Ched Chairperson Agrupis, 3 others face Ombudsman complaint over Program Closures, Alleged Bad Faith

Shirley C. Agrupis, Chairperson of the Commission on Higher Education (CHED), and four other CHED officials are facing a graft and administrative misconduct complaint from the Office of the Ombudsman in connection with the closure of several degree programs at campuses affiliated with a major private higher education network.

The complaint also names Agrupis' chief of staff and three regional directors, who oversee CHED operations throughout the country. The complaint accuses them of violating Section 3(e) of the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act, as well as grave misconduct, oppression, and conduct detrimental to the best interests of the service.

According to the complaint, CHED issued resolutions in early March 2026 ordering the closure or phase-out of several degree programs across the network's three campuses, citing noncompliance with regulatory requirements governing program administration, faculty, and facilities. The institution that runs the affected campuses claims it did not contest the closures. The complaint objects to how CHED handled the public rollout, specifically a series of advisories posted on CHED's official website and Facebook pages that directly named the affected campuses, with public comments left open on the posts.

The complaint claims that because the campuses operate under a single, well-known brand, the public misinterpreted the advisories as signaling the closure of the entire institution, rather than just a few programs at three of its approximately 150 campuses. Campus administrators across the network reportedly received a slew of panicked calls from students, parents, and partner institutions who believed the entire system was closing.

The complaint also alleges that between late April and early May 2026, the institution, through its representative, sent three separate written appeals to Chairperson Agrupis, requesting that CHED coordinate an orderly transition and refrain from further public dissemination while the matter was being resolved. Each letter reportedly received only an automated acknowledgment and no substantive response. Despite these requests, the complaint alleges that CHED re-published the advisories on Facebook in mid-May, this time with comments enabled, causing further reputational and financial harm during a critical enrollment period.

The complaint claims that the resulting damage was significant enough to elicit inquiries from the institution's bank and media coverage, as well as contribute to lost enrollment opportunities that may be difficult to fully recover.

Beyond the handling of its own case, the complaint alleges that CHED has applied regulatory standards unevenly. It cites public statements from a lawmaker and prior news reports indicating that hundreds of teacher education programs across the country were flagged for closure due to licensure exam performance, but were not treated with the same urgency and public scrutiny as the campuses at the center of this complaint. The complainant claims that vigorous, public action in one case and comparative inaction in others is evidence of bias.

The Ombudsman complaint is not the institution's sole legal action. The company has filed a complaint with the Anti-Red Tape Authority over CHED's alleged failure to respond to its appeals. They are also seeking an injunction in a Quezon City trial court to prevent further dissemination of the advisories and recover ₱20 million in moral damages.

More Miles Than Milestones? Agrupis' Foreign Trips Face Scrutiny

Shirley Agrupis, Chair of the Commission on Higher Education (CHED), is under fire for her frequent foreign engagements, raising questions about whether she has become the agency's most traveled chairperson in history—and what Philippine higher education has gained from her trips abroad.

Agrupis' increasingly visible presence at international meetings has piqued the interest of critics and education sector observers, who are now calling for greater transparency about the number, cost, and outcomes of her overseas trips.

Her latest trip to Paris has brought the issue back into focus.

Agrupis detailed the intense heat in the French capital on social media, stating that it was "too hard to tolerate/survive" with temperatures as high as 43 degrees Celsius.

The "world's famous City apparently is not ready or have not anticipated that climate change was coming," according to her general remarks regarding Paris' readiness for climate change.

Agrupis continued by pointing out that there was "practically NO place to hang on" in the heat due to the lack of air conditioning in residences, apartments, certain hotels, and public spaces.

The remarks raised eyebrows over the tone of a senior Philippine government official commenting publicly on conditions in a host country while attending an international engagement.

Agrupis ended her post with a call to action on climate change: “LET US save our planet EARTH.”

The post drew reactions online, including one social media user who remarked: “Let's save our planet earth tapos nag travel sa Paris. Hahaha.”

Beyond the social media exchange, however, questions over Agrupis' foreign travel remain.

Critics are questioning whether her overseas schedule has surpassed that of previous CHED chairpersons. A review and public disclosure of CHED's official travel records could reveal how many trips Agrupis has taken, the sources of funding, and the measurable outcomes of each engagement.

