The University of Northern Philippines submitted four of its programs for accreditation by the Accrediting Agency of Chartered Colleges and Universities in the Philippines, Inc. on September 23, 2024.

These programs are Master of Science in Criminal Justice with specialization in Criminology of the College of Criminal Justice Education (CCJE) for Level 2; Bachelor of Science in Special Needs Education, Bachelor of Physical Education, and Master of Arts in Technology and Livelihood Education of the College of Teacher Education (CTE) for Preliminary Survey Visit.

Dr. Erwin Cadorna, University President, in his message during the opening program, he emphasized the significance of accreditation. He stated that it “Ensures and enriches the quality of learning of our students, and continually improves our programs based on feedback from experts in the field.”

Dr. Cadorna emphasized the importance of the offering of the four programs which “Provide students with comprehensive curriculum that meets industry standards, equip future teachers with the specialized knowledge and skills needed to support students with diverse learning needs, develop well rounded professionals who understand both the science of human movement, and prepare educators and trainers to effectively integrate technology into vocational and technical education.”  

Dr. Rolando Navarro, Vice President for Academic Affairs, in his welcome address highlighted the activity as “An opportunity not only to showcase the dedication and hard work of our faculty and staff but also an avenue to engage in meaningful dialogue about our commitment to academic excellence.”

The University officials were presented to the accreditors by the University and Board Secretary Atty. Jonalyn Almachar. The accreditors are Dr. Nancy Santiago, Bulacan State University, Coordinator, who presented the team; Dr. Fely Habla, Sorsogon State University, accreditor for Master in Technology and Livelihood Education major in Home Economics; Prof. Fatima Joy Bukong, Mountain Province State Polytechnic College, for Bachelor of Special Needs Education; Dr. Guillermo Sodomia, Eastern Visayas State University, for Bachelor of Physical Education; Dr. Claire Kaplaan Lafadchan, Mountain Province State Polytechnic College, for Master of Science in Criminal Justice Education, Dr. Dionesia Berana, Central Bicol State University of Agriculture, lead accreditor for the Master of Science in Criminal Justice Education; and Dr. Lauren Kipaan, Benguet State University, lead accreditor, (library) Master of Science in Criminal Justice Education.

CTE Dean is Dr. Susan Manzano and Dr. Sina Bestre is the Dean of College of CCJE.

The online accreditation survey visit was facilitated by Quality Management Office headed by Dr. Eva Marie Avila as the Director. Also present during the opening was Dr. Luz Relon as member of the accreditation monitoring team and the faculty members of CTE and CCJE.

Article by Johnny Allagadan, Jr., Photos by Joel Tipon