More than 2.3 million Filipino students are now studying in college without paying tuition. This is all thanks to the government’s Free Higher Education Program under the Universal Access to Quality Tertiary Education Act (RA 10931).
During a Senate hearing, CHED Chairperson Shirley Agrupis shared how this program has become one of the government’s biggest investments in education — a lifeline for millions of families who once thought college was out of reach.
But Agrupis explained that not every school qualifies. Out of 179 local universities and colleges across the country, only 101 institutions currently meet CHED’s quality standards to offer free tuition. These schools, along with state universities and colleges, make up the network serving millions of beneficiaries.
Aside from free tuition, another lifeline exists — the Tertiary Education Subsidy (TES). For the school year 2023–2024 alone, 713,000 students received this financial support. The subsidy helps those from low-income families identified through Listahanan, 4Ps, and students from provinces with no public universities.
What’s more, private schools in underserved areas are also being supported — because, as Agrupis emphasized, “no student should be left behind.”
CHED also revealed some positive trends. Enrollment in private colleges still leads overall, but more students are now pursuing critical fields like agriculture, fisheries, veterinary studies, and natural sciences — courses vital for food security and national progress.
Graduation numbers are also rising. From just 277,000 graduates in 2020–2021, the figure soared to 805,000 in 2023–2024. But Agrupis reminded everyone that it’s not just about producing graduates. It’s about producing graduates with the heart to serve the nation.
Today, student participation in higher education has climbed to 68.12%, making the Philippines second only to Singapore in the ASEAN region.
Still, challenges remain. CHED manages a massive system — 5.2 million students, nearly 2,000 schools, and 9,000 degree programs nationwide. Yet the commission only has about 700 regular staff, supported by contract workers.
Agrupis admitted the system is far from perfect. Issues like a fragmented education structure, weak workforce data, and an outdated organizational setup continue to weigh down progress. But CHED is now working on a strategic plan to face these challenges head-on.
For millions of Filipino students and families, free college is more than a program — it’s a dream finally within reach.
