BukSU Reinforces QA Culture at National Seminar-Workshop on Outcomes-Based Quality Assurance

Bukidnon State University (BukSU) strengthened its institutional commitment to a sustained culture of quality by actively participating in the Seminar-Workshop on Outcomes-Based Quality Assurance (OBQA): An Overview for New Accreditors, Internal Quality Assurance (IQA), and Non-Academic Personnel, organized by the Accrediting Agency of Chartered Colleges and Universities in the Philippines, Inc. (AACCUP) on July 9-11, 2025 at the Century Park Hotel, Malate, Manila.

Joining the three-day capacity-building event were BukSU faculty and staff involved in internal quality assurance and academic program and institutional development. The university delegation included Ms. Shahani Jane Luna, Ms. Donnalyn Carla Caluya, Dr. Ma. Algerica Cuenco, Dr. Derren Gaylo, Dr. Annie Leah Emata, Dr. Mario Gemota, Dr. Richard Ian Mark Necosia, Ms. Joanne Vivien Necosia, Ms. Marie Angelie Abendaño, Dr. Cecille Janamjam and Ms. Jiffamae Gelacio.

Day 1: Contextualizing Accreditation and Document Review

The first day of the seminar focused on introducing the AACCUP framework and setting the context for outcomes-based quality assurance in Philippine higher education. Led by AACCUP Executive Director Dr. Milabel E. Ho, the session traced the historical development of accreditation and outlined the procedures for online, onsite, and hybrid visits.

Participants were immersed in discussions on reviewing relevant documents and crafting accreditation reports aligned with QA standards. Dr. Raul F. Muyong of CHED Central Office presented best practices in document review and compliance strategies, while AACCUP President Dr. Anthony M. Penaso emphasized the role of accreditors in formulating sound recommendations during survey visits.

Day 2: OBQA and the ACHIEVE Agenda

The second day was highlighted by a keynote address from CHED Chairperson Hon. Shirley C. Agrupis, who delivered a powerful message on the materiality of OBQA in Higher Education Institutions. She contextualized QA within the national development goals of the ACHIEVE Agenda, underscoring that quality assurance must be at the core of institutional transformation and public accountability.

Participants also engaged in simulation workshops that allowed them to apply key concepts in defining IQA and administrative roles, developing action plans based on survey findings, preparing program performance profiles, and addressing common accreditation challenges. The collaborative exercises reinforced the recurring message of the workshop: quality assurance is not a one-time event, but a continuous and shared responsibility.

Day 3: Ethics and Professionalism in QA Practice

On the final day, Dr. Boyet L. Batang, President of Isabela State University, led a session on the professional and ethical responsibilities of accreditors and IQA focal persons. He highlighted integrity, transparency, and objectivity as cornerstones of effective accreditation work.

QA as a Way of Life at BukSU

Throughout the workshop, one message remained clear: Quality assurance is not a one-time event—it is a way of life. This principle echoes the very foundation of BukSU’s internal QA system, which is built on consistent self-assessment, evidence-based practices, and a university-wide culture of continuous improvement.

By investing in the capacity development of its personnel and participating in national dialogues on OBQA, BukSU continues to position itself as a forward-thinking, quality-driven institution committed to relevance, excellence, and accountability in higher education. (Ms. Joanne Vivien B. Necosia, Director, Presidential Mangament Staff & Ms. Shahani Jane C. Luna, QA Focal Person, Institutional Excellence)