The head of CHED frequently travels abroad, especially as Philippine universities expand international partnerships and participate in regional and global education initiatives.

However, observers believe the frequency of such engagements should be matched by clear and tangible benefits to the country's higher education sector.

How many international trips has Agrupis taken since assuming office? How much money has been spent on these engagements, and what concrete programs, partnerships, or opportunities have emerged for Filipino students and institutions?

At a time when CHED is dealing with pressing domestic issues, the growing focus on Agrupis' international travel is unlikely to subside without greater transparency.

The records will reveal whether or not Agrupis is CHED's most traveled chairperson. The more important question is what Philippine higher education has gained from all of its travels.

How a Play Area Can Help Children Feel Less Afraid of Clinic Visits

For many kids, a trip to the clinic could be the start of a terrifying story. There are strangers, a waiting room, a new place, and the possibility of seeing a doctor. Not only is it challenging for parents to have their child examined, but it can also be challenging to help them remain calm throughout the procedure.

The Little Zions Pediatric Medical Group is changing clinic visits by making them feel less intimidating and more kid-friendly. Children can relax, play, and feel more comfortable in the designated play area at TLZ Pediatrics prior to a consultation.

At TLZ Pediatrics, the play area is more than just a charming feature. It is part of the clinic's overall goal to enhance children's and their families' waiting experiences.

Instead of sitting quietly and feeling nervous, children are welcomed into a setting that feels cozier and more familiar. They can concentrate better, feel less anxious, and be less overwhelmed by the clinic visit if they are in a fun area.

Parents' lives are also made easier by this. When the children are calmer, families can feel more at ease before going to the doctor. The visit becomes less stressful and more manageable, especially for younger patients who may be anxious in medical settings.

TLZ Pediatrics continues to stress the importance of kid-friendly healthcare facilities because of this. Children need more than just medical attention. They also need comfort, patience, and an environment that is sensitive to their feelings.

By creating a dedicated play area, the Little Zions Pediatric Medical Group helps children associate clinic visits with warmth, compassion, and positive experiences rather than fear. It's a simple concept, but it can have a big impact on how kids respond to medical treatment.

TLZ Pediatrics provides teleconsultation, nebulization, developmental assessment, pediatric consultation, vaccination, and other medical services to kids and families. Beyond the services, though, each clinic visit is meant to be more uplifting.

Because even a small play area can make kids feel much more comfortable and less scared when they visit a clinic.

To learn more about The Little Zions Pediatric Medical Group and its child-friendly healthcare experience, visit www.tlzpedia.com.

Agrupis undercuts Secretary Angara to lead Delegation in the ASEAN Education Ministers Conference Fuels Questions Over Power and Influence

Questions are again being raised over Agrupis' leadership style as government sources point to an apparent power struggle over who should head the Philippine delegation to the 14th ASEAN Education Ministers Meeting and related meetings scheduled in Singapore this July.

At the center of the dispute is a basic question of protocol: Who represents the Philippines as the country's lead education minister in ASEAN meetings?

A Department of Foreign Affairs communication dated July 6, 2026, addressed to Education Secretary Sonny Angara, states that the general protocol and practice is for the invited Minister to serve as Head of the Philippine Delegation.

The same communication notes that previous ASEAN Education Ministers Meeting records show that Ministers of Education represent their respective countries, while relevant education agencies such as CHED and the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority may form part of the delegation as members of the ASEAN Matters Technical Board and provide substantive inputs.

The official ASEAN calendar confirms that the 14th ASEAN Education Ministers Meeting is scheduled in Singapore in July 2026. ASEAN itself earlier announced that Singapore's Ministry of Education would host the meeting and related engagements. 

Yet according to sources familiar with the matter, Agrupis has allegedly been pushing to lead the Philippine delegation and take a central role in defining the country's position on issues to be discussed.

The reported insistence has supposedly caused friction and added headaches for officials at the DFA and DepEd, at a time when the Philippine government is already deeply engaged in ASEAN-related preparations and regional coordination.

Critics now ask whether this is still about representing higher education—or about one official's desire to occupy the most prominent seat at the table.

The controversy has also revived allegations from within CHED circles that Agrupis has projected herself as politically secure and “untouchable,” with sources claiming that she has repeatedly invoked her supposed closeness to First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos.

