SLSU–Hinunangan BSA Program Undergoes PRB Inspection, Affirms Compliance with National Standards

The Southern Leyte State University–Hinunangan Campus (SLSU-HC) welcomed officials of the Philippine Regulatory Board (PRB) of Agriculture for an inspection and monitoring activity of its Bachelor of Science in Agriculture (BSA) program on February 25, 2026, held at the SLSU-HC Conference Room. The visit formed part of the Professional Regulation Commission’s continuing quality assurance efforts to ensure that agriculture programs remain compliant with national standards and responsive to the competencies expected of future licensed agriculturists, particularly as the agriculture sector faces increasing challenges linked to food security, climate risks, and sustainable rural livelihoods.

The inspection team was led by Hon. Emma K. Sales, Chairperson of the PRB of Agriculture, with Hon. Annabelle S. Sarabia, PRB Member, and Mr. Raymond Michael, PRC Region VIII representative. They were received by the Dean and faculty members of the Department of Agricultural Sciences and Technology (DAST), together with campus officials, in a review designed to strengthen program quality and confirm that the BSA curriculum and learning systems remain aligned with national expectations for professional practice.

During the monitoring activity, the PRB team reviewed the BSA program’s compliance with Commission on Higher Education (CHED) requirements and assessed the program’s alignment with the Table of Specifications for the Licensure Examination for Agriculturists. The evaluation covered faculty qualifications and expertise, as well as the adequacy and relevance of instructional materials, learning resources, and facilities that support student learning, laboratory competence, and field-based skills development. University representatives presented program documents and discussed how instruction, assessment, and learning support systems are being continuously enhanced to ensure that students develop strong foundational knowledge and practical competencies needed in modern agriculture.

Following the review, the BSA program of SLSU-Hinunangan Campus was found compliant with the minimum requirements set by national regulatory standards, affirming the campus’s continuing commitment to quality agricultural education and licensure readiness. University officials noted that the monitoring activity is also a mechanism for continuous improvement, helping ensure that the program remains outcomes-based, competency-driven, and responsive to the evolving needs of communities and the agriculture industry.

Beyond compliance, SLSU-Hinunangan emphasized that strengthening the BSA program directly advances multiple United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). By building a pipeline of trained agriculturists equipped to support productive and resilient farming communities, the program contributes to SDG 2 (Zero Hunger) through stronger human capital for food production systems and improved agricultural productivity and sustainability. By enhancing program quality, instructional delivery, and student competency development, it supports SDG 4 (Quality Education) through strengthened higher education standards and learning outcomes. Through the preparation of graduates trained in science-based and responsible agricultural practices, the program also aligns with SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production) by promoting sustainable resource use and efficient production systems, while its relevance to climate-resilient agriculture reinforces SDG 13 (Climate Action) by helping build capacity for adaptation, mitigation-aware farming, and risk-informed agricultural decision-making. As graduates contribute to rural livelihoods and local value chains, the program further supports SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth) by strengthening employability and professional opportunities in agriculture-based economies.

Aligned with the mission and goals of Southern Leyte State University as a public higher education institution committed to quality instruction, research, extension, and production services for sustainable development, SLSU-Hinunangan continues to strengthen programs that are locally responsive and globally relevant. The successful PRB inspection reinforces the campus’s role in producing competent, licensure-ready, and community-oriented graduates who can help address food security challenges, promote sustainable agriculture, and contribute meaningfully to the development priorities of Southern Leyte, Eastern Visayas, and the country.