The Mandaue City Government could save as much as P45 million every year after Mandaue City College (MCC) secured Institutional Recognition (IR) from the Commission on Higher Education (CHED).
This maks the college eligible for funding under the Unified Financial Assistance System for Tertiary Education (UniFAST).
CHED informed MCC of its approval through a letter dated March 2, 2026, confirming the institution’s recognition as a Higher Education Institution in accordance with CHED Memorandum Order No. 32, series of 2006.
The approval was granted during the 683rd Regular Commission en banc meeting on February 23, 2026.
Institutional Recognition was the final requirement for MCC to qualify for UniFAST, after the college had already secured its Certificate of Program Compliance (COPC) for its academic programs.
Currently, while MCC students already enjoy free tuition, the Mandaue City Government covers the college’s operational expenses.
With CHED’s IR approval, MCC can now access UniFAST funding, allowing the city to redirect around P40 million to P45 million in annual expenses.
During a press briefing on March 5, 2026, Mayor Thadeo Jovito “Jonkie” Ouano said the anticipated savings could support initiatives addressing waste management challenges and rising fuel and diesel costs.
“Makatabang-tabang na ni sa syudad,” Ouano said.
MCC Administrator Dr. Joey Rivamonte said the college is preparing to apply for UniFAST funding for the next school year, which opens in June 2026.
“Since midterm naman ta karon, by May or June sa atong opening, maka-apply na ta sa atong UniFAST,” Rivamonte said.
The assistance program will help sustain free tertiary education for MCC students while reducing the financial burden on the city government.
MCC currently offers nine degree programs: three in Technology, two in Business, and four in Education.
Rivamonte said the amount of UniFAST funding will depend on enrollment, as the college will submit billing based on the number of students.
Mayor Ouano noted that MCC was previously ineligible for UniFAST because it lacked a recognized College Administrator, one of the requirements for Institutional Recognition.
After Rivamonte was appointed college administrator in October 2025, MCC was able to secure accreditation.
The city government also expects the development to allow MCC to increase student admissions and expand opportunities for local learners.
“Mas maayo nga mas daghan og admissions kay mas mudako pud ang ma-subsidize sa CHED pinaagi sa UniFAST para sa MCC,” Rivamonte said.
Ouano said the city aims to double MCC’s enrollment this year. Currently, the college has 2,600 students.
Once the dedicated MCC building in Barangay Looc is completed, the facility will be able to accommodate up to 5,200 students. (VCL)
