Senator Mark Villar pushes ₱30K 'BTS' tech subsidy for Filipino students

Senator Mark Villar recently filed Senate Bill No. 2048, also known as the “Boosted Technology Subsidy (BTS) for Students and Learners Act,” aimed at expanding digital access for Filipino students and improve their readiness for technology-driven education.

The proposed measure aims to support learners enrolled in public schools, State Universities and Colleges, Alternative Learning System programs, and other recognized education pathways by providing them with essential access to digital devices, internet connectivity, and emerging technologies.

Under this initiative, qualified students may receive subsidies of up to ₱30,000 for gadgets, as well as pocket Wi-Fi devices and monthly internet allowances during the school term.

The program also provides support for subscriptions to Artificial Intelligence tools to assist with research and academic work.

The proposal is aligned with findings from the Second Congressional Commission on Education, which highlighted ongoing gaps in digital infrastructure and limited access to devices and software, particularly among students from low-income families.

“This is an investment in our youth and in the future of our country. By making digital learning accessible to all, we are strengthening our education system and opening more opportunities for every Filipino learner.” Villar said.

“Sa pamamagitan ng panukalang ito, mas magiging handa at competitive ang ating mga mag-aaral. Hindi na nila kailangang manghiram ng gadget o lumabas pa sa kanilang mga bahay or paaralan para lamang makapag-research at makagamit ng internet, bibigyan din sila ng access sa mga AI tools para mas mapadali ang kanilang pag-aaral,” Villar said.

The bill includes safeguards to prevent the misuse of assistance. Specifically, any sale, lease, or transfer of subsidized devices or services prior to the completion of studies is declared invalid and will serve as grounds for disqualification from the program.

The initiative likewise encourages private sector participation through incentives provided under the Adopt-A-School Act of 1998. This allows companies to contribute devices and digital services to support students.

“Ito ang pangarap natin para sa susunod na henerasyon—isang digitally empowered, proficient, at tech-savvy na kabataan na gagamit ng teknolohiya upang iangat ang bansa at kapwa Pilipino,” Villar said.

-Paraluman News