Law Summary

Introduction

This document, issued by President Ferdinand E. Marcos on December 28, 1978, establishes a National Polytechnic System for Technical and Technician Education in the Philippines. It integrates state-supported institutions to enhance the development of technical manpower essential for national progress.

National Policy Declaration

• Legal Principle: The national government declares a commitment to ensure a continuous stream of technician graduates with technical capabilities.
• Key Definitions:
  • "Technician Graduates": Individuals possessing skills and education in technical fields.
• Requirements: The government will provide organizational and budgetary support to educational institutions involved in technical education.
• Consequences: A failure to integrate resources may result in inefficiencies in producing qualified technical manpower.

Establishment of Prototype Institutions

• Legal Principle: The document recognizes the establishment of three prototype technician institutes and ten Regional Manpower Training Centers under the National Manpower and Youth Council.
• Important Details:
  • Institutes Established: Manila Technician Institute, Bacolod Technician Institute, and Iligan Institute of Technology.
  • Centers Established: Ten Regional Manpower Training Centers supporting vocational training.
• Procedures: These institutions are to be integrated into the National Polytechnic System to maximize resource utilization.

Integration of Educational Institutions

• Legal Principle: A cohesive National Polytechnic System will be organized with the Technological University of the Philippines (TUP) as its apex.
• Key Definitions:
  • "Apex Institution": The leading institution in a system, responsible for coordination and oversight.
• Requirements:
  • TUP will administer the Manila and Bacolod Technician Institutes.
  • The Iligan Institute of Technology will come under the Mindanao State University but will require functional supervision from TUP.
• Consequences: Non-compliance with administrative structures may hinder effective training programs.

Transfer of Resources

• Legal Principle: All resources from the Manila and Bacolod Technician Institutes shall be transferred to TUP.
• Important Details:
  • This includes lands, buildings, facilities, equipment, appropriations, and personnel.
• Procedures: The resources of Regional Manpower Training Centers and trade schools will also be made available for the National Polytechnic System's use.

Strengthening of Technical Education Oversight

• Legal Principle: The Technical Panel on Technical Education under the Ministry of Education and Culture will be strengthened for improved education standards.
• Requirements:
  • The Minister of Education and Culture will coordinate with relevant agencies to implement effective policies and standards.
• Timeframe: The order is effective immediately upon issuance.

Implementation of Rules

• Legal Principle: The Minister of Education and Culture is responsible for promulgating implementing rules to ensure effective execution of the order.
• Important Details:
  • Rules should align with the purpose of enhancing technical/technician education and training.

Key Takeaways

• The Letter of Implementation No. 79 serves as a foundational document for integrating technical education institutions in the Philippines under one system.
• The Technological University of the Philippines is designated as the apex institution, directly overseeing vital technician institutes.
• A systematic approach to enhancing technical education is mandated, with a provision for immediate implementation and coordination among government agencies.
• The successful execution of this order relies on the effective transfer of resources and the establishment of improved policies and standards in technical education.