Recognizing Senator Bam Aquino's role in the landmark Libreng Kolehiyo Law, which opened access to higher education for millions of Filipino students, the Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila (PLM) conferred him a Doctor of Education, Honoris Causa degree.

Aquino received the honorary degree on Wednesday, 29 October, during the PLM Graduation Ceremonies, where he also served as guest of honor and speaker.

“We award this in recognition of Senator Bam's meritorious contribution to the advancement of education in our country as a student, as a youth leader, and as a legislator-senator,” said Atty. Edward Serapio, chair of the PLM Board of Regents.

“Senator Aquino's public service is marked by a relentless focus on expanding access to quality education and strengthening the systems that sustain it,” Serapio added.

Aquino authored the Free Tuition in Higher Education law, which resulted in the signing of Republic Act No. 10931, or the Universal Access to Quality Tertiary Education Act. The law provides free tuition and other fees for students in state and local universities, colleges, and technical-vocational institutions.

Serapio said the landmark law “stands as a testament to his commitment to making higher education accessible to every Filipino who seeks to learn and contribute to society.”

This is Aquino’s second honorary doctorate, having previously received the same Doctor of Education, Honoris Causa distinction from Tarlac State University in 2017.

Recently, Aquino vowed to continue securing funding for the 3.5 million beneficiaries of the Libreng Kolehiyo Law in state universities and colleges (SUCs), local universities and colleges (LUCs), and private learning institutions under the 2026 national budget.

Currently, around 2.2 million students enrolled in SUCs and LUCs benefit directly from RA 10931, while 1.3 million students in private universities and colleges receive assistance through the Tertiary Education Subsidy and the Tulong Dunong Program under the same law.

In his speech, Aquino reiterated his call to reallocate the P260 billion allotted for flood control projects in the 2026 budget to education, health, and other essential public services.

“Education, not corruption. Remove the flood control funds, put them in the classroom. Remove the flood control funds, put them in teacher assistance,” Aquino said in Filipino.

“Remove the flood control funds, put them in more scholarships and subsidies for our youth,” he added.