CHED RO XI Hosts Mindanao Zonal Consultation on Proposed CMOs on Health, Well-Being, and Anti-Hazing

Davao City— The Commission on Higher Education Regional Office XI (CHED RO XI), through the Office of Student Development and Services, successfully conducted the Mindanao Zonal Public Consultation on the proposed CHED Memorandum Orders (CMOs) on the Pathway to Health and Well-Being in Higher Education and Policies and Guidelines Against All Forms of Hazing on January 19–20, 2026 in Davao City.

The two-day activity gathered approximately 200 higher education institutions (HEIs) from Regions IX, X, XI, XII, and Caraga, providing a platform for collaborative discussions on strengthening student welfare, promoting healthy learning environments, and ensuring safe and secure campuses across Mindanao. As indicated in the official memorandum, designated participant slots were allocated per region to ensure balanced representation during the consultation .

The consultation forms part of CHED’s nationwide initiative to gather inputs from stakeholders in refining policies anchored on Republic Act 7722 or the Higher Education Act of 1994, as well as other relevant laws addressing mental health, physical well-being, and the prevention of substance abuse, HIV and AIDS, and hazing in higher education institutions. The activity also emphasized the importance of creating supportive and inclusive environments for students, particularly within HEI-based organizations such as fraternities and sororities .

Participants, particularly heads of institutions and student affairs officers, actively engaged in discussions, sharing insights, best practices, and recommendations to further enhance the proposed policies. The consultation also highlighted the need for stronger institutional mechanisms, preventive measures, and coordinated efforts to address emerging challenges related to student well-being and safety.

Through this Mindanao cluster consultation, CHED RO XI reaffirmed its commitment to inclusive and participatory policy development, ensuring that the voices of HEIs in Mindanao are heard and reflected in the final CMOs. The initiative underscores CHED’s dedication to fostering a safe, healthy, and supportive higher education environment for all learners.