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Marcos signs expanded aid law for tertiary and vocational students

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has signed into law amendments that broaden government financial support for college and vocational education students. The new legislation strengthens existing provisions guaranteeing free tuition and related school fees.

LSN Philippines · 4 September 2026

President Marcos Jr. signed Republic Act No. 12325 on Friday, amending the Universal Access to Quality Tertiary Education Act to extend assistance programs for students pursuing tertiary and vocational qualifications.

The new law builds upon the framework established by Republic Act No. 10931, which originally provided free tuition and other school fees for eligible students in public tertiary institutions. The amendments expand the scope and scale of government support available to a broader category of learners.

The legislation reflects the administration's commitment to improving accessibility to higher education and skills training across the Philippines. By widening the reach of aid programs, the law aims to reduce financial barriers that prevent students from completing tertiary and vocational studies.

The expanded assistance measures are expected to benefit thousands of Filipino students seeking to advance their education and professional qualifications in both academic and technical fields.