House Committee Approves Student Internship Allowance Act for Filipino Students
The House Committee on Higher and Technical Education has officially passed House Bill No. 2778, widely known as the Student Internship Allowance Act. This landmark legislation aims to provide crucial financial support to students engaged in internships, practicums, or on-the-job training as integral components of their academic programs.
Key Provisions of the Student Internship Allowance Act
Under this proposed measure, students who successfully complete their internship, practicum, or on-the-job training at colleges and technical-vocational institutions across the Philippines will receive a one-time internship allowance of ₱10,000. This financial assistance is specifically designated to cover transportation expenses to and from the training location, as well as daily meal costs during the internship period.
Scope and Eligibility Requirements
The legislation encompasses all students enrolled in both public and private educational institutions throughout the Philippines, provided these schools are officially recognized by the Commission on Higher Education (CHED). This inclusive approach ensures broad accessibility to the allowance program across diverse educational settings.
Financial Benefits and Tax Implications
The ₱10,000 internship allowance carries significant financial advantages for recipients:
- Non-taxable status: The allowance will not be subject to any taxation, meaning students receive the full amount without deductions.
- Non-transferable nature: The allowance cannot be transferred to another individual, ensuring it benefits only the qualifying student.
- Full disbursement: No deductions will be made from the allowance, guaranteeing that students receive the complete ₱10,000 amount.
Legislative Perspective and Educational Impact
According to Representative Jude Acidre, the proposed legislation recognizes the vital role internships play as a bridge connecting theoretical classroom learning with real-world work experience. This acknowledgment underscores the government's commitment to enhancing practical education and workforce readiness among Filipino students.
The Student Internship Allowance Act represents a significant step toward supporting students' professional development while alleviating financial burdens associated with mandatory training programs. By providing this financial assistance, the legislation aims to encourage more students to pursue valuable internship opportunities that complement their academic studies.
