SENATOR Francis “Chiz” Escudero on Wednesday asked the Commission on Higher Education if there is a need to change the name of the Polytechnic University of the Philippines as it seeks autonomy from the Commission on Higher Education.

During the hearing of the Senate Committee on Higher, Technical and Vocational Education, the senator inquired on the necessity to change the name of PUP into National Polytechnic University.

The senator’s query was in line with the discussions on Senate Bill 2448 which seeks to amend the PUP charter.

“What’s in the name Chair Popoy De Vera? So, what if I call PUP as National Polytechnic University? That doesn’t automatically carry with it institutional autonomy, right?” the senator asked.

CHED Chairman Prospero De Vera III had raised concerns on PUP’s move for autonomy.

He said that unless under the law they don’t have institutional autonomy, changing PUP’s name carries with it institutional autonomy.