The following is the speech made by this writer on the occasion of the 31st Commission on Higher Education Regional Office 8 Anniversary, held at St Paul School of Professional Studies at Mary Ngo Auditorium Palo Leyte. The speech uses a management tool called PESTLE Analysis. A PESTLE analysis examines Political, Economic, Social, Technological, Legal, and Environmental factors influencing an organization or region. Here is how the Commission on Higher Education Regional Office 8 (CHEDRO-8) impacts Eastern Visayas through this lens:

Honorable Maximo C. Aljibe Regional Director of CHDRO 8, SUC, LUC and Private HEI Leaders, esteemed educators, dedicated public servants, and the vibrant youth of Eastern Visayas.

Today, we gather not just to reflect on the progress of our beloved region but to pay tribute to the unwavering force behind much of our advancement—the Commission on Higher Education Regional Office 8 (CHEDRO-8). This institution is not merely an administrative body; it is a catalyst for growth, a beacon of hope, and a foundation upon which the dreams of thousands are built.

A PESTLE analysis examines Political, Economic, Social, Technological, Legal, and Environmental factors influencing an organization or region. Here is how the Commission on Higher Education Regional Office 8 (CHEDRO-8) impacts Eastern Visayas through this lens:

PESTLE Analysis of CHEDRO-8’s Impact on Socioeconomic Status & Human Development in Eastern Visayas

Politics: The Guiding Hand of Educational Governance

Under CHEDRO-8’s watch, education is not just a privilege—it is a right, protected by policies that ensure academic excellence and accessibility. The commission works tirelessly to align our institutions with national mandates, forging partnerships that uplift our universities and colleges. Its leadership ensures that our region stands shoulder to shoulder with the rest of the nation in academic prestige and integrity.

Economy: The Engine of Prosperity

Education is the most powerful economic equalizer, and CHEDRO-8 holds the keys to unlocking opportunities for every student in Eastern Visayas. By certifying quality programs and ensuring graduates are equipped with industry-ready skills, it directly contributes to the employability and innovation that fuel our local economy. Its initiatives do not just shape individuals—they shape communities, bringing forth new enterprises, stronger livelihoods, and a brighter future for all.

Society: The Heartbeat of Human Development

CHEDRO-8’s impact resonates in every home, every school, and every workplace. It stands as a force for inclusivity, ensuring that education is accessible to all—regardless of status, background, or circumstance. It empowers the marginalized, uplifts the disadvantaged, and strengthens our social fabric, cultivating leaders who drive Eastern Visayas toward progress.

Technology: The Gateway to Innovation

In an ever-changing world, CHEDRO-8 is our bridge to the future. It champions digital transformation, integrating technology into our learning systems and preparing students for industries driven by innovation. It understands that education must evolve, ensuring that our graduates do not just adapt to change—they lead it.

Law: The Guardrail of Excellence

CHEDRO-8 does not simply promote education; it safeguards its quality. Through rigorous certification and strict compliance with national academic standards, it preserves the integrity of our institutions. It demands nothing but excellence—because the future of Eastern Visayas depends on it.

Environment: The Steward of Sustainability

CHEDRO-8 recognizes that education is not only about intellectual growth but also environmental responsibility. It supports universities in fostering sustainability, research, and advocacy, ensuring that our region thrives not only academically but ecologically.
A Future Forged by CHEDRO-8’s Dedication

So today, let us not merely acknowledge CHEDRO-8’s contributions—let us celebrate them. Let us recognize the immense role it plays in shaping our economy, strengthening our society, and elevating Eastern Visayas to greater heights.

To CHEDRO-8, as headed by Director Maximo Aljibe and the able and sturdy force in the Supervisors and Public Servants at CHED , we thank you. For your vision, your diligence, and your commitment to a future where every student holds the key to success. For us , the Association of Local Colleges and Universities Region *8 ,You are not just an institution—you are an inspiration.

Let us stand united, working hand in hand with CHEDRO-8, ensuring that education remains the driving force behind our region’s unstoppable progress.

Mabuhay ang CHED Regional Office 8! Mabuhay ang Eastern Visayas!

The midterm election is over but issues remain in the public mind, chief of them the action by the election commission against candidates who it caught taking liberty at poking sexist statements against their opponents or against the dignity and honor of women. In what the Philippine Commission Women commended as a firm action by the election commission second division in disqualifying Mr. Christian de Guzman Sia as a congressional candidate of the lone district of Pasig City. This disqualification was based on violations of anti-discrimination and fair campaigning guidelines, underscores the importance of upholding gender equality and respectful public discourse during elections.

In its statement following the aforesaid firm action by the election commission, it urged political aspirants to study the provisions of Republic Act 11313 known as the Safe Spaces Act and Republic Act 9710 known as the Magna Carta for Women and other legal provisions, with the invitation reach out to their office for further guidance. On its face, the action is laudable insofar as protecting the rights of women are concerned. But a revisit to the abovementioned laws defines the punishable acts through unwanted remarks directed towards a person, commonly done in the form of wolf-whistling and misogynistic, transphobic, homophobic, and sexist slurs. The provision is general but does not include with specificity political campaigns.

On the other hand, there is the fundamental principle in our constitution, statement unequivocally in section 4 of article 3 better known as the bill of rights which states that “No law shall be passed abridging the freedom of speech, of expression or of the press, or the right of the people peaceably to assemble and petition the government for redress of grievances.” Very clearly, the laws upon which the election commission based its action must not violate the constitution. But the regulatory actions of the election commission and the laws it relied upon are clear curtailments of the fundamental freedom of expression. It acted not just as a regulatory body as it usurped a primarily judicial function when it declared the candidates’ statements as violative of its regulations and the laws cited above.

While the intention may be considered good, it cannot be justified in curtailing the right of the people to speak freely. With these actions, people are reminded of the dark days of martial law under the despotic rule of the conjugal partnership of Ferdinand Sr. and Imelda Marcos when during that time the regime boast that people can speak freely even against the dictatorship. But people shiver in fear and cower to the whims of the dictators with the thought that they have no freedom after speaking. People are well aware that even jokes against the dictatorship could send them to prison without any formal charges, warrant or trial. The supposed violators could find themselves behind bars, the unlucky ones just get lost in the middle of night or sent to the great beyond.

We are confronted these days under the rule of the magical president who is the namesake of his dictator father, with a regulation that is protected by the fundamental provision of the constitution regarding the people’s freedom of expression.

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