Question & AnswerQ&A (Republic Act No. 8498)
The main purpose of Republic Act No. 8498 is to establish the Ramon Magsaysay Technological University through the integration of the Ramon Magsaysay Polytechnic College, Western Luzon Agricultural College, and the Candelaria School of Fisheries, all located in the Province of Zambales, and to appropriate funds for this purpose.
The Ramon Magsaysay Technological University is formed by the integration of the Ramon Magsaysay Polytechnic College in Iba, Western Luzon Agricultural College in San Marcelino, and the Candelaria School of Fisheries in Candelaria, all in the Province of Zambales.
The University shall primarily provide instruction, undertake research and extension, and provide advanced studies and progressive leadership in agriculture, forestry, engineering, education, arts, sciences, humanities, and other relevant fields for the development of the province.
The University is authorized to offer undergraduate, graduate, and short-term technical courses within its areas of specialization as deemed necessary by the Board of Regents to carry out its development objectives.
The Board of Regents includes: Chairman of CHED (chair), University President (vice-chair), Chairmen of Senate and House Committees on Education, Regional Director of NEDA, Presidents of federations of faculty associations, student councils, and alumni associations, and two prominent citizens from the locality of the University.
The Board has powers to promulgate rules and regulations, appropriate funds, receive donations, fix tuition fees, authorize construction, appoint officials, fix salaries, approve curricula, award honorary degrees, establish branches, develop linkages, delegate powers, authorize external audits, and extend the President's term under certain conditions, among others.
The President of the University is appointed by the Board upon recommendation of a duly constituted search committee and holds office for a term of four years, renewable for one additional term, unless reaching compulsory retirement age, removal for cause, or incapacity.
No religious opinion or affiliation shall be a matter of inquiry in faculty appointments. Faculty members are prohibited from teaching for or against any particular church or religious sect.
The University shall enjoy academic freedom.
The Board must file a detailed report with both Houses of Congress on or before the fifteenth day of the second month after the opening of regular classes each year, covering the progress, condition, and needs of the University.