Reassessing CHED's Role: EDCOM Calls for Reforms in Philippine Higher Education

Three decades after its establishment, the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) in the Philippines is facing criticism for not fully realizing its mandate to elevate the country’s higher education system. The Education Commission (EDCOM 2), convened to evaluate CHED's effectiveness, has urged significant reforms aimed at addressing longstanding deficiencies in the sector.

According to a report by EDCOM released in October 2023, CHED's inability to adequately fulfill its responsibilities has resulted in a persistent gap in educational quality and accessibility. EDCOM's findings indicate that while there have been some improvements, the overall system remains hampered by bureaucratic inefficiencies and a lack of strategic direction.

Dr. Maria Santos, a leading education policy expert at the University of the Philippines, emphasizes that "the need for a comprehensive review of CHED’s policies and operations is crucial for the future of higher education in the Philippines." She argues that without structural changes, the quality of education will continue to lag behind international standards.

The CHED was established in 1994 with the goal of overseeing the higher education sector and ensuring its alignment with national development needs. However, critics have pointed out that the organization has struggled to adapt to the evolving demands of the 21st-century educational landscape. The EDCOM report cites several key areas requiring reform, including curriculum relevance, faculty development, and fiscal management.

In response to these findings, CHED Chairperson Prospero De Vera III stated, "We acknowledge the challenges highlighted by EDCOM and are committed to implementing the necessary reforms to enhance the quality of higher education in the Philippines." He further noted that CHED has already initiated several programs aimed at addressing these issues, including partnerships with international institutions to improve faculty training and curriculum development.

The economic implications of these reforms are significant. According to a study published in the Journal of Educational Economics in September 2023, improving the quality of higher education could lead to a more skilled workforce, which in turn could boost the Philippines' competitive edge in the global market. The study, authored by Dr. James Reyes of Ateneo de Manila University, suggests that a well-educated populace is vital for fostering innovation and economic growth.

Moreover, social equity must also be a consideration in the reform process. Access to quality higher education remains uneven across various regions in the Philippines, with rural areas often lacking the resources available in urban centers. Dr. Liza Mendoza, an economist with the World Bank, notes that "addressing these disparities is essential not only for economic growth but also for social cohesion."

The call for reform is echoed by various stakeholders, including industry leaders who argue that a robust higher education system is crucial for meeting the manpower demands of key sectors such as technology, engineering, and health care. For instance, Mr. Juan Carlos, CEO of TechPhilippines, emphasized that "the technology sector requires graduates with skills that align with current industry needs, and we are not seeing that from the current education system."

Looking ahead, experts believe that the proposed reforms could lead to a transformative impact on the Philippine higher education landscape. If successfully implemented, these changes could enhance the quality of education, increase graduation rates, and ultimately contribute to national development goals. However, as Dr. Santos warns, "the success of these reforms will depend on the commitment of all stakeholders, including government officials, educational institutions, and the private sector."

In conclusion, the challenges faced by CHED over the past 30 years highlight the urgent need for comprehensive reforms to ensure that the Philippine higher education system meets both current and future demands. As EDCOM 2 continues to advocate for these changes, the future of education in the Philippines hangs in the balance, with implications for the country's economy and society at large.