The AUP Academy welcomed the Adventist Accrediting Agency (AAA) during their chapel convocation at the Philippine International Church on September 17, 2024. “God has a plan for this institution,” emphasized Dr. Bienvenido Mergal, Southern Asia-Pacific Division education director.

The AAA evaluators included Dr. Vicky Mergal, retired AUP assistant vice president for graduate studies; Dr. Mary Jane Zabat, North Philippine Union Conference education director; Agnes Ravalo, North Philippine Union Conference associate director of education; Wilma Reyes, Cavite Mission education superintendent; Dr. Raquel Fajardo, Central Luzon Conference education superintendent; Dr. Vergilio Quimba Jr., North East Luzon Adventist College dean of academics; Jezreel Saquiton, Manila Adventist College financial officer; Jassin Gregorio, Tirad View Academy principal; Luisa Belen Abania, Northern Luzon Adventist College librarian; and Dante Bernal, Adventist Academy Iloilo principal.

The accreditation process spanned for two days, concluding on September 18, 2024. During this time, the AAA team conducted a thorough evaluation of the Academy’s facilities, including the dorm, the cafeteria, and other building infrastructures. They reviewed essential documents and learning modules and conducted interviews with the AUP Academy administrators, faculty, staff, and students.

At the exit report held on September 18, Dr. Gracel Ann Saban, AUP vice president for academics, reflected on the accreditation experience, describing it with four Rs: “Read, re-examine, reflect, and re-affirm.” She encouraged the institution to embrace a “spirit of openness” throughout the process.

Dr. Bienvenido Mergal led the presentation of the general recommendations and suggestions during the exit report. He noted that during the Academy’s last accreditation visit in 2016, there were 60 recommendations given. Of those, 45 were fully accomplished, 11 were partially fulfilled, and only four were not completed. With a 94% completion rate, the Academy achieved Level III accreditation, which signifies excellence.

“Objectively, you are a truly great institution,” Mr. Mergal stated. He acknowledged the challenges the Academy faces but urged the community to “keep excelling in the assignment the Lord has given us, for your labor is not in vain.” He likened the accreditation process to “vitamins for growth,” emphasizing its importance for the institution’s continuous improvement.

Each member of the visiting committee shared partial reports, offering both commendations and recommendations in 10 areas of evaluation. On behalf of the Southern Asia-Pacific Division, Mr. Mergal pledged USD 1,000 to support the AUP Academy’s mission and evangelistic efforts. He commended the Academy, saying it was “well-prepared” for this year’s accreditation.

Ms. Janeth Bacomo, the principal of AUP Academy, expressed her gratitude by presenting a token of appreciation and a certificate to recognize their dedicated time and efforts in upholding the standards of Adventist education.