There is no publicly established evidence that the First Lady has extended such political protection to Agrupis. The claim of closeness and influence, however, is precisely what insiders say Agrupis herself has allegedly used to reinforce her authority.

That distinction is important. The issue is not whether Malacañang has declared Agrupis untouchable—it has not. The question is whether a government official is invoking perceived proximity to the First Lady to create that impression among subordinates and fellow officials.

Against this backdrop, Agrupis' frequent appearances at overseas education engagements are also drawing closer scrutiny.

Her own recent social media post from Paris showed images of the French capital and included a remark about the city's heat wave. The post was later publicly mocked by a social media user who wrote, “Let's save our planet earth tapos nag travel sa Paris. Hahaha.”

International participation is part of the work of a CHED chairperson. But critics argue that the frequency and visibility of Agrupis' foreign engagements deserve examination, particularly as questions over governance and leadership continue to follow her at home.

Agrupis has, in fact, recently taken visible roles in regional higher education engagements, including ASEAN-related initiatives where CHED has promoted its ACHIEVE Agenda and Philippine higher education priorities. 

But the Singapore dispute raises a different question.

When official protocol points to the Education Secretary as head of the Philippine delegation, why is the CHED chair reportedly insisting on taking the lead?

For critics, the answer may lie in a leadership style increasingly associated with visibility, control and the projection of influence.

And if allegations that Agrupis invokes her supposed closeness to the First Lady are true, Malacañang may eventually have to confront an uncomfortable question: Is the First Lady's name being used to make a government official appear beyond accountability?

CHED Employees Allege Fear, Favoritism, and Wasted Resources Under Agrupis

Employees of the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) have filed administrative and ethics complaints against Chairperson Shirley C. Agrupis, accusing her of abusing her authority and instilling fear within the agency.

The employees' main concern is Agrupis' reported claim that she has a close relationship with First Lady Liza A. Marcos. According to employees, Agrupis has used this alleged closeness to give the impression that she is politically protected — even untouchable — despite the complaints and mounting criticism surrounding her leadership. Employees emphasize, however, that the alleged relationship is based on Agrupis' own claims, and it is unclear whether the First Lady is even aware that her name is being invoked in this manner. The claim has cast a long shadow over the complaints, raising concerns that the allegations against Agrupis will be quietly dropped while she retains her position.

Employees have also questioned how CHED resources have been used for official purposes. They point to one conference in particular, where a biographical presentation allegedly honoring Agrupis' life and career was shown. They argue that government funds and staff time should have been allocated to programs directly related to the commission's educational mandate.

A separate complaint concerns educational materials that were once intended for nationwide distribution. Employees claim that distribution of these publications was halted, resulting in thousands of copies sitting unused in CHED warehouses despite the fact that public funds were already spent on their production. Some employees believe the holdup stems from the Chairperson's reluctance to promote materials she had no personal involvement in creating.

Critics within the agency also point to what they describe as inconsistent fiscal priorities. They point out that Agrupis has publicly advocated for austerity, and that many plantilla positions are still vacant. Employees claim that the vacancy rate has left the agency understaffed and overburdened. However, they argue that spending has continued on non-essential activities. Employees claim that as a result, the commission has prioritized image-building over the personnel required to keep core operations running.

For many employees, the conflict has escalated beyond a single decision or management style. They argue that CHED's efforts should instead be directed toward strengthening higher education policy, assisting state universities and colleges, and addressing the larger challenges confronting Philippine higher education.

Employees say they are now appealing directly to the First Lady, hoping she will push for an impartial review of their complaints. They insist that the appeal is motivated not by personal grievances, but by a desire to restore public trust in CHED and ensure that government resources serve students, educators, and higher education institutions, rather than internal politics or the head's proclivity for self-promotion.

SM Supermalls Fuels the Biggest Running Movement in the Philippines

Galaxy Manila Marathon 42km gunstart on June 12, 2026

When more than 25,000 runners took over EDSA for the historic Galaxy Manila Marathon, they were not just participating in one of the country's biggest races. They were part of a growing movement that is transforming how Filipinos experience running.

From record-setting marathons and major race series to inclusive community runs and pet-friendly events, SM Supermalls is emerging as one of the driving forces behind Philippine running. Through its expanding portfolio of race events and the SM Active Hub platform, SM continues to bring world-class running experiences closer to communities across the country.

