Bill to limit terms of SUC presidents pushed

MANILA, Philippines - Two congressmen are pushing for a measure that seeks to limit the terms of overstaying presidents in state universities and colleges in the country.

COOP-NATCOO party-list Reps. Anthony Bravo and Cresente Paez are seeking to amend Republic Act (RA) 8292 or the Higher Education Modernization Act of 1997 to prevent SUC executives from clinging to their posts.

“RA 8292, provides for the uniform composition and powers of the governing boards as well as the manner of appointment and terms of office of the president of SUCs but does not yet prevent these officials from staying beyond their terms of office,” Bravo said.

The lawmakers said a big number of presidents and private sector representatives abuse their term limits by overstaying as 'hold-over' or 'caretaker' officials.

Under the bill, SUC presidents will have a term limit of four years. The officials cannot extend their terms but they can be eligible for reappointment.

"“If the succeeding president is not appointed on time, an officer in charge, other than the outgoing president shall be appointed,” the bill noted.