SSC Pushes for SUC and SSC Budget Support in Congress and Senate Deliberations

Siquijor State College (SSC) actively participated in the FY 2026 national budget deliberations, presenting its institutional priorities while supporting the broader push for increased funding for State Universities and Colleges (SUCs).

From September 23 to 27, SSC officials attended key legislative budget hearings, clearly presenting the College’s financial priorities to national policymakers. Leading the delegation was SUC President II Dr. Steven J. Sumaylo, accompanied by Mr. Jay Louie L. Jarbonido, PIO/PMS Director/ Chief of Staff, and Ms. Mary Chris T. Alabastro, Administrative Officer V/ Budget Officer III.

The budget meetings began on September 23 at the Pre-Plenary Conference for Visayas SUCS, followed by the Plenary Budget Deliberations at the House of Representatives on September 25. On September 27, SSC joined the Senate Budget Briefing under Finance Subcommittee A, where senators showed strong support for increasing SUC funding.

In these sessions, the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) and SUCs received significant backing. An additional ₱9.97 billion was endorsed to support the Tertiary Education Subsidy (TES), ICT upgrades, and infrastructure development under CHED. CHED also committed ₱7.8 billion from the Higher Education Development Fund (HEDF), while Congress allocated ₱4.49 billion to help address funding shortfalls in the Free Higher Education (FHE) program.

At the Senate briefing, legislators voiced unanimous support for strengthening the financial capacity of SUCs nationwide. Under the proposed 2026 National Expenditure Program (NEP), SUCs are set to receive ₱128.825 billion, reflecting the government’s recognition of their essential role in national progress.

For SSC, the deliberations were vital to secure continued and increased budget support. President Sumaylo stressed that sustained investment is essential, especially for institutions in remote areas like Siquijor, as each allocation directly benefits students, growth, and regional development. SSC also showcased key achievements and future plans aligned with CHED’s goals and the Universal Access to Quality Tertiary Education Act.

The administration of SSC expresses deep appreciation to CHED Chairperson Dr. Shirley C. Agrupis, PASUC President Dr. Tirso A. Ronquillo, and the members of Congress and the Senate for their continued support of SUCs. Their leadership has been vital in ensuring that higher education remains a priority in national development planning.

Siquijor State College’s engagement in this year’s national budget process affirms its readiness to lead, represent, and deliver on its mission of providing transformative, accessible, and inclusive education.