Don Mariano Marcos Memorial State University (DMMMSU) has initiated its Internal Quality Audit for the calendar year 2023. This significant undertaking stems from the University’s prestigious ISO 9001:2015 certification, which serves as a testament to its unwavering dedication to upholding the highest standards of quality management.

The audit proceedings commenced on April 20, 2023, in an opening meeting with Dr. Antonio O. Ogbinar, Vice President for Administration. Auditors and process owners were present. During this gathering, VP Ogbinar acquainted the audience with the audit objectives, to gauge the extent of the University Quality Management System (QMS) implementation, ensuring its compliance with the ISO 9001:2015 standard, QMS Manual, and other statutory and regulatory requisites. Additionally, the audit sought to assess the level of adherence to corrective action plans formulated to address the NCs/OFIs issued during the second cycle of the Internal Quality Audit CY 2022. Finally, the audit aimed to foster the continual improvement of the QMS. Furthermore, VP Ogbinar thoughtfully encouraged process owners to welcome the internal quality auditors, emphasizing their pivotal role as partners rather than fault-finders on the path to enhancing service delivery.

Subsequently, the Internal Quality Audit for CY 2023 unfolded as follows: first, from April 24th to 26th, 2023, for Bacnotan Cluster, which covers Central Administration (CA), North La Union Campus (NLUC), Sericulture Research and Development Institute (SRDI), and the National Apiculture Research, Training, and Development Institute. From April 27th to 28th, 2023, the audit took place in the South La Union Campus. Finally, the audit culminated in San Fernando Cluster (MLUC and OUS) from May 8th to 9th, 2023. The University’s accomplished pool of internal quality auditors meticulously reviewed documents, records, and reports intricately tied to the Quality Management System. In addition, they conducted insightful interviews with faculty members, non-teaching personnel, and students, seeking essential feedback on the efficacy and efficiency of the University’s Quality Management System. The audit comprehensively covered a broad spectrum of the University’s units, including instruction, research, extension, and support services, showcasing the institution’s commitment to holistically advancing its operations.

Atty. Kate Potingan C. Licay, OIC Director of IQAS and Lead Auditor, lead the Internal Quality Audit Team in this endeavor. Accompanying Atty. Licay were Dr. Emmanuel J. Songcuan, serving as Head of SLUC-IQAS; Dr. Anny Ross A. Bayan, Head of NLUC-IQAS; Dr. Genevieve C. Cadaoas, Head of MLUC-IQAS; Dr. Luzviminda F. Salamanca, Head of OUS-IQAS; Engr. Rowel M. Munar, Head of NARTDI-IQAS; and Engr. Joanna Rose P. Angayen, Head of SRDI-IQAS. Meanwhile, overseeing this effort were Prof. Nel Bryan C. Tugelida, the University Coordinator for Quality Management Audit; and Ms. Isella Drezden P. Tagura, the University Coordinator for Internal Management Audit. Diligently assisting them were two IQAS Staff members, Ms. Shane Ross E. Banayos and Ms. Angela Louise Flores, who formed an integral part of the Secretariat.

With the DMMMSU IQAS’s meticulousness and unwavering commitment to excellence, this Internal Quality Audit for CY 2023 undoubtedly sets the stage for the University’s continued elevation of standards and ensures the delivery of unparalleled service to its stakeholders. (by idpt)