Mandatory 20% student fare discount bill gets House nod

MANILA, Philippines — The House of Representatives on Monday unanimously approved on third and final reading the bill institutionalizing a year-round 20 percent discount on student fare for public transportation.

The lower chamber approved House Bill No. 8885 with 169 affirmative votes and zero negative votes or abstention. HB 8885, principally authored by Quezon City 5th District Rep. Alfred Vargas, was approved on second reading last Jan. 30.

READ: House OKs bill institutionalizing student fare discount on 2nd reading

The proposed law mandates a  year-round 20 percent discount for students on regular domestic fares in all public transportation, including land, rail, sea, and air, even on weekends and holidays. This will be granted upon the presentation of a duly issued and validated identification card or current validated enrolment form that is supported by proof of identity.

The bill specifies that any individual who uses falsified identification documents would be denied these privileges and may be subject to civil and penal liabilities prescribed by law.

The bill aims to “empower students by enabling them to pursue their education, helping them acquire gainful employment, thereby securing their future.”

“The bill seeks to address economic concerns and the alarming rate of school drop-out. This will alleviate the burden of the parents and guardians in the financial support given to the students with due consideration to the continued rise in the cost of education in the country, including their incidental expenses, e.g. transportation costs,” Vargas said.

Students who are deprived of these benefits by operators may file complaints with the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board for land transportation, Maritime Industry Authority for water public transportation, Civil Aeronautics Board for air transportation utilities, Legal Service of the Department of Transportation for rail, and Office of the Local Chief Executive of the local government unit for tricycles. /ee

READ: Senate approves year-round student fare discount