ETAAP Law a 'game-changer' for tertiary education, says Escudero

Senate President Francis Escudero has lauded the signing into law of the Expanded Tertiary Education Equivalency and Accreditation Program (ETEEAP) Act, describing the landmark legislation as a “game-changer” on the country’s tertiary education system.

President Ferdinand Marcos recently signed into law Republic Act (RA) No. 12124 or the ETEEAP Act, allowing individuals who have yet to finish their undergraduate degrees to use their work experience to earn a college diploma.

“This law addresses a pressing need for flexibility and inclusivity in our educational system. By recognizing the value of prior learning and work experience, we are creating a pathway for individuals to achieve their academic aspirations without having to sacrifice their careers or personal responsibilities,” Escudero said in statement issued Friday.

“I extend my gratitude to President Marcos for signing this transformative legislation into law. The ETEEAP Act is a game-changer, making higher education more accessible, especially to Filipinos who have gained significant skills and knowledge outside traditional classrooms,”  he said.

The ETEEAP Act allows Filipino citizens, whether residing in the Philippines or abroad, to apply for equivalency and accreditation, provided they meet the requirements.

To qualify for the program, an individual must be:

• A Filipino citizen whether residing in the Philippines or abroad
• At least 23 years old
• Has completed at least a secondary school program or successfully passed appropriate placement or assessment tests such as the Alternative System Accreditation and Equivalency Assessment and Certification
• Has at least five years of aggregate work experience in the industry related to the degree program or discipline where equivalency is sought.

For the implementation of the law, the Commission on Higher Education will deputize higher education institutions with academic degrees to be opened for the ETEEA

Meanwhile, the higher education institutions that will be tapped by CHED will be mandated to develop clear policies, procedures, and processes for the implementation of the ETEEAP. — Sundy Locus/RSJ, GMA Integrated News