QuestionsQuestions (EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 252)
The IAC-PSO is composed of DECS, DFA, DOLE, OWWA, and CFO.
DECS chairs the committee, DFA co-chairs it, and CFO serves as the secretariat.
It serves as the policy-making body and forum for discussion and resolution of issues on the establishment, operation, and management of Philippine schools or educational programs overseas.
Examples of functions include: (1) developing policies and guidelines for establishment/operation/accreditation/regulation of overseas Philippine schools; (2) creating a system classifying overseas institutions using Philippine curriculum; (3) conducting studies on issues affecting overseas school operations; (4) providing inputs to DECS for standards and monitoring/evaluation; (5) holding regular meetings/consultations; (6) conducting site visits and ocular inspections; and (7) serving as arbiter for matters brought to it.
DECS must review and prescribe guidelines to maintain academic standards and improve efficiency; develop a classification system; establish qualification standards for school personnel; develop guidelines for supervision and disciplinary procedures; develop performance appraisal/reporting systems; and provide professional/technical/admin advice to overseas Philippine schools as requested.
DFA must coordinate with host governments for effective school operations; disseminate policies/guidelines of the IAC-PSO and DECS; accept and endorse applications to establish/operate such schools to DECS via CFO for accreditation/recognition; assist DECS in monitoring compliance; and advise school boards when necessary.
DOLE assists IAC and DECS in disseminating policies and guidelines, and generates interest among Filipino communities abroad in establishing/operating Philippine schools at overseas duty stations, providing needed assistance in the process.
OWWA provides advice on income-generating community projects supporting school operations; assists in obtaining donations and procurement/shipment of educational materials/equipment; may extend modest loan packages or subsidies for school projects subject to its board policies; assists DOLE/Philippine Mission in generating community interest; and helps disseminate policies and guidelines.
CFO provides secretariat support and keeps records; assists dissemination and coordinates inter-agency actions; develops researches to review/clarify/formulate policies; provides technical advice when requested; develops and maintains an information system on overseas Philippine schools and relevant host-country laws/regulations; and assists in obtaining donations for educational materials/equipment/facilities.
Section 4 states the IAC-PSO shall provide policy guidance, advice, assistance, and encouragement to Filipino communities overseas for establishment and operation of Philippine schools or educational programs overseas, as necessary or desirable.
Section 5 provides that expenditures, including costs of ocular inspections and honoraria, shall be charged against and provided for in the respective budgets of the member agencies.
They must formulate the necessary guidelines, as well as rules and regulations, to effectively implement the order.
It takes effect immediately.
DFA accepts applications and endorses them to DECS through the Commission on Filipinos Overseas (CFO) for accreditation and/or recognition.
Article XIV, Section 1 of the Constitution: the State shall protect and promote the right of all citizens to quality education at all levels and take appropriate steps to make education accessible to all.