THE HOUSE of Representatives approved on second reading the measure that aims to strengthen the Commission on Higher Education.

House Bill 10282 or the proposed Amended Higher Education Act seeks to expand CHED’s mandate to cover the supervision and regulation of programs offered by higher education institutions.

This will allow CHED to exercise its oversight and supervisory powers over local colleges and universities offering degree programs.

However, the bill does not give CHED jurisdiction over the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region of Muslim Mindanao and foreign HEIs operating under Philippine laws.

Under the measure, CHED must be headed by a chairperson and four commissioners who are doctorate degree holders from reputable HEIs recognized by the commission.

House Bill 10282 also requires CHED to formulate a roadmap for higher education that shall set the general direction for educational policies and standards. It must also ensure that higher education is accessible, equitable and produces locally responsive, innovative and globally competitive graduates.

Under the bill, the CHED will direct the development and reform of higher education towards world-class standards and harmonization with the Asean education plan, international conventions and agreements.