The Our Lady of Fatima University (OLFU) has been formally recognized by the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) as one of only 10 private higher education institutions (HEIs) nationwide deputized to implement the Expanded Tertiary Education Equivalency and Accreditation Program (ETEEAP) under the new law and updated CHED Memorandum Order (CMO) No. 11, series of 2025.
The recognition underscores OLFU’s exemplary compliance with the strengthened guidelines governing ETEEAP implementation, positioning the University among a select group of institutions entrusted with advancing flexible and accessible tertiary education pathways for Filipino adult learners.
Formal Recognition at CHED Anniversary Celebration
The Certificate of Recognition was conferred on 10 June 2026 during the 32nd CHED Anniversary Celebration and Strategic Partnership Convergence held at the Philippine International Convention Center (PICC) in Pasay City.
Representing the University during the awarding ceremony were OLFU ETEEAP Director Dr. Ignacio C. Cordova Jr. together with ETEEAP Assistant Director Armando G. Enalan Jr. Dr. Cordova also serves OLFU’s Dean of the College of Business and Accountancy (CBA) and College of Hospitality and Institutional Management (CHIM).
The certificate recognized OLFU’s “invaluable contribution to the advancement of lifelong learning and inclusive higher education” through its active and exemplary implementation of ETEEAP, which enables the recognition, validation, and accreditation of competencies acquired through prior learning, work experience, and other lifelong learning engagements.
Signed by CHED Chairperson Dr. Shirley C. Agrupis, the recognition emphasized OLFU’s role as an ETEEAP-deputized HEI under CMO No. 11, s. 2025, highlighting its commitment to providing “accessible, flexible, and quality higher education opportunities” for adult learners. It further noted the institution’s contribution to workforce development, human capital formation, and the advancement of a knowledge-driven society aligned with national development goals.
Institutional Commitment to Lifelong Learning
In his statement, Dr. Cordova emphasized the University’s commitment to maintaining academic rigor and integrity in implementing the program.
“This CHED recognition affirms OLFU’s steadfast commitment to excellence in ETEEAP implementation. At OLFU, we ensure that prior learning, work experience, and lifelong learning are assessed with rigor, fairness, and academic integrity, so that every recognized competency reflects true quality and credibility,” he said.
He further outlined the institution’s strategic direction moving forward, emphasizing strengthened quality assurance mechanisms and expanded collaboration.
“Moving forward, our direction is clear: to further strengthen quality assurance, deepen industry and community partnerships, and expand flexible, inclusive pathways for adult learners—positioning OLFU’s ETEEAP as a model of lifelong learning, academic integrity, and future-ready higher education,” Dr. Cordova added.
Advancing a National Lifelong Learning Agenda
With its inclusion among the select group of deputized institutions under the revised ETEEAP framework, OLFU strengthens its position as a key partner of CHED in promoting flexible education pathways. The recognition affirms the University’s sustained efforts in aligning academic programs with industry needs and in supporting adult learners seeking formal academic credentials through experiential learning.
As CHED continues to advance its lifelong learning agenda under a future-ready higher education framework, OLFU’s role as an accredited ETEEAP implementer underscores its contribution to expanding educational access and strengthening national human capital development.
Story by Raymond Lumagsao
