Manila, Sept. 1 -- Solid North Party-list Rep. Ching Bernos on Tuesday said the Department of Budget and Management's release of PHP9.75 billion for state universities and colleges (SUCs) nationwide is "a timely and much-needed infusion of funds."

The DBM recently released PHP9.75 billion to the Commission on Higher Education for 108 SUCs nationwide to settle costs previously absorbed in implementing the Free Higher Education (FHE) program during the academic years 2022-2023, 2023-2024, and 2024-2025.

"These funds will surely help our SUCs as they strive to become better learning institutions and partners of our youth in reaching for their dreams," Bernos said in a news release.

"Pagkatapos ng paghihigpit ng sinturon dahil sa pagpasan...