The House of Representatives recently approved HB 4958, which establishes a Commission on Higher Education (CHED) office in Negros Occidental. Bacolod City lone district Rep. Greg Gasataya, who authored the bill, confirmed the proposal passed its third and final reading and is now pending before the Senate.
The congressman said a CHED office is essential as there are currently 60 colleges and universities across Negros Occidental. In addition, he also believes the office should be set up in Bacolod City.
“A CHED office situated in Bacolod City will allow a [relatively] large number of college students to easily avail of any academic grants that CHED may offer,” he explained.
Gasataya also noted, a provincial office would expedite the processing of special orders and other requirements pertinent to professional board exams and bar exams. Additionally, he pointed out, it would reduce processing expenses.
He added, it will be easier access to various CHED services, which the congressman believes would contribute to a more effective and efficient educational system./DGB, WDJ