Pitfalls and Potholes of Accreditation

The research reviewed accreditation processes at Philippine Colleges and universities and found that accreditation systems are ineffective, making it difficult to achieve genuine quality assurance. Achieving high standards of education through Accreditation was the mission of the Philippine Government; however, most of the Philippine higher education institutions (HEIs), especially those in rural areas and/or government-funded, had a fragmented approach to evaluation, limited funds and resources, and inconsistent application of Accreditation criteria. The research examined these issues in the broader context of the country’s broken multi-agency voluntary accreditation system, using archival research and selected personal observations. Additionally, analytical findings on issues surrounding sustainability, equity, and governance were included in the current structure. The conclusion was that it is time for continued reform to bring the Accreditation process closer to the institution’s capabilities, enabling the long-term and significant enhancement of the quality of instruction.