The Department of Tourism (DOT) and the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) signed a landmark Joint Administrative Order (JAO) on 24 March 2025. The agreement outlines how the Higher Education Development Fund (HEDF) will be used to support tourism education and related projects.
The signing ceremony took place at the National Museum of Natural History. Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco and CHED Chairperson J. Prospero E. De Vera III led the event. Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority (TIEZA) Assistant Chief Operating Officer Karen Mae Baydo also participated.
The HEDF will receive significant funding. TIEZA contributes 40%, the Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) 30%, and the Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO) 1%. The JAO details how these funds will be allocated.
This collaboration is crucial. The Tourism Act (Republic Act 9593) mandates prioritizing tourism-related projects and courses. The CHED Charter (Republic Act 7722) supports higher education strengthening. The JAO ensures both mandates are met.
The DOT recently reported strong tourism numbers. Where tourism contributed ₱3.7 trillion in 2023. This new funding will further boost the sector’s growth. It will support the development of tourism-focused academic programs. This will help train a skilled workforce for the thriving industry.
The JAO signifies a significant step. It strengthens the partnership between tourism and higher education. Both sectors will benefit from coordinated development and investment.
