Baguio mulls free school kits

BAGUIO CITY — In a bid to ease the financial burden on low-income families, the Baguio City government is considering a proposed ordinance that would provide free school supplies to indigent students in the city’s public schools.

The measure, introduced by City Councilor Vladimir Cayabas, aims to promote equitable access to education by ensuring that qualified students receive essential learning materials.

Titled “An Ordinance Providing School Supplies to Qualified Indigent Students in Basic Education in the City of Baguio,” the proposal has already received widespread support. Residents like Cymon Reyes say the measure could make a real difference:

“If this ordinance is enacted, it will be a great help to families in Baguio, especially those facing financial challenges,” Reyes said.

Cayabas, who chairs the City Council’s Committee on Education, Creativity, ICT and Historical Research, said the ordinance seeks to benefit “qualified and deserving students,” in line with the 1987 Constitution and Republic Act 10533 or the Enhanced Basic Education Act of 2013.

While public education is legally free, Cayabas pointed out that non-tuition expenses — such as school supplies and learning materials — still pose a barrier for many families.

“There is a need to bridge the gap between existing efforts in providing quality education not just through infrastructure and conducive learning spaces, but also by offering material and miscellaneous subsidies to reduce the overall cost of schooling,” he emphasized.

The ordinance initially proposes an allocation of P3 million, with plans to expand it to a P10 million regular fund in future budget cycles. This phased funding approach is intended to make the program sustainable and scalable over time.