The Commission on Higher Education (CHED) applauds the reconstitution of the Executive Committee (ExeCom) of Executive Order (EO) No. 570, series of 2006, which institutionalizes peace education by integrating peace education concepts, skills, and values into the curricula of basic education and teacher education programs. CHED likewise reaffirms its steadfast commitment to advancing and institutionalizing peace education in the higher education sector.

To demonstrate this commitment, CHED Chairperson Dr. Shirley C. Agrupis ensured the Commission’s representation at the historic meeting held on February 11, 2026, by directing CHED Executive Director Atty. Cinderella Filipina Benitez-Jaro to attend on its behalf. During this meeting, the ExeCom of EO 570 formally reconvened for the first time since 2011.

Even prior to the issuance of EO 570 in 2006, the Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation and Unity (OPAPRU) had been coordinating with various organizations and government agencies, including CHED, to advance the integration of peace education in basic and teacher education nationwide.

In 2019, CHED issued CHED Memorandum Order (CMO) No. 1, series of 2019, titled “Integration of Peace Studies/Education into Relevant Higher Education Curricula.” This was followed by CMO No. 42, series of 2021, titled “Suggested Guiding Principles for Peace Studies/Education in Higher Education Institutions,” which further strengthened the framework for implementing peace education in higher education. More recently, in September 2025, CHED Chairperson Agrupis signed a Memorandum of Understanding with OPAPRU, the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA), and the Department of Education (DepEd), formalizing inter-agency collaboration to promote, integrate, and institutionalize peace education across the Philippine education system.

While the ExeCom has achieved significant milestones over the years, much work remains. The recent reconvening marks a renewed beginning in revitalizing and strengthening peace education across all levels of learning.

Aligned with the ACHIEVE Agenda, CHED’s continued commitment to institutionalizing peace education underscores its dedication to advancing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and promoting the core values of spirituality, human rights, non-violence, social justice, interfaith and intercultural solidarity, oneness with nature, and human security. These principles are embedded in CHED’s pursuit of accessible, inclusive, and lifelong learning for all.

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