Officials from Tarlac State University met with Dir. Ria Valerie Cabanes during benchmarking at UPOU Headquarters
The University of the Philippines Open University (UPOU) hosted the benchmarking visit of Tarlac State University (TSU) on 26 January 2026 at the Pook Ugnayan, UPOU Community Hub in Los Baños, Laguna. The activity aimed to foster knowledge exchange and explore potential collaborations, particularly in the areas of microcredentials, degree programs, and impact assessment initiatives.
Representing UPOU were Asst. Prof. Ria Valerie Cabanes, Quality Assurance Office (QAO) Director, and QAO University Research Associate, Ms. Maelyn Pisuena. Dir. Cabanes facilitated the discussions and shared institutional experiences in open and distance e-learning. The TSU delegation, led by Dr. Robert V. Marcos, Director of the Office of University Research and Development (OURD), included Prof. Anna Maria Soccoro Coloma, Head of the Impact Assessment Unit; Ms. Angel Mikaela Noveda, Head of the Research Publication, Information, and Communications Unit; Engr. Rommel Gadia, Head of the Data Analytics Unit; and Mr. Jeidriel Meg Cabanding, Head of the Analytical Testing Laboratory.
Ms. Maelyn Pisueña and Dir. Ria Valerie Cabanes (UPOU QAO), Dr. Robert V. Marcos, and Prof. Anna Maria Soccoro- Coloma (TSU) during the discussion.
The discussion focused on microcredentials and how UPOU initiated its microcredential offerings. UPOU shared insights on the development process, including collaboration with partner organizations and stakeholders to ensure relevance, quality, and alignment with industry and learner needs. UPOU emphasized the need to manage student expectations, particularly regarding course outcomes, workload, and the scope of competencies that microcredentials can realistically provide.
The discussion also touched on potential partnerships related to impact assessments.
TSU and UPOU Officials and staff members during a photo opportunity and exchange of tokens.
The benchmarking activity concluded with a shared commitment to continued dialogue and collaboration, reinforcing both institutions’ goals of expanding access to quality, flexible, and innovative higher education.
Written and Photos by Marinela Hernandez | Edited by Primo Garcia and Anna Cañas-Llamas
