Xavier University - Ateneo de Cagayan recently achieved a significant milestone being granted Autonomous Status by the Commission on Higher Education (CHED). XU President Mars P Tan, SJ, and Dr Juliet Q Dalagan, Vice President for Higher Education, received the award at the Philippine International Convention Center (PICC) on 24 November 2024. This is a prestigious and the highest recognition awarded by CHED to higher education institutions (HEIs) in the Philippines. This accolade reflects Xavier University's commitment to academic excellence, innovation, and nation-building.

Fr Mars P Tan, SJ and Dr Juliet Q Dalagan pose
with the Autonomous Award Plaque

Ninety-two (92) HEIs were granted a three-year autonomous and deregulated status, with seventy-seven (77) of these institutions receiving autonomous status. In Region X, three universities were awarded autonomous status: Xavier University, Capitol University, and Misamis University. According to CHED, this status will remain in effect until September 2027.

Xavier University President Fr Mars P Tan SJ and VPHED Dr Juliet Q Dalagan received the
Autonomous Award from CHED Chair Dr Prospero E de Vera III, in the presence of CHED and
government officials, Rep Mark Go of Baguio City and Rep Maria Theresa Collantes of Batangas.

What are Autonomous and Deregulated Status?

Autonomous status is awarded to higher education institutions (HEIs) that demonstrate exceptional performance in governance, teaching, research, and community service. This status provides institutions with greater flexibility in their academic operations, allowing them to:

- Design and implement new academic programs without prior approval from the Commission on Higher Education (CHED).

- Offer extension classes and degree programs at off-campus locations.

- Grant honorary degrees.

- Develop policies for faculty and student development.

Autonomous Award Plaque

This autonomy not only recognizes the institution's excellence but also presents a challenge to maintain its leadership in the education sector.

In contrast, deregulated status is granted to HEIs that meet specific criteria established by CHED and exhibit exceptional quality. This status signifies both autonomy and excellence in academic and operational performance.

The Presidents and senior university officials of Xavier University, Capitol University, and
Misamis University with CHED R10 officials received the Autonomous Awards.

 

Key Features of Deregulated Status:

1. Greater Autonomy: Institutions with deregulated status enjoy increased freedom in curricular, administrative, and financial matters. This includes the ability to revise academic programs and establish partnerships with other institutions without prior CHED approval.
2. Reduced Monitoring: These institutions face less frequent and less stringent regulatory oversight from CHED.
3. Prestige: The status serves as recognition of the institution’s high-quality education, effective governance, and financial stability.
4. Grant Opportunities: Institutions with deregulated status may receive priority access to government subsidies, grants, or funding programs.

Both autonomous and deregulated statuses highlight an institution's commitment to educational excellence and innovation.

Ateneo de Davao, Ateneo de Naga, Ateneo de Manila, Ateneo de Zamboanga, and 
Xavier University Presidents and lay leaders at the PICC Awarding Ceremony.

All Ateneo schools in the country have been granted Autonomous or Deregulated Status. The Jesuit schools were represented by their Presidents and senior university officials at the Awarding Ceremony.