Written by Krystianne Diane Labay and Lenilyn Malicdem, Administrative Assistants of RIECO and QAO, respectively
In a time when education is constantly evolving, collaboration between institutions has never been more important. The University of Baguio (UB) and Baguio Central University (BCU) recently came together in a benchmarking initiative rooted in a shared goal: to strengthen the quality of education through open dialogue, shared insights, and mutual learning. This partnership is more than just an exchange of data—it’s a commitment to continuous growth, innovation, and building stronger academic communities for both students and educators.
Held on April 10, 2025, at the UB Management Conference Room (MCR), the benchmarking activity brought together key academic and administrative leaders from both institutions for a day of learning, exchange, and forward-thinking collaboration.
Benchmarking is a vital tool for organizations to enhance their performance and achieve more effective strategies. The UB and BCU partnership is under the C.U.B.E.: M.E. project, which the schools BCU, CCDC, ECI, and UB will undertake joint research activities and projects in all their progream offerings through the Research CEnters and Quality Assurance Offices. This symbolizes a collaboration focusing on measurement and improvement. At its core, benchmarking is the practice of comparing organizational processes and performance metrics to industry standards or best practices. In recent years, UB and BCU have formed a strategic partnership aiming to enhance their benchmarking practices. This collaboration enables both institutions to share knowledge, tools, and methodologies. The partnership optimizes the educational experiences for students and improves administrative efficacy. By focusing on results, the universities can set measurable goals and achieve excellence.
Educational institutions nationwide have been moving toward systematic assessment and benchmarking. Through comparative analysis, universities can identify areas of strength and opportunities for growth. UB and BCU recognized the necessity of collaborating to maximize these benefits.
Representatives from UB are: Dr. Kareen B. Leon, Director of the Quality Assurance Office (QAO); Dr. Donnavila Marie B. Panday, Director of Research, Innovation, Extension, and Community Outreach (RIECO); along with Ms. Nona Christina Gabriel, RIECO staff under Faculty Research; Ms. Michelle Ann Chomayag, RIECO staff under Extension and Outreach Programs; and Ms. Krystianne Diane Labay, RIECO Administrative Assistant; Dr. John V. Balanquit, Dean of the School of Business Administration and Accountancy (SBAA), Ms. Madeline Salvino, faculty member of SBAA; Ms. Lenilyn P. Malicdem, QAO Administrative Assistant; and, Mr. Kristian A. Corpuz, QAO Review Staff.
From BCU, the delegation included: Dr. Perfecto M. Lopez, Vice President for Administration; Dr. Elma D. Donaal, Vice President for Academic Affairs; Dr. Jocelyn B. Ang, Dean of the College of Hotel and Tourism Management; Dr. Cherrie Mae M. Manuel, Dean of the College of Business Administration; Engr. Lorelie S. Malit, Quality Assurance Secretariat; Ms. Sheenah Pear Pangda, Head of the Student Services Office; Ms. Arlene M. Mintas, Community Extension Coordinator; Ms. Clarence Fagyan, Chief Librarian and Engr. Onofre F. Rillera Dean of the College of Engineering.
The contributions of these individuals reflect a broader movement toward embracing innovation in education. Additionally, benchmarking can promote healthy competition among institutions, spurring innovation and enhancing the overall quality of education. As part of their discussions, participants also exchanged experiences and challenges faced in implementing quality assurance systems, research management practices, and student engagement strategies. This candid exchange of knowledge strengthened not only institutional ties but also individual professional growth.
By sharing insights and practices with both institutions, UB and BCU can develop adaptive strategies suited to changing educational demands. The UB-BCU partnership exemplifies the evolution of benchmarking in higher education and attains the Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 4: Quality Education and 17: Partnership for the Goal.
Universities must adapt to ongoing changes, fostering a culture of collaboration and continuous improvement. In doing so, they can ensure success for their students and achieve their institutional goals.
