Batanes State College (BSC) officially commenced its AACCUP Institutional Accreditation Orientation and Workshop on May 4, 2026, at the BSC Amphitheater, signaling a renewed commitment to quality assurance and academic excellence.
The two-day activity, running until May 5, brings together administrators, faculty members, and staff in preparation for institutional accreditation process under the Accrediting Agency of Chartered Colleges and Universities in the Philippines Incorporated (AACCUP Inc.)
Dr. Angelita H. Vargas, Vice President of the College, in her remarks underscored the importance of accreditation in sustaining institutional quality and continuous improvement. She encouraged participants to actively engage in the workshop, highlighting that the process requires collaboration and shared effort across all departments.
Dr. Djovi Regala Durante, SUC President I, introduced the guest speaker, Dr. Milabel E. Ho, RN, Executive Director of AACCUP Inc. where he highlighted her exemplary background in accreditation and quality assurance.
In her lecture proper, Dr. Ho delivered a comprehensive discussion on institutional accreditation, with particular emphasis on the preparation of the IA Survey and IA Portfolio, which serve as critical requirements in the accreditation process. She stressed that accreditation is a continuous cycle of improvement rather than a one-time compliance activity.
“Countries outside don’t ask how many programs you’ve accredited or what levels your programs are; they look at your overall standing as an institution. That is why it is very important that we put value into Batanes State College because you are the chosen workforce of this time to make a difference in the lives of your students,” Dr. Ho emphasized during her lecture.
A key highlight of the workshop was the division of faculty members and administrators into nine accreditation areas, allowing for a more organized and targeted preparation process. These areas include governance and management; teaching, learning, and evaluation; faculty and staff; research; extension, consultancy, and linkages; support to students; library; infrastructure and other learning resources; and quality assurance culture. This structure enabled participants to focus on specific institutional components and assess their readiness based on AACCUP standards.
The AACCUP accreditation process remains a vital mechanism for ensuring that state colleges and universities uphold high standards in instruction, research, and community service. For Batanes State College, this workshop represents a strategic step toward strengthening institutional systems and enhancing overall educational quality.
The first day concluded with participants gaining clearer insights into accreditation expectations and their respective roles within the process.
“The knowledge we gained would be a great guide for each area in preparing necessary documents and in improving internal quality systems in BSC,” Ms. Renelyn Killase, College Librarian said in an interview.
Meanwhile, the workshop continues until May 5 with further discussions and presentations aimed at deepening understanding and strengthening institutional readiness. As the event progresses, Batanes State College continues to demonstrate its commitment to academic excellence, continuous improvement, and quality assurance in higher education.
Written by: Ms. Kryza Anne Cultura / The Builder’s Publication