Tulfo files bill instituting ‘no collection policy’ in schools

Senator Raffy Tulfo filed a measure institutionalizing a policy that would prevent elementary and secondary public schools from collecting mandatory contributions from students.

Senate Bill 2440 seeks to eliminate the barriers that hinder the enrollment and retention of students through implementing a no-collection policy in public schools.

Tulfo lamented that public school students attending classes are mostly from the poorest of the poor families. He said burdening these students with required extra fees in schools would "only discourage them" from pursuing their studies.

In filing the bill, Tulfo said families with limited financial means will no longer face out-of-pocket costs associated with sending their children to school, thus promoting inclusivity and equal opportunities in education.

Under SB 2420, no fees shall be collected from school children enrolling in pre-school up to Grade 4, during the enrollment period and at any time during the school year.

For grade levels beyond Grade 4, no collection of any type should be undertaken during the enrollment period and the first month of classes. Starting on the second month, contributions for some memberships may be collected, but only on a voluntary basis, and should not be demanded, including Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts, and Red Cross memberships, among others.

Tulfo said his proposed legislation "is grounded in the recognition of the constitutional mandate for the provision of free public education" at the elementary and secondary levels.

He added that it aligns with the country's commitment to achieving the Education For All Plan 2015 and the Millennium Development Goals, particularly concerning primary school participation.