Manila, Philippines β September 5, 2025 β A moment of pride and historic achievement unfolded today at the Heroes Hall in MalacaΓ±ang Palace as Apayao State College (ASC) was honored with the prestigious Philippine Quality Award (PQA) for the 27th Cycle. The awardβthe highest national recognition for exemplary organizational performance in total quality managementβwas presented by Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin on behalf of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.
The prestigious accolade was received by Dr. John N. Cabansag, President of Apayao State College, together with key institutional leaders: Ms. Jemmarie S. Kotoken, Vice President for Administration and Finance Services; Dr. Ronald O. Ocampo, Vice President for Academic, Research, Development, and Extension Services; Dr. Nobleza C. Sadao, College and Board Secretary; Ms. Brendalyn U. Fernando, Chief Administrative Officer; Ms. Luningning B. Aribbay, Director of Quality Assurance at Luna Campus; and Ms. Mae Ann H. Galande, Director of Quality Assurance at Conner Campus.
The awarding ceremony was also graced by distinguished dignitaries, including Hon. Ma. Cristina A. Roue, Secretary of the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI); Mr. Ruy Y. Moreno, Chair of the 27th Cycle PQA Board of Judges; Dr. Leocadio S. Sebastian, Acting President and CEO of the Development Academy of the Philippines (DAP) and PQA Administrator for the Public Sector; and Dr. Zandra N. Maningas, Vice President of the Philippine Society for Quality and PQA Administrator for the Public Sector. Their presence underscored the significance of this national recognition and the collective efforts toward quality and excellence in the public sector.
Reflecting on this remarkable distinction, ASC President Dr. Cabansag declared, βThis award embodies the collective dedication, passion, and resilience of our entire Apayao State College community. It is not only a recognition of our commitment to quality and excellence but also a springboard to further elevate our standards and service to our students and stakeholders. We stand proud today, inspired to continue leading with integrity and innovation for the future of education in our region and nation.β
He further emphasized the collective achievement of students and faculty in advancing the institutionβs prestige, stating, βOur global standing reflects the dedication of our students, the passion of our faculty, and the collective excellence that defines Apayao State College.β
This significant recognition highlights Apayao State Collegeβs unyielding commitment to excellence, leadership, and continuous improvement in its service to stakeholders and the community. The accomplishment follows a rigorous and highly competitive evaluation process conducted by the PQA Board of Judges and Assessors, affirming ASC as a benchmark institution in the Philippinesβ pursuit of organizational and academic excellence.
The Philippine Quality Award, established through Executive Order No. 448 in 1997 and institutionalized by Republic Act 9013 in 2001, serves to promote superior standards in organizational performance and productivity. Institutions honored with the award set the gold standard for quality management that others aspire to emulate.
In a letter from the Department of Trade and Industryβs Competitiveness Bureau, ASC was commended for its strong leadership, dedicated workforce, and outstanding institutional practices. The award not only recognizes ASC’s achievements but also aligns with the national agenda of building globally competitive and quality-driven institutions.
The 27th PQA Cycle conferral today at MalacaΓ±ang Palace reaffirms Apayao State Collegeβs role as a catalyst for excellence and innovation in higher education, further elevating the institutionβs stature on the national stage.
This landmark recognition stands as a testament to ASCβs visionary leadership and the sustained efforts of its entire communityβpromising even greater achievements and contributions to regional and national development in the years ahead.
photos courtesy of ASC Quality Assurance, DTI-KMIS
