To enhance Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) education in the country, Senator Win Gatchalian is proposing the expansion of the Philippine Science High School (PSHS) System.
The Expanded Philippine Science High School (PSHS) System Act (Senate Bill No. 2974), which Gatchalian co-authored and co-sponsored, provides for the establishment of a PSHS System under the administrative supervision of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST).
There shall be a maximum of two PSHS campuses in each administrative region of the country except for the National Capital Region (NCR), where the PSHS Main Campus is located. Only one PSHS campus may be established, however, per province.
“5,807 qualified students were unable to pursue their studies in the PSHS System over the past three years due to the unavailability of slots.”
The lack of available slots in the PSHS System results in the rejection of qualified students. According to the Second Congressional Commission on Education’s (EDCOM II) Year Two Report, 5,807 qualified students were unable to pursue their studies in the PSHS System over the past three years due to the unavailability of slots.
To date, there are 16 existing campuses under the PSHS System. Under the proposed measure, the PSHS System shall offer secondary education to qualified Grade 7 to 12 students on a scholarship basis.
“Nais nating tiyakin na maaabot natin ang mga kwalipikadong mag-aaral na magsusulong ng inobasyon sa ating bansa.”
“Napapanahon ang pagpapalawak natin sa Philippine Science High School System, lalo na’t gusto nating mabigyan ang mas maraming kabataan ng pagkakataong makatanggap ng dekalidad na STEM education. Nais nating tiyakin na maaabot natin ang mga kwalipikadong mag-aaral na magsusulong ng inobasyon sa ating bansa,” said Gatchalian, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Basic Education.
The proposed measure also provided that fifteen years after its effectivity as a law, the PSHS Board of Trustees may establish additional campuses subject to a comprehensive review based on need or demand, and in accordance with other criteria determined by the Board.
The Secretary of Science and Technology shall serve as the Board’s Chairperson, while the Secretary of Education shall serve as Vice-Chairperson.
