CHED marks 32nd Anniversary with Strategic Partnership Convergence, Strengthening Ties with Global and Local Stakeholders

Manila, Philippines — The Commission on Higher Education (CHED) recently celebrated its 32nd anniversary, marking more than three decades of service with a distinct shift in focus toward its internal workforce and its network of invaluable stakeholders.

Led by CHED Chairperson Shirley C. Agrupis, the culmination of the anniversary, themed "Strategic Partnership Convergence," moved away from traditional festive celebrations to emphasize the collaborative efforts that drive the Commission's mission.

During the event, Chairperson Agrupis highlighted that this year’s celebration was designed to honor the "twin pillars" of CHED’s success: its dedicated internal workforce and the external partners who make the Commission's goals achievable. This strategic shift underscores a commitment to strengthening the foundations of the Philippine higher education system through unity and mutual support.

The event saw a gathering of prominent "education champions" from various branches of government and the diplomatic community. Representing the legislative branch were Senator Loren Legarda and Congressman Jude Acidre. Key leaders from other government agencies also attended to show their support, including TESDA Secretary Kiko Benitez, DOH Secretary Teodoro J. Herbosa, PRC Chairperson Atty. Charito A. Zamora, EDCOM2 Executive Director Karol Mark Yee, and TEC Secretariat Executive Director Jennie Jocson.

The international community was also represented by HE Mohammad Sarwar Mahmood, Ambassador of Bangladesh, and HE Sin Saream, Ambassador of Cambodia, signaling the importance of global partnerships in the sector.

A significant highlight of the convergence was the overwhelming show of support from the country’s State Universities and Colleges (SUCs). Adiong Memorial State College President Dr. Sherifa Rohannie K. Adiong, acting as the PASUC Regional Chair for the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM), joined the PASUC Advisory Council in endorsing a manifesto from 113 SUCs expressing full support for Chairperson Agrupis.

Other notable academic leaders in attendance included PASUC President Tirso Ronquillo and CHED Region 12 Director Rody Garcia, along with representatives from various higher education institutions.

The celebration concluded on a note of solidarity, with the Commission and its partners reaffirming their commitment to the slogan "Together, we ACHIEVE!".

As CHED enters its 33rd year, the focus remains on fostering smooth relations and collaborations across the educational landscape to elevate the quality of higher education in the Philippines.

The event was widely shared on social media using the hashtags #ItaguyodAngHusay and #TogetherWeAchieve

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