Question & AnswerQ&A (IRR Republic Act No. 11695)
The primary purpose of Republic Act No. 11695 is to strengthen Tarlac State University (TSU) by providing for the composition and powers of its Governing Board, prescribing its curricular offerings, and appropriating funds for its support.
The Governing Board, also known as the Board of Regents, is chaired by the CHED Chairperson and co-chaired by the University President, and includes: the Chairpersons of Senate and House committees on higher education, regional directors of NEDA and DOST, presidents of faculty, student, and alumni federations, a representative of non-teaching personnel, and two private sector representatives from Tarlac Province.
TSU is mandated to provide advanced instruction and professional training in various fields like literature, philosophy, science, technology, and arts; to undertake research, extension and production services; and to provide progressive leadership in its specialization areas.
TSU may offer undergraduate, graduate, and post-graduate courses in fields such as science and technology, medicine and allied health professions, law, business, arts and humanities, education, sports and human kinetics, public administration, social work, and other fields as deemed necessary by the Governing Board.
The Governing Board can promulgate policies, approve curricula and rules of discipline, appoint officials, fix salaries and fees, establish professional chairs, receive and appropriate funds, oversee admission and graduation policies, award honorary degrees, establish research centers, and enter into partnerships or joint ventures, among other powers.
The President is appointed by the Governing Board upon recommendation of a Search Committee. The appointment is signed by the CHED Chairperson or a designated CHED Commissioner and serves a term of four years, eligible for reappointment.
Applicants must be 35 years or older and not beyond retirement age, Filipino citizens, holders of earned doctorate degrees, with at least five years of experience as an SUC/LUC administrator or equivalent high-level management, and must not have convictions involving moral turpitude or serious administrative offenses.
The Governing Board holds regular meetings quarterly, and a quorum requires a majority of members holding office at the time, including either the Chairperson of the Board or the University President.
TSU may establish extension campuses within the same province or region with limited administrative personnel, as well as other campuses such as satellite, virtual, or external campuses as approved by the Governing Board.
No student shall be denied admission based on sex, gender preference, religion, political, cultural or community affiliation, or ethnic origin. Similarly, faculty appointments shall be based strictly on merit and fitness, without regard to political beliefs, gender, ethnicity or religion.