Senator JV Ejercito has filed a measure seeking to give fresh graduates a one-time ₱5,000 cash grant to help cover the costs of looking for their first job.
Senate Bill No. 1961, or the proposed “Fresh Graduates ₱5,000 One-Time Cash Grant Act of 2026,” aims to support graduates of tertiary education, universities, colleges, and training institutions as they move from school to employment.
Ejercito said young Filipinos who are ready to join the workforce should receive support from the government, especially during a period when many are still financially vulnerable.
“Many individuals who have completed tertiary education aspire to secure decent employment that provides adequate benefits for a stable and dignified living. However, as fresh graduates who often have limited financial resources, they are faced with various expenses associated with job applications,” Ejercito said in the bill’s explanatory note.
He said job hunting often comes with costs such as transportation, printed resumes and documents, and proper work attire, adding pressure on young job seekers entering the labor force.
Ejercito said the proposal builds on the First Time Jobseekers Assistance Act, which waives certain government fees for first-time applicants, by giving eligible fresh graduates direct cash assistance.
“This assistance is intended to help fresh graduates cover the basic expenses related to their job search, allowing them to focus on developing their skills and preparing themselves to secure meaningful employment,” he said.
Under the bill, applicants must submit proof of graduation or completion to the concerned agency or LGU, such as a diploma, certification, document, or notice from an academic, vocational, or technical institution.
The document must clearly show the date of graduation or completion, the course completed or degree earned, and the signature of an authorized representative of the institution.
The bill also seeks to create an inter-agency monitoring committee led by the CHED chairperson to coordinate implementation, draft the rules and regulations, and recommend administrative complaints against those who refuse to comply.
