The House of Representatives has approved on second reading House Bill 11213, titled "An Act Providing Education Pathways for Basic Education Students," which would allow qualified Grade 10 students to skip senior high school (SHS) and go directly to college or university through an ‘Honors Exam’ or advanced placement test.

According to Pasig City Representative and House Committee on Basic Education and Culture Chairman Roman Romulo, the bill offers two alternative education pathways aimed at reducing financial burdens on families and providing more learning opportunities for students.
He explained that the curriculum, called the "University Preparatory Program," will help eligible Grade 10 students prepare for college, but they must pass the Honors Exam or advanced placement test to qualify.

Romulo said the bill addresses issues with the K-12 program, which many Filipinos find unsatisfactory. A 2022 survey revealed that 44% of Filipinos are dissatisfied with the K-12 curriculum, and many senior high school graduates face difficulties in securing jobs without further education.

Meanwhile, a 2020 study by the Philippine Institute for Development Studies (PIDS) found that only 20% of SHS graduates enter the workforce immediately after graduation. Many of these graduates later decide to pursue a college degree, as employers often prefer candidates with higher educational qualifications.

Romulo emphasized that the bill aims to offer students more pathways to achieve their educational goals and enhance their readiness for employment or further studies.