The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) welcomes the passage of House Bill (HB) 559 at the House Committee on Higher and Technical Education.

HB 559, also known as “An Act Granting Free Post-graduate Education to Public and Private School Teachers in State Colleges and Universities (SUCs) and Local Universities and Colleges (LUCs),” seeks to improve the quality of education in the Philippines by enhancing the professional development of our educators.

The Commission underscores that access to free post-graduate education is not only a tool for professional advancement but also a matter of upholding human rights. Education is a fundamental right, and investing in the continued learning of educators directly contributes to the realization of every Filipino’s right to quality education. By equipping teachers with advanced knowledge, modern pedagogical strategies, and appropriate skills, we are fostering an environment where learners’ intellectual, social, and moral development are prioritized. This empowers teachers to fulfill their role in shaping future generations, which is essential to the nation’s long-term development and the promotion of quality education.

We commend the efforts of our legislators, particularly Rep. France Castro, Rep. Arlene Brosas, and Rep. Raoul Manuel, for their initiative to empower our educators and fulfill the State’s responsibility to provide quality education.

As this proposed bill moves forward in the legislative process, the CHR calls for continued support from all stakeholders to ensure that the State’s obligation to uphold and promote the right to quality education is met, in accordance with our commitment to human rights. ###