MCC-Basak defies CHED, continues to operate

CEBU, Philippines — The Mandaue City College (MCC) operated by Dr. Paulus Mariae Cañete remains operational despite a Commission on Higher Education (CHED) order two weeks ago that it will not recognize the degree programs it offers for lack of government permits.

“Padayon gihapon kay wala pa may final order from the court.  It is premature to make such pronouncements for  we will still make a move – to do motion for reconsideration – and it seems that CHED Chairman De Vera is pre-empting already the court’s decision with finality,” said Cañete when asked if classes are still going on at MCC.

He added he will still raise this issue up to the Supreme Court.

“Besides, his issuance of such is contemptuous in nature for such issuances. It would be better if he will keep his mouth shut by simply respecting the court. However if De Vera can present to us an order from the court with finality, we will abide by the order,” Cañete said.

Cañete also wondered why they only received the Court of Appeal’s decision last August 8, while CHED received theirs last April.

“Nahibung mi ngano karon lang mi gipadalhan sa decision nga ang CHED gihatagan sa order pag April. We would have filed the motion for reconsideration during that month,” Cañete added.

It can be recalled that CHED chairman J. Prospero De Vera issued an order last August 8 that it will not recognize the degree programs offered by the Cañete-backed MCC located at H. Abellana Street, Barangay Basak, Mandaue City.

The CHED added that graduates of the Cañete-run MCC are not allowed to take licensure examinations administered by the Philippine Regulation Commission in accordance with Joint CHED-PRC Circular Number 01, Series of 2010.

In a statement, De Vera said that the MCC that Cañete is operating is  not affiliated with the MCC located at the Mandaue City Cultural and Sports Complex, Don Andres Soriano Avenue, Centro, Mandaue City and is currently headed by Atty. Ernesto C. Maringuran.

De Vera, in a Notice to the Public on July 9, said the Cañete-run MCC “has no legal or juridical personality for lack of government permit or authority from the Commission”.

De Vera said that this is based from the Court of Appeals – Sixth Division decision affirming the earlier decision of Regional Trial Court Branch 216 of Quezon City.

To recall, CHED initially issued a closure order against the Cañete-run MCC last December 3, 2010.

De Vera has advised students currently enrolled at the Cañete-run MCC to transfer to any CHED-recognized higher education institutions.

He also ordered the CHED Regional Office VII to assist the affected students. (FREEMAN)