Composition and Structure of the PCER
- Chaired by an individual with an outstanding record in education and proven integrity, appointed by the President.
- Members include:
- Secretary of Education, Culture and Sports
- Chairman of the Commission on Higher Education
- Director-General of Technical Education and Skills Development Authority
- Director-General of the National Economic Development Authority
- Representatives from private sectors such as Philippine Chamber of Commerce and private agriculture
- Representatives from Departments of Interior and Local Government, Science and Technology, Finance
- Representatives from University of the Philippines, state colleges and universities
- Superintendents, public and private school teachers, school associations
- Education Committee Chairmen of Congress (invited ex-officio)
- Secretariat headed by a full-time Executive Director, supported by staff from DECS, CHED, and TESDA.
- A working committee assists in education sector analysis.
Scope and Coverage of the PCER's Mandate
- The Commission has one year to develop a reform program covering:
- Curricula, teaching methods, instructional media, educational technologies, textbooks, language policy, school calendar at elementary and secondary levels.
- Modernization of science laboratories and improvement of science and mathematics education.
- Upgrading computer facilities and internet access in eligible schools.
- Expansion and modernization of vocational and technical institutions, especially polytechnic colleges.
- Development of distance learning and continuing education, especially for adults and out-of-school youth.
- Tuition financing schemes to align student purchasing power with actual tertiary education costs.
- Rationalization and alignment of programs in state universities and colleges (other than UP) with employment needs.
- Institutional improvements at the University of the Philippines aiming to become a top-ten university in Asia by 2008.
- Other emerging education concerns identified through research and consultations.
Procedures for Report and Recommendations
- The Commission bases its recommendations on:
- Analysis of Philippine education system.
- Review of existing research and secondary data.
- Extensive consultations with various sectors.
- Interviews with key stakeholders.
Timeline and Dissolution
- The Commission commences work immediately upon signing of the Executive Order.
- It must submit its final report and recommendations to the President within one year.
- Upon submission, the Commission is automatically dissolved.
Funding and Compensation
- DECS is mandated to provide an annual budget of ₱4 million from existing appropriations.
- Compensation for members on a monthly basis:
- Chairman: ₱10,000
- Two Vice-Chairmen: ₱5,000 each
- Eighteen Members: ₱3,000 each
- Executive Director (seconded basis): ₱30,000
Effectivity
- The Executive Order takes effect immediately upon signing.
- It was signed in Manila on December 7, 1998 by President Joseph Ejercito Estrada.
This Executive Order establishes an authoritative body to oversee and recommend reforms designed to modernize and improve the Philippine educational system in a structured, inclusive, and budget-conscious manner. It notably includes representatives from diverse sectors to ensure comprehensive policy perspectives and practical recommendations for legislative and executive action.