68 HEIs get autonomous Status

MANILA,Philippines — Sixty-eight private higher education institutions (HEIs) have been granted autonomous status by the Commission on Higher Education (CHED), according to a list released recently by the commission.

The autonomous status is valid until May 2021. The number of institutions was up from 62 that received similar recognition in 2016, which expired earlier this year.

Aside from the 68 HEIs covered by the new memorandum, three other universities – Ateneo de Manila, De La Salle and University of Santo Tomas – also have valid autonomous status recognition that will also expire in May 2021.

Meanwhile, 16 HEIs were granted deregulated status also valid until May 2021, up from the previous nine.

Autonomous HEIs are those that demonstrate instructional quality, excellent program outcomes through a high proportion of accredited programs and the presence of centers of excellence and/or development, according to CHED.

On the other hand, deregulated HEIs are those that demonstrate high institutional quality and enhancement, demonstrate good program outcomes through a high proportion of accredited programs, and has centers of excellence and/or development.

Autonomous and deregulated private HEIs receive benefits such as freedom from regular monitoring from CHED, priority in granting of subsidies, and privilege in determining their curricular programs.