Local Accreditors from Rizal Technological University (RTU) actively participated in the 38th Annual National Conference and General Assembly of the Accrediting Agency of Chartered Colleges and Universities in the Philippines (AACCUP), held from March 5-7, 2025, at Marikina Polytechnic College. With the theme “Elevate, Empower, and Expand QA in Higher Education,” the conference gathered quality assurance experts, university leaders, and accreditors from various State Universities and Colleges (SUCs) nationwide to discuss advancements in quality assurance (QA) and institutional accreditation.

Representing RTU in this event were Assoc. Prof. Niño P. Maliban from the College of Education (CED), the Pasig Vice Chancellor for Planning, Quality Assurance & Strategic Initiatives; Assoc. Prof. Armando P. Matias, faculty member of the College of Engineering (CEng) and the Director of Cooperative Education Office; Asst. Prof. John Eric O. Estrellado, from the College of Business, Entrepreneurship, and Accountancy (CBEA) and Director of the University Public Affairs Office (UPAO); Dr. Amormia Rudita P. Caranto of the College of Arts and Sciences (CAS), who is also part of the Quality Assurance Office; Asst. Prof. Evelyn N. Dagami from the Institute of Human Kinetics (IHK), who also heads the Cultural Affairs Unit; Dr. Edna P. Conwi, Dr. Rome Sheriff G. Montoya, and Assoc. Prof. Felecitas C. Tuazon, all from CBEA; and Engr. Nestor C. Competente, also from CEng.

The three-day event featured a series of plenary sessions, panel discussions, and workshops focusing on strengthening partnerships for quality assurance, integrating technology in accreditation processes, and enhancing stakeholder engagement. The opening ceremony was marked by the processional of member SUCs, followed by a statement of purpose delivered by AACCUP Executive Director Dr. Milabel E. Ho. Dr. Rene M. Colocar, President of Marikina Polytechnic College, and Dr. Anthony M. Penaso, Chairperson and President of the AACCUP Board of Trustees, formally welcomed the delegates.

One of the key highlights of the event was a plenary session which focused on building strong partnerships for quality assurance, with panelists sharing best practices in collaboration and communication. Discussions emphasized the importance of partnerships in accreditation processes and the role of higher education institutions in maintaining academic excellence. The session featured distinguished speakers including Muhammad Hasfarizal Bin Kamaludin, Director of MQA International, and Dr. Reynaldo P. Ramos, President of the Technological University of the Philippines, among others.

Subsequent sessions tackled various aspects of accreditation, including setting and tracking QA goals, leveraging feedback for continuous improvement, and celebrating milestones in institutional accreditation. A notable presentation by Assoc. Prof. Aphichart Rodchanarowan from Kasetsart University in Thailand provided insights into achieving quality assurance milestones through collaboration. Another significant discussion centered on advancements in adaptive learning technologies, led by Dr. Juan Robertino Macalde, Manager of the Learning Development and Management Office at SEAMEO-INNOTECH.

Another noteworthy highlight of the conference was the recognition of two exceptional individuals from RTU for their contributions to academic excellence. Engr. Nestor C. Competente, faculty member from the College of Engineering, was honored with The Manuel T. Corpus Outstanding Accreditor Award for his remarkable work in ensuring quality assurance in engineering education. Additionally, Commissioner Shirley C. Agrupis, CHED Commissioner and newly-designated Chair of the RTU Board of Regents, received The Manuel T. Corpus Outstanding Quality Champion Award in recognition of her steadfast leadership in promoting quality education and institutional accreditation. Their achievements were celebrated during the Institutional Accreditation Award segment of the program.

The conference concluded with the engagement of stakeholders in quality assurance initiatives, with a keynote address from Dr. Agrupis. The event reinforced the importance of collaboration, innovation, and continuous professional development in achieving excellence in higher education.

The RTU delegation actively engaged in discussions, underscoring the university’s commitment to maintaining and elevating academic standards through active involvement in national accreditation initiatives. Their participation, reaffirmed RTU’s dedication to academic excellence and continuous improvement, strengthening its position as a leader in Philippine higher education.