With its aim to enhance the quality of degree programs offered, Benguet State University (BSU) submitted seven degree programs for evaluation by the Accrediting Agency of Chartered Colleges and Universities in the Philippines (AACCUP) held on-site and online on April 30-May 4, 2024.

The accreditation assessed the degree programs: BS in Applied Statistics; BS in Agribusiness; MS in Agronomy; MS in Horticulture; PhD in Rural Development; and PhD in Horticulture for Level IV Phase 1. These programs underwent evaluation under the areas of Vision, Mission, Goals, and Objectives; Faculty; Curriculum and Instruction; Support to Students; Research; Extension and Community Involvement; Library; Physical Plant and Facilities; Laboratories; and Administration. It also included online ocular visits to the facilities of the University. Likewise, the MS in Agricultural Economics was also evaluated for Level IV Phase 2 under the areas of Research; Performance of Graduates; Community Service; International Linkages and Consortia; and Planning Process.

In his message, VP for Administration and Finance Allan C. Sacpa, representing BSU President Felipe Salaing Comila, emphasized the significance of the accreditation in aligning BSU endeavors with its Vision, Mission, and Development Goals.

The accreditors were Riceli C. Mendoza of the University of Southern Mindanao (USM), as the overall coordinator; Benhur A. Asid of West Mindanao State University (WMSU); Anita C. Sornito of University of Southern Mindanao (USM); Alberto C. Arellano of the USM; Christina V. Malipong of the University of Science and Technology of Southern Philippines (USTSP); Cecile O. Legaspi of the Aklan State University (ASU); Christina R. Salvosa of the Nueva Vizcaya State University (NVSU); Janice M. Baysa of the President Ramon Magsaysay State University (PRMSU); Susan M. Gauran of Western Philippines University (WPU); Luis O. Amano of Bicol University (BU); Benica S. Briones of Pangasinan State University (PSU); Celeste V. Francia of Central Bicol State University of Agriculture (CBSUA); Adolfo C. Manuel Jr. of the Cavite State University(CavSU); Jonar I. Yago of NVSU; Carmenchita M. Tumaca of the ASU; Antonio P. Agustin of the University of Northern Philippines (UNP); and Elsa P. Manarpaac of the WPU, who attended on-site.

The accreditation process involved evaluation of the documents and interviews with the top management and the BSU local task force to validate the presented documents. The accreditors also conducted ocular visits to the colleges and university facilities.

The five-day event concluded with a closing meeting on May 4,2024 where the accreditors gave their impression and recommendations for further program enhancement. Mendoza commended the University and expressed appreciation for the BSU local task force’s efforts and cooperation throughout the evaluation period.

“We have witnessed how they (BSU Local Task Force) worked to provide us with the necessary documents. Even now, we witness their commitment, diligence, dedication, and determination. Thank you very much for giving your best to this accreditation endeavor which facilitated our tasks as accreditors. To the BSU family and the administrators, thank you for your support and the utmost cooperation. Thank you, AACUUP for giving us the opportunity to accredit the seven degree programs of BSU. Soar high like an eagle, Benguet State University,” she said.

In a video message, BSU President Comila expressed gratitude to the accreditors’ feedback and appreciated them for sharing their expertise. He also assured support towards realizing the university’s commitment to quality education.

VP for Research and Extension Roscinto Ian C. Lumbres also acknowledged the invaluable feedback of the accreditors and urged the BSU community to strive for excellence beyond minimum standards.//EBawayan