ICYMI: The Commission on Higher Education (CHED) approved the adjustment of the timelines prescribed under the Commission’s prevailing policies and procedures governing increases in tuition and other school fees.
The adjustment will take effect beginning academic year 2023-2024 for private higher education institutions (HEI).
According to a memorandum dated January 26 from CHED Chairman Prospero De Vera III, this is “in view of the change in the opening of most private [HEIs] to August.”
The consultation period must now be completed not later than April 28 while the deadline for the submission of documentary requirements will now be on June 1. Formerly, private HEIs have until February 28 to conduct consultations and until April 1 to submit applications for increase in tuition and other fees, according to CHED Memorandum Order No. 3 series of 2012.
“The adjustments in the periods would allow HEIs ample time to consult with their faculty and student body on the intended adjustment of fees and complete the submission of requirements,” De Vera said.
In deciding on the reasonableness of tuition and other school fees, CHED takes into account the inflation rate, impact of calamities, and the HEI’s financial standing, track record, and mission and vision.
Meanwhile, the Kabataan Partylist criticized the Commission for being “soft” in terms of regulating fee increases.
“Ginagamit ng malalaking pribadong paaralan at ng mga kapitalista-edukador ang napakaluwag na regulasyon ng CHED sa tuition at school fees para magtaas ng mga bayarin taon-taon. Sasabay pa sila sa pagtaas ng presyo ng mga bilihin,” Kabataan Partylist Representative Raoul Manuel told DZUP.
“Hindi trabaho ng gobyerno na tiyakin ang kita ng mga paaralang gumagana na parang malaking negosyo. Hindi pa rin nito nagagawang silipin ang paniningil ng mga kaduda-dudang bayarin kahit noong kasagsagan ng pandemya,” he said.