MANILA, Philippines - A total of 15 universities and colleges in Central Visayas have asked the Commission on Higher Education to approve their applications for tuition increase this coming school year.

In Cebu, Asian College of Technology, Benedicto College, Cebu Institute of Technology, St. Louise De Marillac College in Bogo City, St. Theresa’s College, University of San Carlos, University of San Jose-Recoletos, University of Southern Philippines, and Velez College passed their applications for a tuition increase for the Academic Year 2010-2011.

In Bohol, Blessed Trinity College in Talibon, Bohol Wisdom School, Holy Name University, and Trinidad College also asked for tuition increase. Two other schools in Negros Oriental; Diaz College and St. Paul’s University, also sought CHED’s approval for increase in matriculation.

Dr. Candelario Aytona, assistant regional director of CHED in Central Visayas, said Asian College of Technology asked for an 8% increase in tuition while Benedicto College asked for a 13% increase.

St. Louise De Marillac College in Bogo City sought a 10% increase in tuition while Saint Theresa’s College is asking for a 5% increase.

One of the owners of Benedicto College, Samuel Chioson, said it is the second time that the college asked for a tuition increase. The last time they applied was 7 years ago.

Chioson said that they are one of the cheapest tertiary private schools in Cebu and that the proposed tuition increase is for the faculty’s salary. He also said that the school has been operating at a higher cost.

Chioson said CHED had asked them to submit supporting documents to prove that there is basis to increase their tuition.

He said they are also planning to apply for tuition increase in elementary and high school. He said that it will be their first time to apply for tuition increase before the Department of Education.