President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Tuesday ordered the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) to effectively implement the Expanded Tertiary Education Equivalency and Accreditation Program (ETEEAP) Act, which grants college degrees based on work experience and prior learning.
During the launch of the Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR) of the ETEEAP Act held in Malacañan Palace, the President said the law supports highly-skilled individuals who were not able to get to or complete college.
“This law gives our fellows who were not able to finish college a second chance… It supports caregivers, mechanics, technicians, and entrepreneurs- people who have long proven their skill but who now get the recognition that they properly deserve,” President Marcos said.
The ETEEAP Act opens doors to higher positions, better income, and more professional opportunities without taking time away from work in order to attend college.
President Marcos also said the ETEEAP Act helps higher education institutions (HEIs) become more inclusive by acknowledging that learning is not always linear and intelligence takes on many forms.
The law also leads to the development of stronger industries and a more competitive workforce, the President added.
“So, to the CHED and its partner agencies: Let’s ensure the implementation of this Act goes smoothly. Monitor our deputized HEIs and see to it that this law benefits those it was created for,” President Marcos ordered.
The President assured non-college graduates of the government’s support in their goal to improve their lives.
“Huwag kayong humintong mangarap. Ang tunay na sukatan ng dunong ay ang kakayahan ninyong harapin ang mga pagsubok upang matupad ang inyong mga pangarap. Naniniwala po akong patunay kayo na walang limitasyon sa kayang abutin ng bawat Pilipino,” President Marcos said.
“Together, let us shape a Bagong Pilipinas where every Filipino has the chance to be recognized, to grow, and to succeed,” the Chief Executive also said.
Signed by President Marcos on March 3, Republic Act 12124 or the ETEEAP Act would benefit non-college graduates who wish to earn a bachelor’s degree, as well as college graduates who wish to pursue a special graduate degree, without going through traditional schooling methods.
The program is based on academic equivalency and accreditation of prior learning or knowledge and expertise gained from relevant work experience and training. ǀ PND
