The Filipino government establishes a coordinated framework to promote the country as a prime destination for international higher education, research, and academic exchange.
President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. has signed Executive Order No. 124, creating the Education Philippines (EduPhil) Program aimed at positioning the Philippines as a preferred hub for international students seeking higher education, research opportunities, and training. The program adopts a whole-of-government approach to facilitate and streamline the entry, stay, and educational experience of foreign students within the country.
The EduPhil Program emphasizes enhancing the Philippines’ global competitiveness by advancing academic cooperation, research collaborations, innovation partnerships, knowledge exchange, and fostering global engagement. This initiative recognizes the growing significance of international education as a driver for economic growth, innovation, cultural diplomacy, and human capital development.
An inter-agency EduPhil Task Force has been established to coordinate efforts nationwide, with the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) appointed as the lead implementing agency and secretariat of the task force. A dedicated EduPhil Portal will be set up to further simplify government services related to international student education.
Funding for the program’s initial implementation will be sourced from current appropriations allocated to CHED and other relevant agencies. Executive Secretary Ralph Recto signed the order on behalf of the President on September 8, 2026.
This new framework represents a strategic effort to attract more international students, thereby boosting the country’s educational sector, fostering cultural exchange, and strengthening the Philippines’ role in the global academic community.
Sources referenced:
- https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/topstories/nation/1002058/marcos-establishes-eduphil-program-to-attract-international-students/story/
