DEBESMSCAT’s commitment to academic excellence and cultural pride took center stage at the AACCUP Accreditors’ BAYANIHAN 2024 (Bringing Attention to Your Accreditation Needs: Implementing Holistic Approach to Notability), held from November 6-8, 2024, at the ICON Center, Cavite State University, Indang, Cavite. This significant event gathered nearly 500 participants from State Universities and Colleges (SUCs) across the Philippines.
The DEBESMSCAT delegation, led by SUC President Dr. Arnel B. Millesca, included key faculty and staff members: Dr. Rodolfo B. Burac Jr., Dean of the Graduate School; Dr. Jessica M. Alcantara, Faculty Association President; Mr. Randy Ramos, Motorpool Head; Maffi Gieson S. Asilum, Executive Assistant III; and Engr. Genesis A. Tumbaga, Public Information Officer. True to their Masbate roots, DEBESMSCAT delegates donned rodeo-themed attire, proudly representing Masbate as the Rodeo Capital of the Philippines during the opening cultural attire showcase on Day 1.
The event began with an inspiring keynote message from Hon. J. Prospero E. De Vera III, CHED Chair, read on his behalf by Dr. Anthony M. Penaso, AACCUP Board of Trustees President and President of Bohol Island State University. Dr. Tirso R. Ronquillo, PASUC President and Batangas State University President, also addressed attendees, reaffirming PASUC’s support for AACCUP’s commitment to quality in Philippine higher education.
Session 1 featured Hon. Shirley C. Agrupis, CHED Commissioner, who presented the importance of “Accreditation 4.0” in addressing modern accreditation requirements. Joining virtually, Dr. Agrupis highlighted how Accreditation 4.0 will help SUCs stay relevant and effective in a changing educational landscape.
In the afternoon, Dr. Grace Javier Alfonso, Executive Director of TVUP, presented on Education 4.0 and its alignment with modern accreditation processes. Assoc. Prof. Dr. Thanapan Laiprakobsup, ASEAN University Network Deputy Executive Director, discussed the need for strong technological infrastructure to support quality assurance in higher education. Dr. Raul F. Muyong, CHED’s Director of the Office of Institutional Quality Assurance and Governance (OIQAG), wrapped up Day 1 with a discussion on the alignment of national initiatives with Accreditation 4.0.
Day 2 opened with Engr. Angelica C. Fraginal from ACF Consultancy, who spoke on the readiness of SUCs for both national and international accreditation. Dr. Randy S. Gamboa examined the challenges technology presents in the accreditation process, followed by Mr. Gerric Gomez of C&E Publishing, who addressed the impact of personalized learning on accreditation. Before the morning session concluded, Dr. Penaso launched two prestigious awards—the Manuel T. Corpuz Champion Award and the Most Valuable Accreditation Gemstone Award—to recognize accreditation excellence.
The afternoon sessions of Day 2 focused on global collaborations in quality assurance. Dr. Bert J. Tuga, President of Philippine Normal University, shared insights on dual accreditation with international quality assurance agencies and its benefits for SUCs. Following this, Dr. Joselito F. Villaruz, President of West Visayas State University, discussed the future of accreditation and shared West Visayas State University’s achievements. The day ended with Dr. Penaso’s presentation on AACCUP’s current accreditation status and goals for the future, recognizing DEBESMSCAT as an institution with Level IV accredited programs.
The third day opened with Dr. Ma. Cecilia C. Cuaresma, former Dean of the College of Medicine at Western Mindanao State University, who discussed managing stress and mindfulness in the accreditation process. The awarding ceremony highlighted individuals and SUCs who excelled in AACCUP’s various contests, with Dr. Millesca, an AACCUP Board of Trustees member, co-hosting the event. Dr. Alcantara delivered closing impressions for the three-day conference, while Dr. Burac and Dr. Millesca entertained participants with a stirring rendition of “Maghintay Ka Lamang.”
In her closing remarks, AACCUP Executive Director Dr. Milabel E. Ho expressed gratitude to all participants and announced Zamboanga del Sur as the tentative location for the next AACCUP conference in 2025, subject to board approval.
DEBESMSCAT’s active role in the AACCUP BAYANIHAN 2024 event exemplifies the institution’s commitment to quality assurance, educational excellence, and cultural pride. This gathering of higher education institutions underscored the importance of collaboration in accreditation, pushing Philippine SUCs toward higher standards and international recognition. | DEBES PIO
Ladies and gentlemen,
