Representatives from various offices and units across UPOU participate in the first ISO Task Force Meeting.
The University of the Philippines Open University (UPOU), through its Quality Assurance Office (QAO), convened the first meeting of the ISO (International Organization for Standardization) Task Force on 18 May 2026. It brought together representatives from various academic and administrative units across the University to strengthen collaboration and advance a university-wide culture of quality.
This initiative marked an important step in UPOU’s continuing efforts to align institutional practices with the principles and requirements of ISO 9001:2015. It also served as the initial strategic engagement of the newly organized ISO Task Force, which will help guide and coordinate ISO-related initiatives throughout the University.
The meeting was attended by the members of the newly organized ISO Task Force:
- Asst. Prof. Ria Valerie D. Cabanes, QAO Director, Chair
- Ms. Yasele Irene Angela M. Yambao, OC
- Ms. Percia V. Secreto, OVCAA
- Mr. Michael P. Lagaya, OVCFA
- Prof. Myra D. Oruga, FMDS
- Asst. Prof. Edric D. Estrella, FMDS
- Asst. Prof. Regine Karla P. Bagalanon, FMDS
- Asst. Prof. Blancaflor P Arada, FICS
- Asst. Prof. Ruth B. Rodriguez, FICS
More than a coordination meeting, the session focused on translating ISO requirements into practical and actionable initiatives that can be integrated into existing systems and operations. Discussions emphasized how quality management principles may be embedded in daily processes, decision-making, and service delivery across various units.
Key topics discussed during the meeting included gap analysis, policy audits, internal audits, process documentation, and the review of existing systems and practices. These initiatives aim to help the University identify operational strengths, address areas for improvement, and build on established good practices across units.
To support more effective implementation, the Task Force also introduced the organization of workstreams and mini-teams that will focus on specific operational areas and responsibilities. The structure aims to encourage clearer ownership of tasks, more efficient coordination, focused discussions, and parallel work among teams.
The Task Force likewise outlined several immediate action plans, including the conduct of a rapid ISO baseline exercise, collection of existing documents and process records, assignment of temporary workstream leads, scheduling of ISO orientation activities, and preparation for a formal institutional gap analysis.
Through this initiative, UPOU reaffirms its commitment to institutional excellence, collaboration, and continuous quality improvement in support of its mandate to provide quality open and distance e-learning education.
Written by Loren Sta. Ana ⎸ Edited by Ria Valerie D. Cabanes, Anna Cañas-Llamas and Primo Garcia
