The Southern Philippines Agri-Business and Marine and Aquatic School of Technology (SPAMAST) underwent a virtual evaluation by the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) Office of Programs and Standards Development (OPSD) and CHED Regional Office XI on June 25, 2026, for the issuance of a Certificate of Program Compliance (COPC) for its proposed Doctor of Philosophy in Education Major in Educational Management. The evaluation was led by CHED evaluators Dr. Ruby A. Serrano, Dr. Evelyn S. Ecle, and Dr. Romeo Regino, who assessed the institution’s compliance with national standards and requirements for offering a doctoral program aimed at developing educational leaders and managers.
The activity formally opened with welcome remarks from Dr. Marlyn B. Llameg, Vice President for Academic Affairs, followed by the statement of purpose and procedures delivered by Dr. Evelyn S. Ecle, Education Supervisor II of CHED Regional Office XI. In her message, SPAMAST President Dr. Lynette A. Bontia underscored the institution’s commitment to advancing graduate education and producing competent professionals capable of driving innovation, leadership, and excellence in educational institutions. The evaluation proper involved a thorough review of the program’s curriculum, faculty qualifications, research agenda, learning resources, governance structures, and other quality assurance mechanisms by the CHED technical team and SPAMAST counterparts.
The virtual visit concluded with the presentation of findings and observations by the CHED technical team leader, followed by the institution’s response delivered by Dr. Bontia. Certificates and tokens were subsequently awarded, while closing remarks were given by Dr. Karen E. Cabaloquinto, Dean of the Institute of Professional and Graduate Studies (IPGS). The evaluation represents a significant milestone in SPAMAST’s pursuit of academic excellence and its vision of expanding access to advanced graduate education in the region. Furthermore, the initiative contributes to the achievement of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly SDG 4 (Quality Education) through the promotion of high-quality doctoral education, SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth) through the preparation of highly skilled educational leaders, and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals) through strengthened collaboration between higher education institutions and government agencies in fostering sustainable educational development.
