A bill filed by Mark Villar seeks to expand digital access for students, aiming to address persistent gaps in the country’s education infrastructure.
Senate Bill No. 2048, or the “Boosted Technology Subsidy (BTS) for Students and Learners Act,” proposes to provide learners in public schools, state universities and colleges, and alternative learning programs with devices, Internet access, and subscriptions to artificial intelligence (AI) tools.
The measure cites findings of the Second Congressional Commission on Education, which flagged continuing deficiencies in digital infrastructure and access to hardware, particularly among low-income students.
“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.
Under the proposal, qualified beneficiaries may receive gadget subsidies of up to ₱30,000, a pocket Wi-Fi device, a monthly Internet allowance during the academic term, and access to AI tools.
“Through this proposed measure, our students will become more prepared and competitive. They will no longer need to borrow gadgets or leave their homes or schools just to do research and access the Internet. They will also be given access to AI tools to make their studies easier,” Villar said.
The bill also penalizes the sale or transfer of subsidized devices and services before a student completes their studies.
It also seeks private sector participation through incentives under the Adopt-A-School Act of 1998, allowing companies to donate devices and digital services.
“This is our aspiration for the next generation — a digitally empowered, proficient, and tech-savvy youth who will use technology to uplift the country and their fellow Filipinos,” Villar said.
