Key Cayetano Bills Clear Senate Final Reading, Paving Way for Economic, Education, and Healthcare Reforms

by: Edjun Mariposque

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February 4, 2025

4–5 minutes

Philippines – February 3, 2025 – Several landmark bills championed by Senator Alan Peter Cayetano have successfully passed the Senate on Third and Final Reading, marking a significant step toward economic progress, expanded education access, and improved healthcare services as the 19th Congress nears its conclusion.

Economic Growth Through BCDA Charter Amendments

One of the major measures approved was Senate Bill No. 2647, which seeks to amend the Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) charter. Cayetano, who spearheaded the bill as chair of the Senate Committee on Government Corporations and Public Enterprises, highlighted its potential to accelerate economic growth.

“If we develop Bulacan and Clark economic zones correctly, it could really be a twin engine of development in our country, and it could really pull the massive urbanization out of Metro Manila and spur development in Central Luzon,” Cayetano said.

The bill extends the BCDA’s corporate term by 50 years, allows strategic land sales from former military bases, and allocates a portion of proceeds to the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Pension Fund.

Expanding Access to Quality Education

As chair of the Senate Committee on Higher, Technical, and Vocational Education, Cayetano led efforts to improve education access through the passage of key bills:

Senate Bill No. 2669, which elevates the Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP) as the National Polytechnic University of the Philippines, granting it greater autonomy, expanding academic programs, and establishing a Center for Artificial Intelligence and Emerging Technologies.

House Bill No. 9989, renaming Don Honorio Ventura State University (DHVSU) to Pampanga State University.

House Bill No. 9988, upgrading DHVSU’s San Fernando campus to a full-fledged regular campus.

Cayetano underscored the need for equitable education, emphasizing the financial gap between institutions.

“PUP is basically P12 per unit, while UP is P1,500 per unit… yet, when it comes to awards and accomplishments, PUP has done an equally amazing job,” he pointed out.

Strengthening Healthcare Services and Research

Among the key healthcare measures passed were:

Senate Bill No. 2838 (Magna Carta for Barangay Health Workers), co-authored by Cayetano, which provides hazard allowances, training access, and better support for barangay health workers (BHWs).

Senate Bill No. 2573, which establishes the Virology Institute of the Philippines (VIP) to boost the country’s virology research, vaccine development, and disease prevention. Cayetano co-authored this measure alongside bill sponsor Senator Pia Cayetano.

With these bills now approved by the Senate, they will advance to the bicameral conference before reaching the President’s desk for final approval.

Cayetano’s legislative push reflects a strong commitment to long-term economic development, accessible education, and a resilient healthcare system, setting the stage for a more progressive Philippines.

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