THE House of Representatives on Wednesday approved on third and final reading a bill aiming to convert into a regular campus the current extension campus of the Eastern Samar State University (ESSU) in Arteche town, Eastern Samar province.
The approval of House Bill (HB) 9772, also known as the proposed “Eastern Samar State University-Arteche Campus Act,” garnered an unanimous 222 votes from House members.
Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez, one of the principal authors of the measure, underscored the bill’s importance, emphasizing its potential impact on educational advancement and regional development.
“This bill signifies a significant step towards enhancing educational opportunities in Eastern Samar. The establishment of the ESSU-Arteche Campus will contribute to the human resource development needs of the province and Region VIII,” Speaker Romualdez, the leader of the 300-plus-strong legislative chamber, said.
Other authors of the measure include Representatives Yedda Marie Romualdez and Jude Acidre (Tingog Party-list), Maria Fe Abunda (Eastern Samar), Mark Go (Baguio City), alongside 42 other House members.
“The proposed law outlines key provisions, including the conversion of the extension campus into a regular campus offering short-term, technical-vocational, undergraduate, and graduate courses,” Rep. Yedda Romualdez for her part said.
Rep. Yedda Romualdez said the campus is expected to focus on competencies and specializations aligned with regional development needs.
She emphasized the importance of the ESSU-Arteche Campus in supporting socio-economic development through research, extension services, and production activities.
“This campus is not just about education; it’s about becoming a catalyst for progress in the region. It will play a vital role in providing leadership in research and development,” Rep. Yedda Romualdez said.
The bill also addresses administrative aspects, stating that the ESSU-Arteche Campus will be headed by a Campus Administrator appointed by the Board of Regents.
The compliance with the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) requirements and the transfer of assets, personnel, and records from the extension campus to ESSU are detailed in the legislation.
Regarding funding, the bill includes provisions for financial assistance from the Municipality of Arteche until the necessary budget is included in the annual General Appropriations Act.
“Financial support is crucial for the smooth transition and sustained operation of the ESSU-Arteche Campus. We appreciate the commitment of the Municipality of Arteche in this regard. Congress also stands ready to provide support in this endeavor,” Speaker Romualdez said.
The House chief expressed enthusiasm about the prospective benefits the bill could bring to the people of Eastern Samar once enacted into law.
“This legislation is a testament to our commitment to advancing education and regional development. We anticipate the positive impact of the ESSU-Arteche Campus on the future of Eastern Samar and its residents,” he said.
The bill will now be forwarded to the Senate for consideration.
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