Written by the Linkages Office
The University of Baguio (UB), through the Linkages Office- Expanded Tertiary Education Equivalency and Accreditation Program (ETEEAP) Unit and in collaboration with the Quality Assurance Office, hosted a benchmarking activity with Central Luzon State University (CLSU) on August 27, 2025, at the UB MCR.
The activity provided a platform to exchange best practices and strategies in implementing the Expanded Tertiary Education Equivalency and Accreditation Program (ETEEAP) an alternative education delivery mode institutionalized through Executive Order No. 330 and further strengthened by Republic Act No. 12124, also known as the ETEEAP Act. The law reinforces the program’s role as a vital pathway to quality and flexible higher education, in line with Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 4 – Quality Education. The initiative also reflects the spirit of SDG 17 – Partnerships for the Goals, highlighting the importance of institutional collaboration in promoting innovation and academic excellence.
During the activity, UB shared its ETEEAP practices covering student admission, assessment, academic support, and graduation. These efforts reflect the University’s commitment to making higher education more accessible while ensuring quality through strong quality assurance mechanisms and meaningful partnerships.
Highlights of the Program
Opening Remarks
Dr. Kareen B. Leon formally welcomed participants and emphasized the value of exchanging knowledge and learning from one another’s practices.
Presentation of Best Practices
Director Melanie Saro delivered a focused presentation on UB’s ETEEAP initiatives, showcasing the University’s strategies in implementation and student support.
Interactive Q&A Session
An open exchange between UB and CLSU participants enriched the discussion, as Dr. Cesar Ortinero and UB officials including Director Saro, Dr. Balanquit, Dr. Mangaliag, Dr. Leon, and Dr. Abarientos shared insights and experiences. The dialogue highlighted both similarities and differences in approaches, providing valuable inputs for program enhancement.
Closing Remarks
Dr. Antonio D. Mangaliag concluded the event by expressing gratitude to both institutions and underscoring the importance of knowledge-sharing in advancing academic partnerships.
Looking ahead, UB and CLSU intend to formalize their collaboration through a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) that will cover key areas, including:
- Sharing best practices and collaborating on academic quality assurance and institutional benchmarking.
- Facilitating reciprocal exchange of undergraduate and graduate students for academic enrichment.
- Promoting faculty and researcher exchanges to foster collaborative teaching, research, and professional development.
This benchmarking activity not only strengthened ties between UB and CLSU but also reinforced both institutions’ shared commitment to accessible, high-quality education and global cooperation in higher education.
