University President Dr. Evaristo A. Abella joined Commission on Higher Education Chairperson, Dr. Shirley C. Agrupis, and selected presidents of top-performing State Universities and Colleges (SUCs) across the country during the 2025 Post-State of the Nation Address (SONA) discussions held earlier today, July 30 at the Makabagong San Juan National Government Center, San Juan City, Metro Manila.
The session centered on the theme ‘Education and Workers’ Welfare Development,’ as this topic received a significant attention in President Ferdinand Bongbong Marcos' SONA.
During the discussions, CHED Chair Agrupis affirmed that free education will continue and that, they are now ready to fulfill the President’s desire to ensure that every household has at least one college or techvoc graduate.
With this, President Abella expressed his commitment that CLSU will take part in this national movement by upholding the university’s mission to deliver quality education and exemplary service to its stakeholders.
Following the event, a brief meeting was conducted between CHED Chairperson Agrupis and SUC Presidents to discuss a potential collaborative project aimed at maximizing land resources for rice production, enabling SUCs to contribute to achieving rice sufficiency.
Heads and presidents of higher education institutions who also graced the event were UP Manila Chancellor Dr. Michael Tee, Nueva Vizcaya State University President Wilfredo Dumale, Mariano Marcos State University President Virgilio Julius Manzano, outgoing Isabela State University President Dr. Ricmar Aquino, and Teacher Education Council Executive Director Dr. Jennie Jocson. Also present were CHED Officials including CLSU Board of Regents Chair and Commissioner Desiderio R. Apag III.
