Manila: Solid North Party-list Rep. Ching Bernos on Tuesday announced the Department of Budget and Management's release of PHP9.75 billion for state universities and colleges (SUCs) nationwide as 'a timely and much-needed infusion of funds.'

According to Philippines News Agency, the DBM recently allocated PHP9.75 billion to the Commission on Higher Education for 108 SUCs across the country. This funding is intended to cover costs previously incurred during the implementation of the Free Higher Education (FHE) program for the academic years 2022-2023, 2023-2024, and 2024-2025.

Bernos emphasized the positive impact of these funds, stating in a news release that they will aid SUCs in becoming more effective learning institutions and partners for the youth. The funds will alleviate the financial burden that SUCs have carried due to the FHE program's costs, allowing them to shift focus to pending or new initiatives aimed at student welfare.

The FHE Program, established under Republic Act 10931 or the Universal Access to Quality Tertiary Education Act, ensures free tuition and other school fees in SUCs and CHED-recognized local universities and colleges. The Commission on Higher Education will manage the distribution of these funds to the relevant SUCs through the Unified Student Financial Assistance System for Tertiary Education, as stated by the DBM.

Bernos, a member of the House committee on higher and technical education, highlighted that the funds' arrival would provide SUCs with 'more breathing room.' The expectation is that these funds will enable SUCs to enhance their academic and research programs, improve student services, upgrade facilities such as laboratories and libraries, and even rehabilitate their buildings and public spaces.