USTP Claveria undergoes system-wide ISO 9001:2015 internal quality audit for recertification

By Carlos Ian H. Mendoza, Nueva D. Salaan, STRATCOMM Coordinator, USTP Claveria
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The University of Science and Technology of Southern Philippines in Claveria, Misamis Oriental (USTP Claveria) completed an ISO 9001:2015 Internal Quality Audit (IQA) on October 27, 2025. This audit is part of the university’s ongoing commitment to uphold international standards through its Quality Management System (QMS).

The activity was held in accordance with Memorandum No. 311, series of 2025, dated September 29, 2025, which provides the Updated QMS ISO 9001:2015 Timelines for Fiscal Year 2025. The memorandum, addressed to Chancellors, Vice Presidents, Vice Chancellors, Acting Campus Directors, College Deans, Directors, Section and Unit Heads, Lead Internal Quality Auditors, and all concerned personnel, was issued to ensure alignment and preparation for the university’s 2nd Internal Quality Audit and subsequent External Audit for Recertification.

In reference to the Office of the President Memorandum No. 145, series of 2025, the updated timeline includes the 2nd Internal Quality Audit on October 27–29 and November 5, 2025, the 2nd Management Review from November 10–14, 2025, and the External Audit set on November 18–21, 2025.

Opening Program and Audit Briefing

The Opening Program for the system-wide ISO 9001:2015 Internal Quality Audit commenced with an opening prayer led by Dr. Leny Anasco, Acting Campus Director of USTP Panaon, followed by the welcome remarks of Dr. Vanessa V. Ascano, Vice President for Finance, Resource Management, and Quality Management Lead (VP-FRM/QML).

Dr. Ambrosio B. Cultura II, USTP System President, delivered his message of encouragement, emphasizing the importance of upholding a culture of quality, accountability, and continuous improvement across all campuses. He commended the collective effort of the university system in preparing for the recertification process and aligning institutional goals with ISO 9001:2015 standards.

The program continued with the Presentation of the Audit Plan delivered by Dr. Nueva D. Salaan, IQA Lead Auditor for USTP Claveria, Jasaan, Villanueva, and Balubal, alongside Dr. Charita G. Ong, IQA Lead Auditor for the USTP System Level, CDO, Oroquieta, Panaon, and Alubijid Campuses. The audit plan outlined the schedule, scope, and methodology to ensure all processes within the university conform to the requirements of the ISO 9001:2015 QMS frameworks.

Audit Proper: Evidence and Evaluation

At USTP Claveria, the internal quality auditors thoroughly examined core and support processes, focusing on instruction, research, extension, and administrative services. Offices presented documented information, including office manuals, process flowcharts, quality objectives, risk management matrices, and stakeholder feedback forms, as evidence of compliance.

Interviews were conducted with process owners, faculty, and staff to verify understanding and implementation of the QMS processes. Records of corrective actions, continuous improvement initiatives, and performance monitoring reports were also validated to ensure alignment with the university’s quality objectives.

Audit Continues in Other Campuses

On October 28, 2025, the Internal Quality Audit continued at USTP Jasaan, Villanueva, and Balubal Campuses, where similar procedures were followed. Audit teams verified the effectiveness of quality management practices, ensuring that each campus maintains consistency with the USTP System’s QMS framework.

Each participating campus demonstrated readiness through well-prepared documentation and compliance records that supported the university system’s ongoing pursuit of ISO 9001:2015 recertification.

Commitment to Quality and Excellence

The conduct of the Internal Quality Audit serves as clear evidence of USTP’s dedication to transparency, accountability, and continuous improvement in all areas of operation. It prepares the entire university system for the External Audit scheduled on November 18–21, 2025, which will determine its ISO 9001:2015 Recertification status.

Through the collaborative efforts of all offices and personnel, USTP continues to strengthen its reputation as a premier science and technology institution, committed to delivering world-class education, research, and innovation for sustainable national development.