The Commission on Higher Education (CHED) organized “Upholding Compliance and Legitimacy: A Seminar on EO77, Series of 2019, and Safeguarding Against Predatory Journals and Conferences” on July 24, 2025, at Carlos Hilado Memorial State University (CHMSU), 3rd floor Engineering and Technology Green Building, drawing delegates from state universities and colleges across the Negros Island Region.
The day-long event featured expert presentations on critical issues facing Philippine higher education institutions, with particular emphasis on government travel policies and the growing threat of predatory academic publishers.
University President Noberto Magulabnan welcomed delegates from different universities and wished their stay to be productive and memorable during his opening remarks. He also emphasized the national significance of Executive Order 77 for both local and international academic travel.
After the welcome speech, Danebeth Narzoles, Officer-in-Charge and Chief Education Program Specialist serving as Internationalization Focal Person, opened the seminar by thanking President Magulabnan, the external relations staff, international organizations, and participating SUC representatives. Narzoles stepped in to deliver remarks originally scheduled for CHED Regional Director VI, Raul Alvarez Jr., demonstrating the collaborative nature of regional academic leadership.
Johnrev Guilaran, Associate Professor at the University of the Philippines Visayas Division of Social Sciences and Associate Editor, delivered the morning keynote on “Legitimate Practices and Safeguarding Against Predatory Journals and Conferences.” Guilaran’s presentation addressed the increasing sophistication of predatory publishers and conference organizers who exploit academic researchers seeking publication opportunities.
The afternoon session featured Benjie Ignacio, Senior HR Specialist with the Civil Service Commission Field Office – Negros Occidental, who provided comprehensive guidance on Executive Order 77 Series of 2019. The executive order prescribes rules, regulations, and expense rates for official government personnel travel, both domestic and international – a critical issue for academic institutions managing faculty travel budgets.
Ignacio’s presentation proved particularly relevant as universities increasingly seek international partnerships and research collaborations requiring faculty travel abroad. The detailed guidance helps institutions ensure compliance with government regulations while maximizing educational opportunities.
The seminar concluded with remarks from Raul Alvarez Jr., REE, CESO III, Director IV of CHED Regional Office VI and XVIII (Negros Island Region), who emphasized the critical role of ongoing professional development in higher education.
The seminar reflects CHED’s ongoing commitment to providing timely professional development opportunities for academic administrators and faculty across the region. By addressing both regulatory compliance and academic integrity, the commission tackled two pressing challenges facing Philippine higher education in an increasingly globalized academic environment.
