Senator Mark Villar has filed Senate Bill No. 2048, or the “Boosted Technology Subsidy (BTS) for Students and Learners Act,” a measure aimed at expanding digital access and equipping Filipino students with the tools they need to succeed in a technology-driven learning environment.
The proposed measure seeks to provide qualified beneficiaries enrolled in public schools, State Universities and Colleges (SUCs), Alternative Learning Systems (ALS), and other recognized educational programs with access to essential digital devices, internet connectivity, and emerging technologies.
“This is an investment in our youth and in the future of our country.”
The initiative comes in response to findings from the Second Congressional Commission on Education (EDCOM 2), which highlighted persistent gaps in digital infrastructure and limited access to appropriate hardware and software—particularly affecting students from low-income households.
“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 proposed BTS Program, qualified beneficiaries will receive comprehensive support, including gadget subsidies of up to ₱30,000 per learner, connectivity assistance through a pocket Wi-Fi device and monthly internet allowance during the academic term, and support for subscriptions to Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools to enhance research, learning, and academic performance.
“Sa pamamagitan ng panukalang ito, mas magiging handa at competitive ang ating mga mag-aaral.”
“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,” the legislator said.
The bill also introduces safeguards to ensure proper use of the program’s benefits. Any sale, lease, or transfer of subsidized gadgets, internet subscriptions, or AI services prior to a student’s completion of studies will be deemed void and will result in disqualification from the program.
In addition, the measure encourages private sector participation through existing incentive mechanisms under the Adopt-A-School Act of 1998, allowing companies to support the initiative by donating devices and digital services to students in need.
“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,” the lawmaker concluded.
