Free TOR and Diploma? Sandro Marcos Files New Bill
SANDRO MARCOS – The House Majority Leader and representative of Ilocos Norte’s 1st District has proposed a bill that aims to help fresh graduates by requiring colleges and universities, both public and private, to provide important school documents for free.
Under the proposed Academic and Labor Pathways Assistance for Students (ALPAS) Act, graduates will be given free copies of their transcript of records, diploma, certificate of graduation, and other documents commonly required for job applications. The measure states that each graduate should receive at least five free copies, along with certified versions, and may request additional copies within 12 months after graduation without paying any processing or administrative fees.
The proposal was created to address a common problem faced by many new graduates when applying for jobs. Securing multiple copies of school documents often requires extra money and time, which can delay the job application process. By removing these costs and simplifying access, the bill aims to make it easier for graduates to prepare their requirements and apply for work without added financial burden.
In addition, the bill encourages schools to set up a digital system where graduates can request and receive their records online. This would make the process faster, more convenient, and more efficient, especially for those who may no longer live near their schools.
The proposal also comes at a time when unemployment remains a concern in the country, with millions of Filipinos still looking for jobs. By improving access to essential documents and reducing barriers at the start of the job search, the measure aims to support graduates in entering the workforce more smoothly. Overall, the bill focuses on helping young Filipinos transition from school to employment by making basic requirements easier to obtain and more accessible.