MarSU joins national tribute to CHED Chairperson at NNQAA Gala Night

Posted on July 8, 2025 by Information Officer

Manila, Philippines— On June 7, 2025, Marinduque State University (MarSU) President, Prof. Diosdado P. Zulueta, together with Assoc. Prof. Alfredo M. Ofrecio III, Chief,PMS joined distinguished academic leaders from across the country at the Gala Night and Thanksgiving Dinner hosted by the National Network of Quality Assurance Agencies, Inc. (NNQAA), in partnership with Accrediting Agency of Chartered Colleges and Universities in the Philippines (AACCUP) and Association of Local Colleges and Universities Commission on Accreditation (ALCUCOA), held at The Manila Hotel.

The formal event, themed “Leading with Impact: Sustaining, Collaborating, Accelerating”, served as a special tribute in honor of Dr. Shirley C. Agrupis, Chairperson of the Commission on Higher Education (CHED), for her exemplary leadership and lasting contributions to the advancement of quality assurance in Philippine higher education. Dr. Agrupis was also recognized for her previous service as the Director of NNQAA.

In her message, Chairperson Agrupis expressed profound gratitude to the event organizers—the NNQAA, AACCUP, members of the NNQAA Board, and fellow academic leaders—for the meaningful tribute. She underscored the need for a new frame in Philippine higher education—one anchored in excellence, innovation, and integrity.

She passionately declared, “Let us be the reason for the youth to believe na may natitira pang seryosong public servant,” affirming her commitment to public service. She further emphasized, “I believe in education—transformative education,” recognizing it as a powerful tool in shaping lives and building the nation’s future.

Chairperson Agrupis closed by describing the gathering as a true celebration of excellence, highlighting the collective dedication of the academic community to elevate higher education standards nationwide.

The evening featured a ceremonial program led by top officials from NNQAA and its partner agencies, including welcoming remarks from NNQAA President Dr. Anthony M. Penaso, and messages from Dr. Elizabeth A. Montero (Vice President, ALCUCOA), Dr. Milabel E. Ho (Executive Director, AACCUP), and Dr. Manuel T. Corpus (Founding President, NNQAA). The program culminated with the presentation of a Plaque of Appreciation, a ceremonial toast, and “A Night to Remember”.