Following the successful evaluation of the Bachelor of Culture and Arts Education (BCAED) program, the University of Northern Philippines (UNP) once again affirmed its strong commitment to delivering quality education. The University recently welcomed a series of onsite evaluations by the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) Regional Quality Assessment Team (RQAT) Region I — a key step in securing the Certificate of Program Compliance (COPC) for several of its existing academic programs. These visits reaffirm UNP’s goal to align with national standards and ensure outcomes-based education that truly responds to the needs of learners and communities.
On July 11, 2022, CHED’s RQAT team evaluated the Bachelor of Science in Interior Design (BSID) program under the College of Fine Arts and Design (CFAD). Guided by CHED Memorandum Order No. 44, s. 2017, the team looked into essential areas such as faculty qualifications, curriculum relevance, available resources, and physical facilities. Dr. Raquel Florendo, Engr. Leonora Quarte, and Ar. Rosanno Baradi led the assessment. Dr. Ashley Paulino Martinez, along with the CFAD faculty and staff, showcased the program’s accomplishments and initiatives—emphasizing their shared commitment to nurturing design professionals who are not only creative and skilled, but also culturally aware and socially responsive.
Shortly after, on July 15, 2025, the University also opened its doors for the RQAT evaluation of the Bachelor of Science in Hospitality Management (BSHM) and Bachelor of Science in Tourism Management (BSTM) of the College of Hospitality and Tourism Management (CHTM). The assessment followed CMO No. 62, s. 2017 for BSHM and CMO No. 34, s. 2017 for BSTM. Dr. Lee Majors Fajilan and Dr. Marie Anne Gali served as assessors. Dr. Blessie Cabanting, together with the faculty and staff of CHTM, led the college’s presentations. They highlighted how the BSHM program prepares students for dynamic roles in the hospitality sector, while the BSTM program equips learners to take part in sustainable tourism planning and development. Like CFAD, CHTM actively prepared for the evaluation, demonstrating its dedication to quality assurance and meaningful academic outcomes. The college highlighted its hands-on approach to learning, strong ties with industry partners, and its vision of producing globally competitive graduates in hospitality and tourism.
Throughout the evaluations, UNP officials, administrators, and academic teams worked together seamlessly to support the process. These efforts reflect the University’s long-standing commitment to academic excellence, continuous improvement, and the delivery of future-ready education that meets both national and global expectations.
Article by Tranny Ilse Tica. Photo by Lilibeth Pizarro.
