With contributions from Dr. Nathalie Ann A. Acosta
Metro Manila, PHILIPPINES—In its continued commitment to instructional innovation and academic excellence, the Office of the Vice-President for Academic Affairs (OVPAA) of Samar State University (SSU), led by Dr. Felisa E. Gomba, spearheaded a five-day study tour and benchmarking activity on June 23-27, 2025. The tour focused on enhancing SSU’s implementation of Digital Learning and Outcomes-Based Education (OBE) through collaborative engagements with in various higher educational institutions (HEI) in Luzon, Philippines.
The first leg of the activity took place at the Bulacan State University (BulSU), where SSU delegates were warmly welcomed by university officials led by President Dr. Teody C. San Andres and VP for Academic Affairs Dr. Warlito M. Galita. One of the highlights of the first day’s program was the comprehensive presentation of BulSU’s Outcomes-Based Education Framework by Dr. Ruben E. Borja II, Director, EDO. He emphasized how BulSU’s OBE model has been instrumental in aligning learning outcomes with program goals and national standards and he also highlighted how OBE ensures that graduates not only meet academic requirements and standards but also possess the competencies required in the real-world setting.
Moreover, Engr. Arvin Julius S. Tullao, MEE Program Chair, shared valuable insights on the integration of Digital Learning with OBE Delivery, showcasing technology-driven approaches to modern teaching and learning.
The second day of the tour brought the SSU delegation to the Rizal Technological University in Mandaluyong City, where President Dr. Ma. Eugenia M. Yangco and VP Dr. Kristine Y. Opulencia led the opening ceremony. A major highlight was the demonstration of E-RTU, the university’s flexible learning management system, presented by IFLDE Director Dr. Faith Micah Balbin. She showcased RTU’s technology-enhanced learning platforms that support varied instructional modalities while promoting student engagement and accessibility.
Additionally, Dr. Melvin N. Ambida, Director for Curriculum and Instruction, provided a deep dive into RTU’s Outcomes-Based Education practices, including curriculum mapping and alignment of learning outcomes. These exchanges offered valuable models for SSU as it advances its own academic program development and implementation strategies.
The educational tour is being participated by Dr. Gomba together with SSU’s Curriculum and Instruction Development Center (CIDC), and the respective College Deans and Campus Directors. For the rest of the tour, the SSU delegation will be visiting the Polytechnic University of the Philippines, Mapúa University, and Bicol University in Legazpi, Albay.
SSU’s benchmarking activity reflects its broader mission to ensure curriculum responsiveness, faculty development, and effective learning systems in the face of evolving educational demands.