The External Quality Review for the Bachelor of Arts in Communication and the Bachelor of Fine Arts (Product Design) programs formally commenced on February 11, 2026 at Lawak Sinehan.

The Opening Session began with Welcome Remarks from UP Cebu Chancellor Atty. Leo B. Malagar, followed by Opening Remarks from the Representative of the Reviewers. After the photo opportunity together with the university representatives, faculty and the EQA reviewers, CCAD Dean Crina E. Tañongon delivered a short briefing, outlining the objectives, scope, and significance of the three-day review.

After the opening session, the External QA Reviewers subsequently met with the academic staff of both programs, with introductions led by the respective Program Coordinators. Separate closed-door interviews were also conducted with students to gain direct insight into their academic experiences. In the afternoon, the reviewers toured program facilities and shared university spaces, followed by a meeting with the University staff.

Integral to this year’s review is CCAD’s strengthened environmental advocacy through its “Wala’y Plastikay” initiative. In preparation for Cebu City’s implementation of the no single-use plastics policy, the College deliberately rethought its event logistics and material production for the External Quality Review. Instead of producing new tarpaulin banners, CCAD repurposed and utilized recycled canvas materials for event collaterals and display needs. Digital screens and television monitors were maximized for program flow, schedules, and visual presentations, significantly reducing the need for printed and plastic-based materials.

By prioritizing reusable, repurposed, and digital alternatives, CCAD demonstrates that institutional excellence extends beyond academic standards to include environmental accountability. The “Wala’y Plastikay” campaign affirms the College’s commitment to sustainable creative practice, ensuring that even formal academic processes such as quality assurance reflect responsible and forward-thinking design principles.

The External Quality Assurance process is a systematic and collegial review conducted by independent evaluators to assess whether academic programs meet established standards of quality, relevance, and effectiveness. It supports continuous improvement by identifying strengths, clarifying areas for development, and providing strategic recommendations to ensure that programs remain responsive to the needs of students, industry, and society.