10-12 March 2026
Four of Benguet State University’s (BSU) degree programs were evaluated for Level IV status by the Accrediting Agency of Chartered Colleges and Universities in the Philippines (AACCUP) during the hybrid survey visit.
The Accreditation Team was headed by Carlo F. Vadil from Nueva Vizcaya State University (NVSU), who joined the evaluation onsite. Other accreditors included Lita B. Sopsop from Western Philippines University; Randell R. Regino from Marinduque State University; Elsie M. Pacho from Don Mariano Marcos Memorial State University; Ruth C. Cordero from President Ramon Magsaysay State University; Jonar I. Yago from NVSU; Nancy G. Lanuza from Northwest Samar State University; Juanita M. Costillas from Southern Leyte State University; and Shierel F. Vallesteros from NVSU.
During the opening meeting on March 10, 2026, VP for Academic Affairs Janet P. Pablo welcomed both onsite and online participants. She highlighted accreditation as an opportunity for reflection and innovation, urging the local task force to use the process as a benchmark for excellence.
VP for Research and Extension Roscinto Ian C. Lumbres, on behalf of BSU President Kenneth A. Laruan, described the accreditation process as a catalyst for growth. He emphasized that this evaluation challenges the University to step out of its comfort zone, ensuring it continues to evolve for the benefit of its students, stakeholders, and the communities it serves.
This was followed by an introduction of the BSU officials by Office for Quality Assurance Director Joana I. Alafag and introduction of the Local Task Force by College of Forestry (CF) Dean Nova D. Doyog, College of Information Sciences Dean Grace D. Quijano, College of Numeracy and Applied Sciences Dean Ederson G. Bawang, and College of Natural Sciences Sherlyn C. Tipayno.
Afterwards, Vadil introduced his co-AACCUP accreditors and shared the purpose of the visit. He reiterated that accreditation aims to enhance the quality and relevance of academic programs, promote accountability and transparency among SUCs, and strengthen institutional capability and governance in SUCs.
The three-day survey visit included verification of program documents, interviews, and a tour of facilities. The programs evaluated were the Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science, Bachelor of Science in Information Technology, Master of Science in Forestry, and the Master of Arts in Mathematics.
At the closing meeting on March 12, 2026, Vadil gave impressions on the evaluated programs, highlighting the programs’ strengths and recommendations for further improvement.
“Regardless of the outcome of this accreditation activity, let us view it as an inspiration, a developmental opportunity, and a normal academic exercise-a way of life in the academe. Let us remain committed to embracing quality and excellence,” he expressed.
In response, VP for Business Affairs Josel M. Florentin, representing President Laruan, expressed the University’s continued commitment to quality education and expressed gratitude to the accreditors for their time, expertise, and dedication in evaluating the BSU programs.
“Accreditation is not a finish line- it is only a starting point. We will not rest on the laurels of these ratings and recognition. We will use this as a springboard to strengthen our academic programs, improve our research outputs, deepen our community engagement, and enhance our facilities and services. The standards set by AACCUP shall serve as our benchmark, and we will endeavor not just to meet them- but to exceed them,” he said.
Closing the event, CF Dean Doyog thanked the accreditors and the BSU task force, noting that the activity served as a unified effort toward the university’s continuous improvement.//EBawayan
