Tarlac State University welcomed the officials of Inter- Global College Foundation, Inc. led by their president Dr. Carmencita L. Medina for a benchmarking activity on April 23, 2025 at the Main AVR.
The visit tackled the university’s best practices in internationalization and linkages efforts, research, and community extension programs.
Office of Quality Assurance - International Accreditation unit head Ms. Liana Faith Q. De Leon Liana showcased TSU’s performance in global rankings such as the Times Higher Education Impact Rankings, Quacquarelli Symonds (QS) Star Ratings, and the World University Rankings for Innovation.
Furthermore, she discussed the university’s approach to achieving these milestones, including the establishment of technical working committees for rankings, per college and/or office coaching and mentoring, and the conduct of capacity-building write-shops.
In addition, Mr. Marco Polo M. Flores, Office of International Affairs and Linkages-Strategic Communications and International Marketing department head, highlighted the university’s efforts to increase visibility through its newly developed OIAL website which serves as a hub for international news, updates, and upcoming engagements.
Apart from the website, Mr. Flores also added that the office’s best practice includes their proactive approach to potential and existing partners.
Moreover, to answer the visitor’s queries, a panel was present led by the TSU vice presidents - Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Agnes M. Macaraeg, Vice President for Research, Innovation, and Extension Services Dr. Erwin P. Lacanlale, along with Engr. Emir Lenard Sicangco, Office of University Extension Services director and Dr. Rogel L. Quilala, Office of University Research Development director.
Dr. Quilala shared insights on the university’s research management structure, emphasizing the importance of dedicated units that oversee, coordinate, and facilitate research aligned with institutional priorities.
Meanwhile, Engr. Sicangco responded to inquiries on sustaining and institutionalizing community extension initiatives.
In response to questions on building global networks, Dr. Macaraeg and Dr. Lacanlale underscored the importance of the integrating the Commission on Higher Education’s Institutional Sustainability Assessment (CHED ISA) their strategic framework and strengthening connection with alumni abroad.
Toward the end of the activity, Dr. Medina expressed her gratitude for the “fruitful” benchmarking experience with TSU.
“Napakabait po ninyo na magbigay sa amin ng information. Hindi niyo po kami pinagdamutan. Na-amaze po ako na wala po kayong itinago sa amin. I am very much thankful po sa inyong lahat,” Pres. Medina said in a message.
This is the second time that the university underwent a benchmarking activity this week.
