Home⇛International Journal of Transformative Multidisciplinary Studies⇛vol. 2 no. 2 (2026)

Enhancing the Operationalization of ETEEAP through Philippine Embassies, OWWA and HEIs for Saudi-based Overseas Filipino Workers: Towards a Collaborative Facilitation Framework

Ruben Josol

Discipline: Education

 

Abstract:

1 Philippine Christian University, Manila, Philippines * ruben.josol.gse@ pcu.edu.ph Volume 2, Issue 2, June 2026 This study aimed to explore the challenges faced by Saudi- based Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) in accessing the Expanded Tertiary Education Equivalency and Accreditation Program (ETEEAP) and to propose a collaborative facilitation framework involving Philippine Embassies, OWWA, and accredited higher education institutions (HEIs) to enhance program operationalization. A sequential explanatory mixed-methods design was employed. The quantitative phase involved a survey of 150 Saudi-based OFWs to assess their awareness, experiences, and perceived barriers in the ETEEAP process. The qualitative phase included focus group discussions (FGDs) with 20 OFWs, analyzed thematically to identify key challenges and recommendations for improving program access and guidance. Quantitative findings revealed low awareness and difficulties in documentation, guidance, and communication, with mean scores ranging from 2.1 to 2.8 on a 5-point Likert scale. Qualitative analysis highlighted themes such as "fragmented support," "limited accessibility to information," and "delayed feedback." These findings served as the basis for the design of a proposed collaborative facilitation framework, which defines coordinated roles for embassies, OWWA, and HEIs to streamline ETEEAP operationalization for OFWs. The study emphasizes the need for a structured collaborative framework to improve access and guidance for Saudi- based OFWs pursuing degree equivalency through Josol, IJTMS, 2 (2), 628-639, 2026 629 1.



References:

  1. Andersen, T., & Laugesen, N. (2007). Recognition of prior learning: A guide for policy makers and social partners. International Labour Organization. https://www.ilo.org/wcmsp5/groups/public/@ed_emp/@ifp_skills/documents/publication/wcms_625895.pdf
  2. Ansell, C., & Gash, A. (2008). Collaborative governance in theory and practice. Journal of Public Administration Research and Theory, 18(4), 543–571. https://doi.org/10.1093/jopart/mum032
  3. Association of Southeast Asian Nations. (2016). ASEAN qualifications reference framework (AQRF): Concept note no. 1—Non-formal and informal learning. ASEAN Secretariat. https://aanzfta.asean.org/uploads/2017/03/DD-02-Concept-Note-1-on-AQRF-Non-formal-and-informal-learning-January-2016.pdf
  4. Braun, V., & Clarke, V. (2006). Using thematic analysis in psychology. Qualitative Research in Psychology, 3(2), 77–101. https://doi.org/10.1191/1478088706qp063oa
  5. Commission on Higher Education. (2021). CMO No. 29, series of 2021: Guidelines for the Expanded Tertiary Education Equivalency and Accreditation Program (ETEEAP). https://eteeap.org/resources/ched/CMO-No-29-S-2021.pdf
  6. Dela Cruz, K. C. (2025). Strengthening assessment in the Expanded Tertiary Education Equivalency and Accreditation Program: Best practices, challenges, and policy directions for evidence-based reform. International Journal of Learning, Teaching and Educational Research, 24(7), 869–896. https://doi.org/10.26803/ijlter.24.7.42
  7. Dilla, V. J., & Ibarra, F. P. (2022). Evaluation on prior learning assessment of the Expanded Tertiary Equivalency and Accreditation Program (ETEEAP): Its implications for tertiary education policy. Journal of Higher Education Theory and Practice, 22(15). https://doi.org/10.33423/jhetp.v22i15.5562
  8. Jackson, D., & Bridgstock, R. (2020). What actually works to enhance graduate employability? The relative value of curricular, co-curricular, and extracurricular learning and paid work. Higher Education, 81(4), 723–739. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10734-020-00570-x
  9. Meghnagi, M., & Tuccio, M. (2022). The recognition of prior learning: Validating general competences (OECD Social, Employment and Migration Working Papers No. 270). OECD Publishing. https://doi.org/10.1787/2d9fb06a-en
  10. Raciti, M., Tham, A., & Dale, J. (2024). Recognition of prior learning in higher education: A systematic literature review. Journal of University Teaching and Learning Practice, 21(9). https://doi.org/10.53761/bys3aj56
  11. Senge, P. M. (2006). The fifth discipline: The art and practice of the learning organization (Rev. ed.). Doubleday. https://agsystemsthinking.net/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/sengeondialogue.pdf
  12. The Commission on Higher Education (CHED). (2021). CMO No. 29, Series of 2021: Guidelines for the Expanded Tertiary Education Equivalency and Accreditation Program (ETEEAP).https://eteeap.org/resources/ched/CMO-No-29-S-2021.pdf

Tools


Copyright © 2026  KITE Digital Educational Solutions |  Exclusively distributed by CE-Logic