PUP says veto of Nat’l Polytechnic University bill a setback to inclusive higher education

The Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP) expressed deep disappointment over President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.'s veto of the National Polytechnic University (NPU) Bill. PUP stated the veto threatens the future of its regional campuses and represents a setback for inclusive public higher education, calling it a rejection of efforts to expand access.

PUP explained that the bill, if signed, would have formally granted it national polytechnic university status, secured P100 million in annual support for five years, and provided greater institutional autonomy. The university emphasized this was not about prestige, but about resolving long-standing structural issues hindering its growth and modernization. It warned that without national funding, several regional campuses may face closure.

The university felt the veto message downplayed its achievements and dismissed its 120-year legacy, citing its consistent performance in rankings, Level III Institutional Accreditation from AACCUP, high civil service ratings, and strong compliance with transparency standards.

While the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) hasn't commented, PUP clarified that seeking NPU status wasn't a challenge to CHED's regulatory authority. It argued that institutional autonomy would empower PUP to innovate and modernize while remaining accountable to national standards, asserting that autonomy and regulation can coexist.

PUP operates numerous campuses across Luzon, many established via Presidential Decree No. 1341 in underserved regions. It urged the national government to reconsider the veto, stressing that every day without the legislation treats education as a privilege instead of a right.

Malacañang confirmed the President's veto, with a Presidential Communications Office official stating the reason was PUP's failure to comply with a long-standing requirement for institutional assessment mandated since 2016, with no proof the evaluation was completed.