ALCUCOA AN ACTIVE PARTNER OF THE PHILIPPINE CONGRESS IN SHAPING THE FUTURE OF HIGHER EDUCATION

ALCUCOA AN ACTIVE PARTNER OF THE PHILIPPINE CONGRESS IN SHAPING THE FUTURE OF HIGHER EDUCATION

The Commission on Accreditation for Local Colleges and Universities (ALCUCOA) has been at the forefront of advocating for measures that shape and enhance the Philippine higher education system. Through active engagement with the Philippine House of Representatives and Senate Committee on Higher and Technical Education, ALCUCOA has consistently presented critical insights and position papers that reflect its deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities within the sector.

One of ALCUCOA's key contributions was its presentation on “Achieving Complementarity in Philippine Higher Education: The LCU Perspective” on January 29, 2024. In this position paper, ALCUCOA called for a more integrated and complementary approach to higher education in the country. Acknowledging the diverse needs of learners and the varying capabilities of educational institutions, the paper emphasized the importance of fostering collaboration between public and private universities, technical-vocational institutions, and other stakeholders. The goal was to ensure that every Filipino student has access to a relevant and high-quality education, while avoiding redundancy and inefficiencies within the system. ALCUCOA’s insights underscored how this complementarity could lead to greater academic and industry alignment, ultimately contributing to the national workforce's readiness and competitiveness.

In another pivotal engagement, ALCUCOA presented a “Position Statement on Resolution of Both Houses No. 7” on March 4, 2024. This resolution, proposing amendments to certain economic provisions of the 1987 Constitution of the Republic of the Philippines, specifically targeted Articles XII, XIV, and XVI, which address economic policies, education, and the professional regulation of industries. ALCUCOA’s stance on the matter was that these constitutional amendments should consider the broader context of educational and professional development in the country. By advocating for measures that would enhance the flexibility and sustainability of the higher education system, ALCUCOA urged lawmakers to ensure that any amendments aligned with the long-term vision for Philippine education and its role in the global economy.

Furthermore, ALCUCOA’s position paper on the “Modernization of the Professional Regulation Commission (PRC),” presented on March 9, 2024, highlighted the importance of modernizing and adapting the PRC to the demands of an evolving professional landscape. The paper underscored the need for efficient regulatory mechanisms to ensure that professionals across various sectors are equipped with the necessary credentials and skills, while also fostering global competitiveness.

Through these engagements, ALCUCOA continues to play a crucial role in influencing legislation that impacts the Philippine higher education system. By offering thoughtful perspectives on complementarity, constitutional amendments, and professional regulation, ALCUCOA is paving the way for a more robust, responsive, and future-ready education sector.