‘PLM deserves more because PLM can do more’ — Sen. Koko Pimentel

In line with PLM’s 56th founding anniversary, Senator Aquilino “Koko” Pimentel celebrated with the Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila (PLM) in its Transformation Program at the Justo Alberto Auditorium, June 19.

Sen. Koko Pimentel, the keynote speaker of the program, highlighted PLM's commitment in delivering quality education especially during the pandemic in which the university opened its doors to more than 9,000 freshmen, doubling the number of its student population. He also recognized PLM’s contributions to the urgent needs of healthcare workers, admitting around 400 new nursing students and 100 physical therapy students, and establishing the School of Public Health. Also, he praised PLM and its students for their groundbreaking performances in licensure examinations.

“Your success exemplifies the resilience, dedication, and unyielding spirit that is nurtured within the halls of PLM… In the midst of every crisis lies great opportunities, PLM has just proven this… Your accomplishments bear witness to the exceptional quality of education that PLM provides,” Sen. Pimentel said.

Moreover, Sen. Pimentel mentioned that the adequate resources provided by the national government is still and has always been a major concern. Even the UNIFAST tuition reimbursement program is not enough to sufficiently support PLM’s operations. He himself has seen that some infrastructures need rehabilitation, and libraries, laboratories, classrooms, and learning spaces need to be modernized. Sen. Pimentel added that if PLM needs to make amendments to its Charter, he would gladly help the university in its process.

“Allow me, with the help of Atty. George Garcia, allow us to study further your situation because the more I understand your situation, the more I will be in the position to help. In the next budget process, let us collaborate on how we can help PLM with the national budget through CHED. So together, let us find a way to pressure UNIFAST to cover at least 100% of your operating expenses. So I therefore call for meaningful and sufficient support from the government and the private sectors for PLM. PLM deserves more because PLM can do more,” Sen. Pimentel said.

The senator also expressed his admiration to the university officials, that no matter what is thrown at them, no matter what situation they find themselves in, they have always exerted their best efforts to survive and succeed.