Runners took on the historic EDSA route, connecting SM Mall of Asia and SM North EDSA, with the course passing SM Megamall and crossing the iconic Guadalupe Bridge before looping back to SM Mall of Asia.

The Galaxy Manila Marathon marked a defining moment in that journey. For the first time, participants ran along EDSA, connecting SM Mall of Asia and SM North EDSA in a landmark race that celebrated fitness, community, and national pride. The historic route transformed one of the country's most recognizable thoroughfares into a symbol of movement and unity, creating a race experience that captured the imagination of runners from across the Philippines and beyond.

The success of the Galaxy Manila Marathon demonstrated SM Supermalls' ability to stage large-scale sporting events while delivering memorable experiences that extend far beyond the finish line.

But the Galaxy Manila Marathon is only part of a much bigger story.

Long before the historic race took over EDSA, SM Supermalls had already been building momentum through a diverse calendar of running events. Since the start of the year, thousands of runners have gathered at SM destinations for races such as the Earth Day Run, Star Wars Run, Doraemon Run, Women's Run PH, multiple legs of the Sante Barley Trilogy Run Asia, community fun runs, and fitness events that welcomed participants of all ages and fitness levels.

From the Star Wars Run for fans to the Pet Express Doggie Run for fur parents, SM Supermalls continues to champion inclusive running experiences that bring together communities of all ages, interests, and lifestyles. 

These events showcase the breadth of SM Supermalls' running ecosystem. From themed runs that bring together pop culture fans and families, to advocacy-driven races, competitive road events, and marathon majors, SM continues to create experiences that appeal to every type of runner.

From the vibrant Pride Run at SM City Lanang, which celebrates diversity, inclusivity, and community, to the Singlife Iloilo Marathon at SM City Iloilo, one of the country's premier race events, SM Supermalls continues to bring world-class running experiences closer to Filipinos while fostering active lifestyles and stronger communities nationwide. 

Building on that momentum, SM Supermalls continues to host and support some of the Philippines' biggest and most anticipated races, including the SM2SM Run in Cebu, Singlife Cebu International Marathon, Singlife Iloilo Marathon, HOKA Midnight Run Asia, Pride Run, Decathlon Run, Pet Express Doggie Run, Sante Trilogy Run Asia National Finals, and races under the Philippine Marathon Majors series. Together, these events are helping establish SM Supermalls as one of the country's largest and most diverse platforms for running and active lifestyles.

The Doraemon Run at SM Mall of Asia and Cebu's flagship SM2SM Run showcase the diversity of SM Supermalls' running ecosystem, offering experiences for everyone from families and first-time runners to seasoned athletes while promoting active lifestyles and community engagement across the country. 

Run with pride on June 21 at SM Mall of Asia and celebrate diversity, inclusivity, and community through movement. For registration details and event updates, visit the SM Mall of Asia Facebook page or RUNRIO's official channels. 

Continuing the momentum, thousands of runners are expected to gather at SM Mall of Asia on June 21 for the Pride Run, one of the country's largest running events celebrating Pride Month. Bringing together runners, allies, families, and communities, the event combines fitness, self-expression, and inclusivity in a colorful celebration of diversity. The run reflects SM Supermalls' commitment to creating spaces where people can come together, embrace active lifestyles, and celebrate what makes every individual unique.

Women's Run PH reflects SM Supermalls' commitment to creating inclusive running experiences, empowering women through fitness while strengthening communities through shared moments of movement and achievement. 

At the center of this effort is SM Active Hub, SM Supermalls' sports and fitness platform that connects communities through running events, fitness programs, training sessions, and wellness activities. Through SM Active Hub, runners gain access to year-round experiences that support every stage of their fitness journey, from training and recovery to race-day participation and community engagement.

Runners make the most of the MOA Sky running path at SM Mall of Asia, a popular training destination for participants preparing for SM Supermalls' growing calendar of running events and marathon experiences. 

What sets SM Supermalls apart is its ability to create seamless race-day journeys, from registration and race expos to training, recovery, dining, shopping, and entertainment, delivering the maxed-out experiences that today's runners and families seek.

From race kit claiming to meet-and-greet moments with Doraemon, SM Supermalls delivers maxed-out experiences that extend beyond race day, creating exciting and memorable moments for participants of the Star Wars Run, Doraemon Run, and other community-driven running events. 

