Filipino students across the country will soon have greater access to quality science education following the signing of Republic Act No. 12310, or the Expanded Philippine Science High School System Act. The new law, authored and sponsored by Senate Majority Leader Juan Miguel “Migz” Zubiri, aims to establish at least two Philippine Science High School (PSHS) campuses in every administrative region of the country.
Zubiri said the expansion will ensure that talented and deserving students, regardless of their location, will have the opportunity to study in a PSHS campus closer to home. “The Philippine Science High School is one of our most prestigious institutions, producing world-class students in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. But for years, the limited number of campuses meant that many deserving students were left out,” he said.
The senator explained that each region will now have two PSHS campuses located in separate provinces, while the National Capital Region will have campuses in different cities. He emphasized that this move is part of a broader effort to promote inclusive and equitable access to science and technology education across all regions. “This means that even students in far-flung areas will have a fair chance to study in a Pisay campus near them,” Zubiri said.
Aside from expanding campuses, the new law also strengthens the PSHS system by institutionalizing the roles of its Board of Trustees, Executive Director, and other key officials. It also allows the hiring of specialized faculty members without requiring civil service eligibility, enabling the school to recruit scientists, engineers, and innovators who can guide and mentor students.
Zubiri highlighted that the measure also includes the establishment of a PSHS campus in the newly created Negros Island Region. He said this provision reflects the government’s commitment to decentralizing educational opportunities and nurturing scientific talent in all areas of the country.
“Ang hangarin talaga natin dito ay pantay-pantay na oportunidad. Hindi lang dapat sa Metro Manila o sa mga urban areas may access sa ganitong klaseng edukasyon. Dapat pati sa Mindanao, sa Visayas, at sa mga isla, may Pisay na pwedeng pasukan ang ating mga qualified na estudyante,” he said.
The senator thanked President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. for signing the measure into law, calling it a landmark achievement for STEM education. “This is a victory for science education and for every young Filipino who dreams of building a better future for the country through knowledge and innovation,” Zubiri said.
He added that the Expanded PSHS System Act represents the government’s long-term investment in the country’s future scientists and innovators. “Access to quality science education should not be a privilege of the few,” Zubiri said. “Through this law, we’re giving every Filipino student with passion and potential in science the opportunity to shine.”
