APACC conducts on-site visit to BCAT, Northern Samar, Philippines

Continuing the accreditation of Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutions in the Philippines, the Asia Pacific Accreditation and Certification Commission (APACC) conducted a 1 ½ - day on-site visit to the Balicuatro College of Arts and Trades (BCAT) located in Allen, Northern Samar from August 24 – 25, 2009. The team leader, Dr. Renato Sorolla and team member, Dr. Jariya Tappakul Na Ayuthaya led the mentioned visit.

The institution traced its humble beginnings as a Vocational High School through Republic Act 4164 enacted in 1963, sponsored by the late Congressman Eladio T. Balite of Northern Samar. The then Philippine President Fidel V. Ramos signed into law Republic Act 7915, converting Balicuatro National Vocational School into the present Balicuatro College of Arts and Trades. Its corporate existence as TESDA legislative institution commemorated its first foundation celebration last February 23, 1996. It is presently headed by the Vocational School Superintendent – OIC, Engr. Enrico C. Banario.

The APACC Team with the VSS – OIC, Instructors and Staff of BCAT

Some of the programs offered in BCAT are the following: Automotive Servicing (NC II), Baking/Pastry Production (NC II), Bartending (NC II), Building Wiring Installation (NC II), Carpentry (NC II), Commercial Cooking (NC II), Computer Hardware Servicing (NC II), Dressmaking (NC II), Driving (NC II), Food and Beverage Services (NC II), Front Office Services (NC II), Galing Masahista, Galing Mekaniko, GMAW (NC II), Household Services (NC II), Housekeeping (NC II), Korean Language, Masonry (NC II), Massage Therapy (NC II), Motorcyle and Small Engine Repair (NC II), RAC Servicing (NC II), SMAW (NC II), and Tile Setting (NC II).

Dr. Cleta Omega, Assistant Regional Director and Ms. Elizabeth Garcia – Chief, Regional Office Division of TESDA Regional Office VIII, Mrs. Loreta Banario, Provincial Director (Biliran) and Mr. Zosimo de Asis, Provincial Director (Northern Samar) were in attendance to provide support to BCAT during the accreditation process. During his Closing Remarks, Engr. Banario thanked the APACC Team for understanding the limitation of BCAT, the Regional and Provincial Representatives for their full support and commitment, and the BCAT Instructors and Staff for a job well done.

Dr. Omega mentioned in her speech that the journey to quality is a continuous process; there is always room for improvement; that is why BCAT must maintain what they have started. She commended the institution for their team work and for their optimism. She further gave the conviction that the TESDA Regional Office VIII will always be with BCAT in all their undertakings.

Results of the accreditation status will be declared by APACC in due time.