Through its network of 90 malls nationwide, SM Supermalls has transformed running into a movement that reaches communities across Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao. From a historic 25,000 runners at the Galaxy Manila Marathon to more than 100,000 participants expected across its race calendar, SM Supermalls is helping shape the future of running in the Philippines.

As the country's most loved mall, SM Supermalls continues to create destinations where every finish line leads to new experiences, every race becomes a shared celebration, and every runner feels part of something bigger.

Because when the Philippines runs, it runs through SM Supermalls.

About SM Supermalls

SM Supermalls is evolving—shaping how people live, connect, and experience life today. More than a place to shop, it is the country’s most loved mall and an everyday destination designed around the lifestyles, passions, and needs of Filipino communities, delivering new finds, fresh concepts, and meaningful experiences, All For You.

As one of Southeast Asia’s largest mall developers and operators, with 90 malls in the Philippines and 8 in China, SM Supermalls continues to evolve its spaces, experiences, and partnerships, building destinations that grow with communities and remain trusted, relevant, and loved for generations. Your Most Loved Supermall, SM.

Water finds its second life through SM Green Movement’s conservation program

In 2025, SM recycled 6.6 million cubic meters, or roughly 6.6 billion liters of water – an amount that is equivalent to nearly a thousand times the water consumption of Metro Manila daily.

According to the United Nations, nearly half the global population faces severe water scarcity for at least one month every year. For SM, its year-round advocacy takes on greater urgency amid rising water scarcity concerns and a prolonged El Niño. As climate pressures and escalating water demand intensify strain on water resources, SM Supermalls steadfastly prioritizes water conservation and the circular use of this essential resource. 

An advocacy that started 30 years ago

SM Supermalls’ initiatives began in the 1990s with the installation of a Sewage Treatment Plant (STP) at SM Southmall, aimed at conserving water and protecting the environment of nearby communities. Since then, the mall operator has expanded its water conservation efforts, with 90 malls now equipped with facilities that recycle wastewater annually. 

The mall operator has also embraced innovation to help reduce flooding and enhance water recovery efforts. SM City Baguio’s Rainwater Treatment Facility, for example, collects and treats rainwater for operational use by its tenants and kitchen facilities. From its first day of operations in November 2022 to December 2025, the facility has processed 53,740 cubic meters of rainwater, equivalent to serving an estimated 63,706 households.

“Since the 1990s, SM has always prioritized the welfare of nearby communities and the environment. Water is a very precious resource, and we are committed to ensuring its sustainable use for the benefit of present and future generations. As SM Supermalls moves forward, it will continue to pioneer environmental systems and practices across our malls. We will continue working towards a resilient, sustainable, and eco-friendly future.” ~Liza B. Silerio, SM Supermalls Vice President for Corporate Compliance and Sustainability

SM Supermalls’ integrated networks recycle waste and rainwater for non-potable applications such as cleaning, irrigation, and watering its greeneries across its properties. Not only do the systems reduce demand for fresh water, but they also drive more sustainable and resilient operations, especially during seasonal shortages. 

The institution has accelerated its water conservation initiatives in its two new malls in 2025. SM City La Union has a 760-cubic-meter rainwater catchment system and a 543-square-meter sewage treatment plant, enabling efficient water use and enhanced wastewater management. Meanwhile, SM City Laoag has a self-sustaining water network that converts deep well water into a potable supply.

SM Supermalls' longstanding green initiatives have garnered multiple industry distinctions, including the Bantayog ng Lawa Para sa Kalikasan from the Laguna Lake Development Authority (LLDA) awarded to SM Mall of Asia and the first ever Gawad Taga-Ilog Award bestowed upon a private entity by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) to SM Prime for supporting water stewardship.

About SM Supermalls

SM Supermalls is evolving—shaping how people live, connect, and experience life today. More than a place to shop, it is the country’s most loved mall and an everyday destination designed around the lifestyles, passions, and needs of Filipino communities, delivering new finds, fresh concepts, and meaningful experiences, All For You.

As one of Southeast Asia’s largest mall developers and operators, with 90 malls in the Philippines and 9 in China, SM Supermalls continues to evolve its spaces, experiences, and partnerships, building destinations that grow with communities and remain trusted, relevant, and loved for generations. Your Most Loved Supermall, SM — All For You.