THE COMMISSION on Higher Education has appointed Dr. Dave E. Marcial, an official from Silliman University, as the new chairperson of the Technical Panel for Information Technology.

Dr. Marcial, who also directs the Dr. Mariano C. Lao Global Studies Center, will oversee IT education nationwide through the panel, which focuses on advancing policies and standards for computing and information technology.

His term will run from January 1, 2025, to December 31, 2028.

The CHED Technical Panel plays a crucial role in shaping IT education by advising on policies, updating the five-year roadmap, revising the guidelines for Centers of Development and Excellence, and leading consultations and evaluator training.

“We are navigating an educational landscape defined by rapid innovations such as the Philippine Skills Framework, micro-credentialing, and the AI-driven knowledge economy—all of which are intertwined with global rankings and international accreditation,” Marcial said.

He emphasized the importance of collaboration, noting that the panel’s diverse makeup of industry, government, and academic leaders is key to achieving its objectives.

With a wealth of experience in IT education, Marcial has served as the dean of the SU College of Computer Studies and president of the Philippine Society for Information Technology Educators, and has supported regional ICT initiatives in Dumaguete and Negros Oriental.