Senate Bill 1961 authored by Senator JV Ejercito gained positive reactions from students in Mati City recently this week today.
The proposed Fresh Graduates 5000 One-Time Cash Grant Act of 2026 aims providing financial assistance to new graduates nationwide beneficiaries.
Based on 2025 Labor Force Survey unemployment among college graduates increased by 2.6 percent in December 2024 data reported officially.
Department of Labor and Employment together with Commission on Higher Education cited job mismatch as major contributing factor in employment.
Senator Ejercito emphasized financial challenges faced by graduates as they transition from school to workforce employment opportunities nationwide recently highlighted.
Under the bill qualified graduates will receive five thousand pesos upon presentation of diploma or certification requirements completed officially required.
The measure also proposes creation of an inter-agency monitoring committee responsible for implementing rules and regulations nationwide effective implementation oversight.
Students in Mati City expressed positive reception saying financial aid could help them while searching employment opportunities after graduation process.
Graduating students highlighted that the proposed cash grant would ease immediate post-graduation expenses and daily living costs financial burden relief.
Many students remain hopeful that Senate will approve the bill due to its potential impact on employment readiness nationwide support.
Brigada News FM Mati reported the story highlighting student perspectives and ongoing legislative discussions regarding the proposal youth sector response.
