Manila: President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has underscored the transformative potential of the Expanded Tertiary Education Equivalency and Accreditation Program (ETEEAP) Act, which offers millions of Filipinos the chance to earn a college degree without attending a traditional classroom setting. Speaking at the ceremonial signing of the law's Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR) at Malaca±an Palace, Marcos stressed the significance of formally recognizing skills and knowledge gained through work experience, self-learning, and non-formal education.

According to Philippines News Agency, the ETEEAP Act, signed into law by Marcos in March 2025, provides a structured avenue for individuals to convert their work competencies into academic credits, enabling them to obtain degrees. This initiative is particularly aimed at skilled workers such as caregivers, mechanics, technicians, and entrepreneurs, who have demonstrated their abilities but lack formal academic credentials.

During his address, Marcos highlighted the law's role in acknowledging prior learning from professional experience and self-taught skills, aligning them with academic standards. He emphasized the importance of flexible educational approaches, including online learning, to cater to the diverse backgrounds and learning styles of ETEEAP applicants.

The President also pointed out the economic and professional advantages the law offers, such as access to higher positions and better income, while encouraging educational institutions to embrace inclusivity and diverse forms of intelligence. To ensure effective implementation, Marcos instructed the Commission on Higher Education and partner agencies to closely monitor the program's progress and ensure it benefits its intended recipients.