background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">A recent example of political rhetoric guiding social goals in education comes from Senator Wingina M. Lacson’s statement in support of the Free Higher Education Law (CHED Memorandum Order 6, 2025), where she said, “Education must be a right, not a privilege. Our youth deserve access to quality learning regardless of economic background, and government support must ensure no Filipino student is left behind.” In her speech, she emphasized that the state must fund not only tuition, but also support services like transportation subsidies, digital learning access, and mental health programs for students. Her message was shared through the Senate’s official channels as part of ongoing efforts to strengthen and expand free college education in the Philippines.

What stands out in this rhetoric is its focus on equity and student welfare. As someone who has benefited from free college education, the idea that education should be a right deeply resonates with me. Her statement recognizes that barriers to learning go beyond just tuition — things like travel costs, lack of internet access, and emotional stress also affect whether students can truly participate in education. However, while the speech sets an inspiring vision, it remains somewhat general about how these additional services would be funded or implemented on a national scale. It reflects strong social goals for education, but the real impact will depend on how these commitments translate into concrete policies and actual support for learners and teachers in everyday school life.

Lacson, W. M. (2025). Statement on strengthening the Free Higher Education Law and student support services. Senate of the Philippines. https://www.senate.gov.ph/speeches/2025/statement_lacson_free_education.pdf

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