By: Delaila Irma T. Calindas, Project Technical Staff II

In celebration of the 124th Philippine Civil Service Anniversary, the Commission on Higher Education – Unified Student Financial Assistance System for Tertiary Education (CHED-UniFAST) Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR), under the leadership of Regional Director Dr. Jimmy G. Catanes, conducted a seminar on public service values on September 29, 2025.

Hon. Vladimir D. Cayabas, Councilor of the City Government of Baguio, served as the Resource Speaker and delivered an insightful talk on “Upholding Public Service Values: Cultivating Continuous Growth and Service Excellence.” His discussion emphasized the essence of ethical leadership, accountability, and the continuing pursuit of excellence in government service.

In the afternoon session, the personnel were oriented on the mandates and strategic direction of the Commission under the leadership of CHED Chairperson Dr. Shirley C. Agrupis. Dr. Christopher C. Depnag, Education Supervisor II, presented CHED’s Vision, Mission, Mandates, and Office Policies, reinforcing the agency’s commitment to quality and inclusive higher education.

Following this, Dr. Catanes discussed the CHED ACHIEVE Framework, which encapsulates the Commission’s priorities and guiding principles:

A – Advanced and Accessible Lifelong Learning

C – Centralized One-Nation Human Capital Development

H – Harmonized SDG-Based Research and Innovation

I – Integrated Real-Time Data Collection and Analytics

E – Expanded and Impact-Driven Internationalization Strategies

V – Vitalized Policies, Internal Systems, and Governance

E – Effective and Efficient Public Service

The activity served not only as a culminating event for the Civil Service Month celebration but also as a meaningful reminder of CHED-UniFAST CAR’s commitment to excellence, integrity, and service to the Filipino people.