Davao de Oro State College President Dr. Lilybeth M. Matunhay engaged with higher education leaders, policymakers, and development partners nationwide during the Strategic Partnership Convergence for the 32^nd Founding Anniversary of the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) on June 10, 2026, at the Philippine International Convention Center, Pasay City.

Themed “ACHIEVE-ing Knowledge Economy for a Future-Ready Bagong Pilipinas,” the gathering focused on the Commission’s more than three decades of advancing Philippine higher education.

Serving as highlight of the program was the State of the Higher Education Address by CHED Chairperson Dr. Shirley C. Agrupis, who outlined the Commission’s strategic directions, accomplishments, and priorities in steering the country toward a more responsive and globally competitive higher education landscape.

Another key part of the event was the ceremonial signing of the guidelines on the release of Free Higher Education deficiency funds for State Universities and Colleges, a significant step toward ensuring sustained access to quality, equitable, and inclusive higher education for Filipino learners.

Representing DdOSC alongside fellow State Universities and Colleges (SUCs) and Local Universities and Colleges (LUCs) presidents from the Davao Region, Dr. Matunhay underscored the importance of collective leadership and strategic partnerships in addressing emerging educational challenges and expanding opportunities for students across the region.

Moreover, Pres. Matunhay emphasized that DdOSC remains aligned with CHED’s vision of cultivating a knowledge-driven economy through quality instruction, innovative research, responsive extension programs, and transformative institutional governance.

INFO SOURCE: Executive Assistant Designate Maria Raye B. Madriaga