THE Commission on High Education (CHED) yesterday issued a public advisory against individuals or groups attempting to entice enrollees to acquire college diplomas through the Expanded Tertiary Education Equivalency and Accreditation Program (ETEEAP) despite lack of authority.
It cautioned those who are interested in pursuing a college program through ETEEAP to first verify that the higher education institution (HEI) they choose is duly authorized or deputized by the CHED.
“It has come to our attention that there have been unauthorized entities offering higher education programs through the Expanded Tertiary Education Equivalency and Accreditation Program (ETEEAP). The Commission on Higher Education (CHED) emphasizes the importance of enrolling only in HEIs duly authorized/deputized to offer ETEEAP degree programs,” the Commission said.
It said the list of deputized HEIs offering college courses under ETEEAP may be accessed on its official website. The most recent list available was updated as of December 2023 and includes 110 private HEIs and state universities and colleges in all regions of the country.
“The CHED recognizes the potential risks associated with unauthorized institutions, including concerns over program quality, legitimacy of credentials, and adherence to educational standards. Thus, we urge all prospective students to exercise due diligence in verifying the authorized/deputization status of any institution offering ETEEAP programs before enrolling,” said the CHED.
The Commission explains that the ETEEAP is a comprehensive educational assessment program at the tertiary level that recognizes, accredits and gives equivalencies to knowledge, skills, attitudes and values gained by individuals from relevant work.
A deputized HEI awards the appropriate college degree to a qualified enrollee who complies with all the requirements.
Based on the parameters provided by CHED, beneficiaries must be Filipinos who are at least high school graduates; must have worked for at least five years in the field or industry related to the academic program they are obtaining an equivalency; and must be able to show proof of proficiency, capability and thorough knowledge in the field applied for equivalency.
