The University of Northern Philippines welcomed a benchmarking delegation from Bulacan State University (BulSU) on October 8, 2026, as the two state universities exchanged insights on innovative higher education practices, particularly in open and distance e-learning, micro-credentials, and lifelong learning. The benchmarking visit provided BulSU with an opportunity to examine UNP’s approaches and initiatives in advancing flexible, accessible, and continuing education.
The benchmarking visit centered on three key areas of UNP’s educational practices: its Open and Distance e-Learning programs, micro-credentials and short-term certification courses, and initiatives that promote lifelong learning and continuing education. Through these areas, the BulSU delegation examined UNP’s approaches to expand flexible learning opportunities, developing skills-based credentials, and provide accessible avenues for continuous professional and personal development.
Dr. Dolores Bersamina, Dean of the College of Open and Distance Education, led the presentation of UNP’s Open and Distance e-Learning programs, highlighting the University’s approaches to curriculum design, learning infrastructure, platform management, and various delivery modalities. Her presentation emphasized UNP’s continuing efforts to provide flexible, accessible, and inclusive learning opportunities for diverse learners.
As part of the knowledge-sharing sessions, Dr. Flynn Castro, Coordinator of the Expanded Tertiary Education Equivalency and Accreditation Program, presented the programs offered by UNP, along with the University’s established practices and approaches in delivering alternative and flexible pathways to higher education.
Meanwhile, Dr. Sally Jarin, Director of the International Affairs and External Linkages Office, discussed the development and alignment of micro-credentials and short-term certification courses. She highlighted their role in creating flexible, skills-oriented, and industry-responsive learning pathways for lifelong learners. The initiatives were developed with support from Asia Pacific University and IBM, further expanding opportunities for learners to acquire relevant competencies and credentials beyond traditional degree programs.
The Bulacan State University benchmarking delegation comprised 12 representatives from its External Development Office (EDO) and Strategic Planning and Development Office (SPDO), led by Dr. Elmira Thrina Pelayo, Chancellor of External Campuses. She was joined by Dr. Leonora De Jesus, Director of the EDO, and Dr. Daianne Gloria, Director of the SPDO.
The delegation also included Dr. Apolo Francisco, Head of Student Policy Development; Dr. Nataniel Tesnado, Head of Policy Research; Dr. Remelie Robles, Head of the Curriculum and Program Development Unit; Dr. Lilibeth Antonio, Head of the Educational Policy Unit; and Dr. Raquel Adriano, Head of the Teaching and Learning Technologies Unit.
Expressing the delegation’s openness to institutional learning, Dr. Pelayo said they came to UNP ready to learn from and exchange practices with the University, with the goal of adapting relevant insights to BulSU’s own programs and operations.
“We are here ready to accept, learn, and share your best practices with us, and we look forward to applying them in our own university,” Dr. Pelayo said.
She likewise conveyed her appreciation to UNP for welcoming the BulSU delegation and for providing an avenue to share institutional experiences, practices, and insights that could contribute to the continuous improvement of both universities.
The benchmarking activity enabled BulSU to gain deeper insights into UNP’s practices in academic development, curriculum design, educational and student policy, instructional development, and continuing education. It also provided the delegation with an avenue to identify effective practices that could be adapted and integrated into BulSU’s own programs and institutional initiatives.
The visit culminated in a courtesy call with UNP President Dr. Erwin Cadorna, reinforcing the spirit of institutional exchange and collaboration between the two state universities.
The benchmarking initiative highlighted the value of collaboration and knowledge-sharing among higher education institutions in advancing innovative, accessible, flexible, and responsive learning opportunities that address the evolving needs of students and communities.
