TACLOBAN CITY – Tingog party-list Representative Jude Acidre has been appointed as the new chairperson of the committee on higher and technical education at the House of Representatives, a key leadership role that positions him at the forefront of legislative efforts to shape the future of education in the country.
Acidre expressed deep gratitude for the appointment, calling it both an honor and a responsibility to help chart a more inclusive, responsive, and future-ready educational landscape.
“As chair, I aim to expand access, improve quality, and ensure that higher and technical education responds meaningfully to the needs of both our learners and the industries they will serve,” he said in a statement.
His new post builds on his work as commissioner of the Second Congressional Commission on Education (EDCOM 2), where he actively pushed for education sector reforms. That experience, he said, further strengthened his commitment to lasting, systemic change.
Acidre emphasized the importance of collaboration and dialogue among government agencies, particularly the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) and the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA), as well as academic institutions, civil society organizations, and other education stakeholders.
“We want to build a system that empowers every Filipino learner—regardless of background or circumstance—to thrive, contribute, and succeed,” Acidre said. “Ultimately, our goal is to ensure that no Filipino is left behind.”
As head of the House panel, Acidre is expected to play a major role in shaping education policies that support national development and address current gaps in access, affordability, and skills alignment in the higher and technical education sectors.
(LIZBETH ANN A. ABELLA)
