SENATOR Sherwin Gatchalian congratulated Dr. Shirley Agrupis on her appointment as the new Chairperson of the Commission on Higher Education (CHED), expressing confidence in her ability to lead reforms that will uplift the quality of higher education in the country.

“I congratulate Dr. Shirley Agrupis on her appointment as Chairperson of the Commission on Higher Education. She brings to the commission her experience as a university president, CHED Commissioner, and her strong research and academic background,” Gatchalian said in a statement.

The senator emphasized his readiness to work with Dr. Agrupis in boosting the competitiveness of Philippine higher education institutions and in ensuring that government programs—such as free higher education—continue to benefit underprivileged students.

“I look forward to working with her to enhance the competitiveness of our higher education institutions and to ensure that free higher education benefits more of our students in need,” he said.

Gatchalian, a long-time advocate for education reforms, assured the new CHED chief of his full support.

“Makakaasa si Dr. Agrupis ng aking buong suporta sa pagsusulong at pagpapatupad ng mga makabuluhang reporma para sa pagpapataas ng kalidad ng edukasyon sa bansa,” he added.

Dr. Agrupis takes the helm of CHED at a time when the agency is focusing on improving access to quality tertiary education and strengthening academic standards across the country.