CHED Statement: Students Protest Against Tuition Fee Hike is Premature

Wazzup Pilipinas!

In a brief response to the claims made by students that rallied at the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) on February 5, CHED Chairperson Patricia B. Licuanan clarified that it is too early in the year to be able to determine the number of higher education institutions (HEIs) that will increase tuition and/or other school fees.

About a dozen or so students led by Kabataan Partylist and the National Union of Students of the Philippines marched to CHED with banners, slogans and strong statements against CHED and the Aquino Administration for increases in fees in over 400 colleges and universities next year. Once again, they defaced the CHED gate with sprayed graffiti. They were accompanied by some members of the media.

As specified in CHED’s guidelines governing tuition and other school fees, higher education institutions (HEIs) have until the end of February to comply with the consultation process. The HEIs are given until April 01 to submit duly notarized documentary requirements to their CHED regional office should they decide to increase fees. Only then can realistic numbers be determined.

CHED will ensure that HEIs meet the guidelines provided by law and adhere strictly to requirements that seek to make tuition fee increases transparent, reasonable and affordable.

Issued this 5th Day of February 2016 at the Higher Education Development Center, C.P. Garcia Avenue, Diliman, Quezon City.

(signed)
Patricia B. Licuanan, Ph.D.
Chairperson