment of state funds. (Benjie Cuaresma/AI/MNM)