IN A LANDMARK move toward greater coherence in the country’s education and professional systems, the Commission on Higher Education (CHED), the Professional Regulation Commission (PRC), and the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) have signed a Joint Memorandum Circular (JMC) establishing a Tripartite Council to harmonize and streamline policies across the three agencies.

The JMC directly responds to the Second Congressional Commission on Education (EDCOM 2)’s findings on persistent regulatory inconsistencies and policy gridlocks affecting professional and technical courses in the Philippines.

Under the new agreement, the Tripartite Council will review, revise, and align policies, standards, and guidelines; training regulations; curricula; and licensure assessment standards implemented by CHED, TESDA, and PRC.

The goal: to eliminate contradictions, resolve overlapping mandates, and develop a unified framework ensuring a smooth transition for students and professionals—from technical to higher education, and ultimately to professional practice.

For years, students and educators have grappled with mismatched curricula, training standards, and licensure requirements. These inconsistencies—ranging from differences in program duration and faculty qualifications to misaligned exam content—have created barriers to learning continuity and career progression.

To avoid duplication and policy disputes, the JMC clearly defines the jurisdiction of each agency:

CHED will have final authority over curriculum design, program duration, and academic compliance when conflicts arise.

PRC will retain authority over licensure examination standards and professional practice guidelines, but must coordinate with CHED to ensure policy alignment.

TESDA will continue to oversee technical-vocational education, including the formulation of Training Regulations and certification processes.

The Tripartite Council, co-chaired by the heads of CHED, PRC, and TESDA, will also include representatives from Professional Regulatory Boards and Discipline and Sector Skills Councils.

The Council is expected to convene within 30 days and complete a comprehensive cross-mapping of policies within 90 days from the JMC’s publication.

TESDA Director General Francisco Benitez hailed the signing as a “historic step” toward a seamless education-to-employment system.

CHED Chairperson Dr. Shirley Agrupis underscored the broader impact of the agreement.

While the JMC provides an immediate administrative solution, the agencies recognize that comprehensive reform will ultimately require legislation.