CHED Chairman Prospero de Vera Resigns
After nearly seven years of service, Commission on Higher Education (CHED) Chairman Prospero de Vera III has officially stepped down, following President Marcos’ acceptance of his courtesy resignation. This unexpected move brings an early end to his term, originally set to last until July 2026.
De Vera expressed his respect for the President’s decision, saying, “I respect the President’s decision and thank him for the trust and the opportunity to continue the educational reforms in higher education that I began when I was appointed Commissioner in 2016, Chairman in 2018, and under his administration.”
Key Achievements During His Tenure
Since joining CHED as a Commissioner in 2016 and becoming Chairman two years later, de Vera played a pivotal role in shaping major reforms in Philippine higher education. Notably, he championed the Universal Access to Quality Tertiary Education Act (RA 10931), which provides free tuition and other fees for students in state universities and colleges (SUCs), local universities and colleges (LUCs), and government-run technical-vocational institutions.
De Vera called his time at CHED “the honor of a lifetime,” emphasizing his dedication to helping Filipino students achieve their dreams. He stated, “It has been the honor of a lifetime to serve the Filipino people and to give every aspiring young Filipino the opportunity to achieve his or her dream of completing a university education through the Universal Access to Quality Tertiary Education Act.”
Commitment to Quality Higher Education
Throughout his tenure, de Vera worked closely with colleagues in CHED and the wider education sector to promote access, equity, and quality in higher education across the country. He acknowledged their dedication and teamwork as essential to advancing these goals.
“It has also been a privilege to work with committed colleagues in CHED and across the higher education sector to promote access, equity, and quality in Philippine higher education,” he added.
New Leadership and Future Outlook
As de Vera steps down, he extended his congratulations to Commissioner Shirley Agrupis, who has been appointed as the new CHED Chairperson. He expressed pride in what the commission has achieved and pledged ongoing support for the nation’s educational goals.
“As I step down from this post, I do so with gratitude and pride in what we have achieved together, and I remain committed to supporting the nation’s educational goals in any way I can,” de Vera said.
Local experts note that de Vera’s resignation marks a significant transition for CHED, and many are watching closely how the new leadership will continue the momentum in higher education reforms.
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