Manila: Senator Mark Villar has filed a measure aimed at expanding digital access and expanding the tools they need to succeed in a technology-driven learning environment. Senate Bill 2048, or the Boosted Technology Subsidy (BTS) for Students and Learners Act, seeks to provide qualified beneficiaries enrolled in public schools, State Universities and Colleges, Alternative Learning Systems, and other recognized educational programs with access to essential digital devices, Internet connectivity, and emerging technologies.

According to Philippines News Agency, the initiative is in response to findings from the Second Congressional Commission on Education, 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 in a news release on Tuesday.

Under the proposed BTS Program, qualified beneficiaries will receive comprehensive support, including gadget subsidies of up to PHP30,000 per learner, connectivity assistance through a pocket Wi-Fi device, monthly Internet allowance during the academic term, and support for subscriptions to Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools to enhance research, learning, and academic performance. 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 before 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 (This is our aspiration for the next generation, a) digitally empowered, proficient and tech-savvy youth that will utilize technology to uplift the country and fellow Filipinos,' Villar said.