The University of Northern Philippines College of Technology (CTech) strengthened its pursuit of academic and institutional excellence through a benchmarking visit to the University of Abra–Bangued Campus on September 22, 2026 to gain insights into effective practices, innovations, and strategies that can further enhance its programs and operations.
Led by Dean Dr. Julius Moises Albalos, the CTech delegation, comprising Prof. George Michael Amano, Program Head of the Bachelor of Science in Industrial Technology (BSIT); Engr. John Jericho Arquines; and Prof. Bhernie Jay Tugas, engaged with the University of Abra’s College of Industrial Technology (CIT) to gain insights into its established practices in the implementation, administration, and management of industrial technology programs.
The benchmarking activity provided an avenue for the CTech team to examine institutional processes, program management strategies, and practices that may be adapted to strengthen the delivery and continuous development of the BSIT program at UNP. Through the exchange of experiences and professional insights, the visit sought to identify practical approaches that could further enhance program implementation, academic services, and operational systems within the college.
The CTech delegation received a warm and cordial welcome from the faculty and staff of the University of Abra’s College of Industrial Technology led by its Dean, Dr. Leo Pasos. The welcoming engagement set a collegial tone for the benchmarking activity, providing both institutions an opportunity to establish meaningful professional exchanges and share insights on the effective delivery and management of industrial technology programs.
During the benchmarking session, Dr. Pasos provided an overview of CIT’s practices in program management, curriculum implementation, industry linkages, and quality assurance. He also shared the challenges encountered by the college and the strategies and interventions adopted to address these concerns, offering the CTech delegation practical insights into strengthening program delivery and institutional processes.
Dr. Maria Rebecca Talledo, Director of Curriculum and Instructional Materials Development, further presented the newly implemented Bachelor of Industrial Technology (BindTech) program, highlighting its development and implementation. Complementing the discussions, Dr. Judith Casabar, Program Chair of Industrial Technology, and Prof. Jakielyn Dionio, Program Coordinator for Electrical and Electronics Industrial Technology, shared their experiences and perspectives on program implementation, providing valuable inputs that could inform the continuing enhancement of CTech’s BSIT program.
The benchmarking engagement was further strengthened by the participation of Dr. Noel Begnalen, Vice President for Academic Affairs of the University of Abra, who met with the CTech delegation and expressed his support for the initiative as a meaningful avenue for institutional learning and collaboration.
Student engagement was likewise incorporated into the activity, with representatives of the CTech Industrial Technologists Organization, led by Ms. Ljane Balloguing, joining the delegation to exchange insights with their counterparts from CIT. The discussions focused on student organization management, activity planning, leadership practices, and strategies for promoting active student participation.
The visit also included a tour of the University of Abra campus, laboratories, instructional facilities, and learning resources, allowing the CTech team to observe firsthand the facilities and environments supporting industrial technology education. Beyond the benchmarking discussions, both institutions explored potential areas for future collaboration that could contribute to stronger program implementation, enhanced academic practices, and expanded learning opportunities for students.
Article by John Jericho Arquines. Photo by Ljane Balloging & Arvin Zian Sipin
