Benguet State University (BSU) once again demonstrated its unwavering commitment to excellence in public service as it was recognized as the Top 1 among 130 State Universities and Colleges (SUCs) nationwide and 5th overall in the Anti-Red Tape Authority (ARTA) 2024 Batch Report Card Survey (RCS) 2.0 – 1st Cycle Implementation Awards, held at Conrad Manila Hotel, Pasay City, on October 23, 2025.

The Anti-Red Tape Award is conferred upon government agencies that exemplify efficiency, transparency, and accountability in the delivery of public services. This recognition highlights BSU’s successful implementation of ARTA’s standards and its steadfast adherence to the principles of good governance.

BSU achieved a 29.50% institutionalization rating under Republic Act No. 11032, otherwise known as the 𝘌𝘢𝘴𝘦 𝘰𝘧 𝘋𝘰𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘉𝘶𝘴𝘪𝘯𝘦𝘴𝘴 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘌𝘧𝘧𝘪𝘤𝘪𝘦𝘯𝘵 𝘎𝘰𝘷𝘦𝘳𝘯𝘮𝘦𝘯𝘵 𝘚𝘦𝘳𝘷𝘪𝘤𝘦 𝘋𝘦𝘭𝘪𝘷𝘦𝘳𝘺 𝘈𝘤𝘵, an overall survey score of 62.84%, and 4% external recognition for garnering two international and one national awards. These accomplishments resulted in an overall score of 96.34%, earning BSU a descriptive rating of “Excellent.”

Representing the University in receiving the certificate and monetary award were University President Kenneth A. Laruan, Vice President for Business Affairs Josel M. Florentin, Vice President for Research and Extension Roscinto Ian C. Lumbres, Supervising Administrative Officer and OIC–Chief Administrative Officer for Administrative Services Raymundo H. Pawid Jr., and Planning and Development Office Director Allan C. Sacpa.

In his acceptance speech, President Laruan expressed profound gratitude to ARTA and to the entire BSU community for their collective effort and dedication.

“This recognition is not only for the Administrative Council, Executive Council, and Management Committee—it is for the dedicated men and women of BSU. It represents our shared commitment to efficiency, transparency, and excellence across all sectors: Academic, Research and Extension, Business Affairs, and Administration and Finance. This award inspires us to uphold the principles of ARTA—to serve with integrity, fairness, and genuine concern in all our services,” Laruan said.

President Laruan further reaffirmed BSU’s dedication to continually simplify its processes, embrace digital transformation, and enhance payment and service systems to ensure faster, more efficient, and responsive governance.

BSU’s top ranking in the 2025 ARTA RCS Awards for SUCs stands as a testament to the University’s pursuit of excellence and its enduring commitment to delivering efficient, transparent, and citizen-centered public service to the community. //