For academic years 2017-2018 and 2018-2019, 8 state universities and colleges having granting medical degrees, namely: Bicol University College of Medicine, Cagayan State University College of Medicine, Mariano Marcos State University College of Medicine, Mindanao State University College of Medicine, University of Northern Philippines College of Medicine, University of the Philippines College of Medicine, University of the Philippines Manila, School of Health Sciences Palo, Leyte College of Medicine and West Visayas State University College of Medicine, received tuition subsidies under the Cash Grant to Medical Students in State Universities and Colleges (CGMS-SUCs). Under the memorandum by CHED and DBM, all eligible students can opt to apply for a cash grant that will cover 100% of the tuition fee for that academic year. As we speak, there are no news or updates regarding the coming academic years. This uncertainty places students at a disadvantage because some rely on the grant to continue their education. With both academic years’ reliance on a memorandum release for the tuition subsidy, there is a clear lack of permanence. And with the recent budget cuts, the continuity of the grant is highly unlikely. An average first year medical student’s tuition fee in a state medical school costs around Php 24 000 to Php 88 500 per year. This excludes living expenses and other necessities. The cost of studying medicine is one of the biggest hindrances in pursuing a career very much needed by our society.


We, the eight state universities and colleges, stand as one in calling for the continuation of this grant by means of legislation. We ask that the RA 10931 or “Universal Access to Quality Tertiary Education Act” be amended to include medical education or create a whole new law to provide free medical education.

We are one with state in its crusade for providing healthcare for all Filipinos. Let us not allow more Filipinos fall to their demise. Let us work together towards free, accessible and quality medical education.