Question & AnswerQ&A (Republic Act No. 9403)
The Bataan Peninsula State University (BPSU) is formed by converting the Bataan Polytechnic State College and integrating it with its campuses — Bataan Community Colleges in Balanga, Bataan National School for Filipino Craftsmen in Orani — and the Bataan State College in Dinalupihan.
The main campus of Bataan Peninsula State University is located in the City of Balanga, Province of Bataan.
The University shall primarily provide advanced instruction and professional training in education, engineering, science and technology, arts and humanities, computer and forestry, and other relevant fields, and undertake research, extension services and production activities supporting socioeconomic development of Bataan, providing progressive leadership in its specializations.
The University shall offer undergraduate and graduate courses in education, engineering, science and technology, arts and humanities, computer and forestry, and other degree courses as the Board of Regents deems necessary to meet the needs of Bataan and Region III. Existing high schools under the University shall be transferred to the Department of Education jurisdiction.
The Board of Regents is composed of: Chairperson of CHED (chair), University President (vice chair), Chairpersons of Senate and House Committees on Education, regional directors of NEDA and DOST, presidents of the federations of faculty, student councils, alumni associations, and two prominent private sector citizens appointed by the Board.
The Board has powers including promulgating rules, appropriating funds, fixing tuition fees, accepting donations, appointing officials, approving curricula, setting admission policies, awarding honorary degrees, establishing research centers, collaborating with other institutions, and entering joint ventures, among others.
The Board shall meet at least once every quarter, with special meetings called by the chairperson with prior notice. A quorum consists of a majority of members with the chairperson of CHED or the University president present.
The University President is appointed by the Board upon a search committee's recommendation, serving a four-year term with eligibility for one reappointment. The incumbent president of the former Bataan Polytechnic State College, if qualified, becomes the first president of the University.
The University shall enjoy academic freedom and institutional autonomy pursuant to the Philippine Constitution, specifically paragraph 2, Section 5 of Article XIV, ensuring independence in academic and administrative matters.
Faculty appointments shall not inquire into political beliefs, gender, culture, or religion but must adhere to Board guidelines and standards. Faculty shall not teach for or against any particular religious sect.
The University shall provide scholarships and affirmative action programs to assist poor but deserving students. Admission shall not be denied based on sex, religion, cultural or ethnic origin.
All assets, liabilities, personnel, and records of the integrated institutions are transferred to the University. Faculty and personnel rights and tenure are respected. Government lands occupied shall be titled under the University's name but revert to LGUs if no longer used or the University ceases to exist.
Within 120 days after approval, the University shall submit a five-year development plan and budget to CHED, undergo a management audit with CHED cooperation, and establish its organizational, administrative, and academic structures including key appointments.
The Board fixes tuition and school charges after consultations. Fees and government subsidies are special trust funds deposited in government banks, used for University programs. The Board may adopt a socialized tuition scheme for poor students.
The separability clause provides that if any part is declared invalid or unconstitutional, the remaining provisions shall continue to be in full force and effect.