1.In answer to numerous inquiries and due to recent developments affecting Philippine schools abroad, the following clarificatory guidelines are hereby issued:

1.1  On the operation of schools not authorized/licensed by the host government

— It is reiterated that DECS accreditation shall only be given to Philippine schools abroad when the host government has issued an authorization for the operation of said schools;

— Schools which have been previously given a Permit to Operate by DECS would still need to obtain the authorization from the host government. Failure to submit such authorization on or before April 30, 1998 automatically revokes the DECS permit; and

— With the revocation of the DECS permit, educational credits/diplomas/ certificates from these schools shall not be recognized in any school in the Philippines/Philippine schools abroad.

1.2  On tutorial programs

— Only educational credits acquired from Philippine schools abroad will be duly accredited by DECS for purposes of transfer or issuance of diploma/certificate;

—  Tutorial classes are not recognized by DECS and cannot be used to substitute for subjects taken in the formal education program. They cannot earn educational credits for students. In this regard, schools in the Philippines are not authorized to grant educational credits to students who attended tutorial classes abroad; and

—  Schools, either in the Philippines or abroad, which are found to be violating this policy, shall be dealt with accordingly.

2. Immediate and widest dissemination of this Order is directed.

Adopted: 23 March 1998

(SGD.) ERLINDA C. PEFIANCO
Secretary