MANILA, Philippines - Biliran Province State University, along with the West Mindanao State University (WMSU), visited the Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP) to observe its Quality Assurance Center (QAC) and explore ways to enhance their academic development strategies through insights from PUP’s best practices in quality assurance. 

Both delegations from BiPSU and WMSU were given an in-depth presentation of PUP’s QAC initiatives and its operational framework.

University President Dr. Victor C. Cañezo Jr., head of the BiPSU delegation, outlined the purpose of the visit, emphasizing that the main objective was to gain insights into the quality assurance best practices implemented by PUP.

“By learning from PUP’s exemplary quality assurance approaches, being the pioneer of the Institutional AACCUP accreditation, we are excited to bring back actionable lessons that will improve BiPSU’s academic programs and institutional operations. Our goal is to implement these learnings to elevate our own quality assurance standards," Dr. Cañezo said.

Along Dr. Cañezo are eight key officials from BiPSU, including Engr. Vivencio A. Pelesco, vice-president for Administration and Finance; Dr. Analiza B. Calles, director of Curriculum, Instruction and Faculty Development (CIFD); Engr. Jessie Mari D. Cerera, director of the Institutional Planning Office (IPO); Dr. Carlito C. Cabas Jr., director of Quality Assurance; Dr. Jovy Dia R. Saniel, dean of the School of Nursing and Health Sciences (SNHS); Dr. Maribel N. Zipagan, dean of the School of Teacher Education (STEd); Dr. Randy Villarin, dean of SAB-Form; and Apple Joy Balondo-Visitacion, director of the University Media and Information Office (UMIO).

PUP’s Quality Assurance Center Director, Dr. Sanjay P. Claudio  kicked off the visit by warmly welcoming the delegates and setting the stage for a collaborative exchange of ideas. 

“We are excited to share our experiences with BiPSU and WMSU,” Dr. Claudio expressed. “Leading the Quality Assurance Center of the largest university in the country is no easy feat, but with the efforts and accomplishments we’ve achieved, we’re proud to contribute to the continuous improvement of our institution.”

The QAC Director, who has headed the office since 2017, also highlighted significant accomplishments, including the achievement of 203 CHED-issued Certificates of Program Compliance (COPCs) from none in 2017, and 24 newly approved campuses, offering over 230 degree programs, with 184 accredited by the AACCUP.

He also discussed the core functions of the center, stressing the integration of quality assurance into PUP’s academic and administrative systems. "Our goal is not just to maintain, but to continually improve the quality of education we offer. The QAC plays a central role in this mission," he emphasized.

Further, Dr. Claudio outlined 12 initiatives implemented by the QAC, such as restructuring the QAC Organizational Structure, increasing manpower to support expanded mandates, enhancing communication with all sectors, strengthening the branding of academic programs during QA visits, and utilizing the expertise of internal accreditors, among others.

Following the presentations, an engaging forum was held, where the delegates from BiPSU and WMSU had the opportunity to ask questions.

Dr. Cañezo expressed his appreciation for the open exchange. “It’s through such collaborations that we grow together,” he said. “The lessons we learn here today will help weave BiPSU’s future strategies for quality education.”

The visit concluded with the PUP Quality Assurance Center presenting key samples of its portfolio, highlighting the accomplishments and initiatives from Areas 1 to 9 of their quality assurance framework. The detailed presentation provided a comprehensive look at PUP’s systematic approach to ensuring excellence across various academic and administrative sectors. 

“It’s been a pleasure to be here at PUP. We hope this benchmarking visit strengthens our  commitment to quality education across all our institutions,” Dr. Cañezo stressed. 

The BiPSU delegation is also set to attend the 38th AACCUP Annual National Conference and General Assembly from March 5-7 at the Marikina Polytechnic College in Marikina City, where they will continue to expand their knowledge and network with other higher education professionals.

#WoWBiPSU

[This news article aligns with SDG 4: Quality Education.]