Philippines launches EduPhil program to draw overseas university students
President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. signed an executive order creating the EduPhil program, aimed at positioning the Philippines as a hub for international higher-education, research and training.
President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. issued Executive Order No. 124 to set up the Education Philippines (EduPhil) Program, a coordinated effort to market the country as a preferred destination for international students seeking university degrees, research opportunities and professional training. The initiative seeks to boost economic growth, innovation and cultural diplomacy through a digitally enabled, inter-agency system.
An EduPhil Task Force will oversee promotion and facilitation, with the Commission on Higher Education designated as the primary implementing body and task-force secretariat. A dedicated EduPhil Portal will be launched to centralise government services for foreign scholars. Initial costs will be covered by current CHED and related agency budgets, and Executive Secretary Ralph Recto signed the order on September 8, 2026.
Why it matters
The program could increase foreign student enrollment, generating revenue and enhancing the Philippines' global academic profile.
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