The Philippines is charting a new course in aviation education with the passage of Republic Act No. 12255, which transforms the Philippine State College of Aeronautics (PHILSCA) into the National Aviation Academy of the Philippines (NAAP), positioning it as the country’s premier institution for training a globally competitive aviation workforce.
The Philippine government has taken a decisive step in strengthening the country’s aviation sector with the signing of Republic Act No. 12255, a landmark law that renames the Philippine State College of Aeronautics (PHILSCA) as the National Aviation Academy of the Philippines (NAAP). This newly chartered institution is now recognized as the national professional hub for aviation, tasked with advancing world-class education, research, and training in the field. The law, signed on 05 September 2025, will officially take effect 15 days after its publication in the Official Gazette or in a newspaper of general circulation.
Under its new mandate, the National Aviation Academy of the Philippines is designated as the country’s premier institution for aviation, committed to promoting quality and accessible education in line with the evolving needs of society. Its vision is to build and maintain an integrated aviation education and training system that strengthens academic programs and nurtures future industry leaders.
The Academy is expected to deliver world-class academic and professional training to young Filipinos, preparing them to become responsible and globally competitive aviation professionals. It will also provide advanced studies and specialization programs, particularly for faculty development, and strengthen collaboration between academia and the aviation industry. NAAP is also mandated to implement innovative teaching methods, intensify professional skills training, and lead research and development efforts in partnership with government agencies such as the Department of Transportation (DOTr), the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP), and the Philippine Space Agency (PhilSA).
In addition, the Academy aims to preserve Philippine heritage while expanding access to aviation education, positioning itself as a regional and global hub for academic collaboration. It will also promote aviation’s role in tourism, cultural exchange, and national development, ensuring that its graduates contribute not only to the industry but to broader nation-building goals.
NAAP will offer a wide range of programs, including a Bachelor of Science in Air Transportation and a Bachelor of Science in Aeronautical Engineering. Other offerings include courses in Drone Technology, Aircraft Maintenance Technology, Electronic Technology, Aviation Logistics, and Information Technology. Admission policies guarantee inclusivity, as students will not be denied entry based on gender, nationality, religious belief, economic status, ethnicity, disability, or political opinion. Each region in the country will also have guaranteed representation among its student body.
The institution will be governed by a Board of Trustees chaired by the Commission on Higher Education (CHED). Members include the heads of the Senate and House Committees on Higher, Technical, and Vocational Education, the Commanding General of the Philippine Air Force, the Director General of CAAP, and representatives from faculty, students, alumni, and the private sector. The Board is mandated to meet at least once every three months to set policies and oversee operations.
In terms of resources, all assets, liabilities, and personnel of PHILSCA will be transferred to the new Academy. Initial funding will come from PHILSCA’s current budget, with additional appropriations to be included in the national budget under the General Appropriations Act. NAAP is also authorized to accept donations, grants, and endowments to support its projects and initiatives.
Beyond producing skilled professionals, the Academy is committed to democratic access and national development, providing opportunities for disadvantaged groups, including indigenous peoples and underprivileged students, to pursue aviation careers.
The establishment of NAAP marks a transformative milestone in Philippine aviation education. By developing a highly skilled, innovative, and globally competitive aviation workforce, the Philippines is positioning itself as a key player in the regional and global aviation industry, driving both economic growth and technological advancement.