23-24 April 2026
The Commission on Higher Education (CHED) Technical Panel evaluated Benguet State University’s Doctor of Medicine program to ensure compliance with the requirements set by the Commission.
During the opening program at the RDC Hall, VP for Academic Affairs Janet P. Pablo welcomed the accreditors, CHED-CAR Regional Office officials, and BSU faculty and staff. In her message, Pablo emphasized the significance of the new program.
“The creation of this College of Medicine is not only marking an academic milestone but also is considered a promise to nurture and prepare future physicians, making doctors available within our university and in the region to address the pressing need of healthcare and ensure that quality medical service is within the reach of every family,” she said.
VP for Business Affairs Josel M. Florentin shared the history behind the establishment of the University’s College of Medicine and reiterated its vital role in meeting regional and national healthcare demands. He added that the accreditation process is a collaborative effort, describing the evaluators as partners to excellence.
This was followed by the introduction of the BSU officials by COM Dean Dr. Ruel G. Revilla; the CHED-CAR Regional Office officials by Chief Education Program Specialist Ma. Geraldine Casipit; and the technical panel and evaluators by Sheila F. Jalbuena, the OIC Senior Education Program Specialist of CHED-OPSD.
The CHED Technical Panel consists of Dr. Ma. Lourdes D. Maglinao, Dr. Racquel Sayo, Dr. Dina Gonzales, Dr. Cecilia Alinea, Dr. Josephine Carnate, and Jalbuena.
Dr. Maglinao provided the walkthrough of the visit, and Dr. Revilla also gave a brief presentation of the medicine program.
Throughout the accreditation visit, the accreditors assessed the program’s documents and conducted a facility tour.
During the exit conference on April 24, 2026, University President Laruan, who attended online, expressed his gratitude to the assessment team for their time and expertise. He said that their insightful observations, recommendations, and professional guidance help ensure the university meets the highest standards of medical education.
Following the President’s remarks, the accreditors presented their findings. In response, Dr. Revilla thanked the team, noting that their evaluation efforts demonstrated dedication and commitment to pursuing excellence within medical schools.
In his closing remarks, VP for Administration and Finance Richard H. Kinnud described the College of Medicine as a dream nurtured by generations of BSU leaders – a vision of affordable medical education for the entire Cordillera region.
He likened the university’s journey to the third pig in the fable of the Three Little Pigs, who rejected shortcuts in favor of hard work and durable materials. Kinnud mentioned that while the university could have rushed the process, it chose to plan, prepare, and build on a stronger foundation.
“Mananatili ang aming tiwala na sa matibay na pundasyong binubuo, malalampasan ang anumang pagsubok upang tunay na uunlad at magtagal sa paglilingkod ang Pamantasan, lalong-lalo na sa pamamagitan ng College of Medicine (Our trust remains that with the strong foundation being built, any trials will be overcome – to truly prosper and endure in service to the University, especially through a College of Medicine),” Kinnud said.
The establishment of the BSU College of Medicine was approved by the BSU BOR through BOR Resolution No. 42. s.2023, and the Doctor of Medicine Program curriculum was approved through BOR Resolution No. 42a, s.2023.//EBawayan
