Mandaue City College Achieves CHED Institutional Recognition, Paving Way for Student Subsidies
Students in Mandaue City can now more easily claim government education subsidies following a significant milestone for Mandaue City College (MCC). The institution has officially received Institutional Recognition (IR) from the Commission on Higher Education (CHED), a crucial step that facilitates access to financial assistance under programs like UniFAST.
CHED Emphasizes Ongoing Quality Standards
Dr. Filomena T. Dayagbil, Regional Director of CHED 7, highlighted that while this recognition is a major achievement, it is not a permanent guarantee. "This is something we always emphasize to our education champions that Institutional Recognition is not forever," stated Dayagbil. "If we see that quality is no longer maintained, whether in terms of qualified administrators, faculty, or student outcomes, we will have to talk to the institution. And if they still fail to comply, CHED will issue warning," she added. Despite this, Dayagbil expressed confidence that MCC will uphold high standards due to strong support from local leaders and school officials.
Local Officials Hail Long-Awaited Victory
Mayor Thadeo Jovito "Jonkie" Ouano described this development as a hard-fought victory, noting that the college had been disqualified for the past three years. "In the previous three years, Mandaue City College was disqualified. But this year, through the joint efforts of CHED, the college, the local government, and Congresswoman Emmarie Ouano-Dizon, our request for Institutional Recognition has finally been approved," said Ouano. The mayor also announced that the city is allocating nearly P40 million as a tuition subsidy for students, with construction of a new college building set to begin mid-year.
Funding and Future Plans
There is potential for reallocating other funds to address urgent needs such as rising oil prices and waste disposal costs. Congresswoman Emmarie "Lolypop" Ouano-Dizon expressed gratitude to CHED and Dr. Dayagbil, stating that this recognition brings great relief to parents and students, particularly regarding school expenses. However, Dayagbil clarified that the final decision on UniFAST support does not rest solely with CHED. "UniFAST has its own board, so it's not entirely our call," she explained, underscoring the collaborative nature of the subsidy process.
