Senator Christopher "Bong" Go said he is optimistic that the Free College Entrance Examinations Act would open up more opportunities for natural-born Filipino students gain access to higher education.

Go believes Republic Act No. 12006 will cater more to economically disadvantaged yet high-performing students across the country.

The new law targets natural-born Filipino students who are among the top 10 percent of their graduating high school class and come from families below the poverty threshold as defined by the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA).

"Education is the greatest equalizer. With this law, we ensure that financial limitations no longer hinder our youth's pursuit of academic excellence," said Go, one of the authors and co-sponsors of the measure, has been a vocal proponent of removing financial barriers in education.

The new law primarily waives entrance exam fees at private higher educational institutions (HEIs) for qualified students.

Under the new law, the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) is empowered to oversee its implementation, ensuring that all private HEIs comply with the law.

Institutions that fail to adhere to the law will face sanctions, safeguarding the rights of qualified students to free access to college entrance tests.

“This victory is not ours but of every Filipino family who dreams of a better future through education. It’s a testament to what we can achieve when we put the needs of our people first,” he said.

“Let us also be reminded that our work does not end here. We must continue to support our youth by providing them with the tools they need to succeed in their educational journeys,” he added.