Representatives from the University of Northern Philippines’ Office of Student Affairs and Services (OSAS) joined higher education leaders of Northern and Central Luzon during the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) Zonal Public Orientation on the newly approved Memorandum Order on the Inclusive and Comprehensive Policies and Guidelines on Student Affairs and Services (SAS) and its accompanying monitoring instrument held in Pampanga on July 30, 2026.
The orientation convened officials from higher education institutions in Regions I, II, III, V, and the Cordillera Administrative Region, providing a platform to discuss the implementation of strengthened national policies governing student affairs and services in accordance with Republic Act No. 7722, or the Higher Education Act of 1994.
Representing UNP were OSAS Director Dr. Mariano Paterno Avila, accompanied by the heads of the office’s three key service units: Dr. Benjie Gapate, Head of Institutional Student Services; Dr. Marifel Acena, Head of Student Welfare Services; and Mr. Randolfo Lopez, Head of Student Development Services.
The orientation introduced the revised policy framework that will guide higher education institutions in delivering student affairs and services that are more inclusive, responsive, and accountable. It also presented the monitoring instrument that will be used to assess institutional compliance and ensure consistent implementation of the new standards nationwide.
By actively participating in the orientation, UNP demonstrated its commitment to remain at the forefront of student support and welfare. The University’s engagement supports its continuing efforts to align its student affairs programs with CHED’s evolving policies, ensuring that every learner receives quality services that promote academic success, personal well-being, leadership development, and holistic growth.
The participation likewise emphasizes UNP’s dedication to strengthen student-centered governance and promotes an inclusive campus environment that responds to the diverse needs of its academic community while upholding national standards for excellence in higher education.
