PRC Hosts Key Meeting to Align Philippine Qualifications with ASEAN Standards

Manila, Philippines – The Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) recently hosted the Third Party Comparison Workshop and the 16th ASEAN Qualifications Reference Framework (AQRF) Committee Meeting at the Diamond Hotel, Manila, from February 9 to 11, 2026. The event signifies the Philippines’ continued commitment to regional cooperation in professional regulation and education.

Advancing Regional Qualifications Frameworks

The three-day gathering brought together representatives from ASEAN Member States, education authorities, and qualifications experts. The primary goal was to advance the alignment of national qualifications frameworks across Southeast Asia, fostering transparency and comparability [ASEAN Qualifications Reference Framework].

Technical Visit to TESDA

Delegates participated in a technical visit to the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) to gain insights into the Philippines’ Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) system. The visit focused on quality assurance mechanisms and the practical application of national qualifications frameworks.

Key Objectives and Outcomes

The event served as a crucial platform for evaluating how national qualifications systems compare to established ASEAN standards. This comparability is essential for promoting workforce mobility and the mutual recognition of professional qualifications throughout the region. The PRC, under the leadership of Chairperson Hon. Charito A. Zamora, emphasized the importance of quality assurance in professional regulation and education.

Philippines’ Role in ASEAN Integration

The PRC’s hosting of this event underscores the Philippines’ active role in building an integrated, competitive, and globally aligned ASEAN workforce. The initiative aims to establish a workforce grounded in excellence and shared regional goals [PRC Hosts Regional Engagement].

About the ASEAN Qualifications Reference Framework

The ASEAN Qualifications Reference Framework (AQRF) is a common reference framework designed to enable comparisons of educational qualifications across participating ASEAN Member States.