Manila: Senator Loren Legarda on Monday filed a bill seeking to institutionalize a nationwide PHP1,000 monthly allowance for all Filipino students from kindergarten to college, marking what she described as a 'long-term investment in the country's future.' Under the proposed National Student Allowance Program (NSAP) Act, all enrolled students who meet minimum attendance requirements will be entitled to a monthly subsidy aimed at covering basic school-related needs such as food, transportation, and supplies.

According to Philippines News Agency, this initiative is not merely a short-term relief measure but a foundational investment in the nation's present and future, as expressed by Legarda. The measure complements a counterpart bill filed in the House by her son, Rep. Leandro Legarda Leviste, reinforcing their shared commitment to accessible and inclusive education.

The intended allowance would be distributed through student ID cards or digital vouchers, redeemable only at accredited school canteens, transport providers, and school supply vendors. Additionally, the bill promotes digital financial inclusion by allowing the student card to function as a basic savings or e-wallet account.

"This allowance is specifically structured for school-related expenses," Legarda stated, emphasizing that the use of student cards or digital vouchers aims to eliminate corruption and ensure equitable distribution of assistance to every student in the country.

To ensure the program's sustainability, the Department of Finance will be responsible for developing a funding framework and conducting an actuarial study every five years. The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas, along with other implementing partners, will ensure service accessibility, particularly in remote and underserved areas.

If enacted, the program is expected to benefit more than 30 million students across the country.