Table of Contents

i University Vision and Mission

Office of the Student Affairs (Vision and Mission)

ii Enrollement Agreement

Messages
University President
Office of the Student Affairs
USC President / Student Regent

vi The WMSU Story

vii Academic Costumes

viii University Seal

1 Chapter I (Admission and Registration)

Types of Student

3 Chapter II (Policies and Guidlines) - Admission Process

A. Requirements
1. For Incoming Freshmen
2. For Transferees
3. For Second degree applicants and special students seeking credit units
4. Graduate Students
5. Foreign Students
6. Filipinos with dual citizenship
B. Other Admitting Policies
1. For Returning Students
2. Shifting within the University
3. Cross Registration
4. Special Students
5. Admission Status
6. Official Registration
7. Residency
8. University Fees

8 Chapter III (Curricular Changes anad Pre-requisites

Load and Attendance
Grading Sytem Policies
Removal od Conditional Grades

13 Chapter IV (Scholarship and Scholastic Standing)

Scolarship Office
Scholastic Delinquency, Dismissal. Disqaulification
Certificate of Eligibility for Transfer
 Table of Contents
16 Chapter V (Graduation)
Requirements
Graduating with Honors
Baccalaureate

18 Chapter VI (Student Records)

20 Chapter VII (Student Services Aids and Facilities)

20 Chapter VIII (Foreign Students)

21 Chapter IX (Extra Curricular Activities)

25 Chapter X (Student Conduct and Discipline)

Uniform
Identification Card
Didciplinary Activities
Procedures for Investigation
Rules of Discipline Governing Fraternitites,
Sororities and Other Student Organization

39 Appendices
Affirmation of Acceptance of Student Handbook
The Board of Regents
Aministrative and Academic Officials
Recognized University Organizations
University Forms
Curricular Offerings
CHED Memorandum Order No. 17
CHED Memorandum Order No. 23
Songs / Hymns
 University Vision

The Western Mindanao State University shall be the Center of Excellence and
leading institution in human resource development and research in the country and the
ASEAN region with international recognition.

Mission

To educate and produce well-trained, development-oriented and forward-looking

professional and technical manpower for the socio-economic, political and technological
development of the Philippines. It shall endeavor to expand the frontiers of knowledge and
its uses to society through research in technology, the natural resources, physical and social
sciences.

Office of the Student Affairs

Shall formulate programs and activities, and provide services which are geared
towards student welfare and the holistic development of students in coordination with
student personnel services, health, student organizations and publications, student
residences, athletics and other extra-curricular activities, subject to the general supervision
of and under such regulations as may be promulgated by the President of the University;
supervise the Office of Admissions; and perform such other functions as may be deemed
necessary by higher authorities.

Vision
Dedicated in building the capacity of WMSU students for self reliance, initiative,
self management and discipline in an environment of learning to enhance intellectual
curiosity and nurture personal and interpersonal growth

Mission
Provide adequate non academic support programs, activities and services to enable
student to develop moral values integrally as they prepare for their professional lives.

i
 ENROLLMENT AGREEMENT

I, _______________________________. After having read and understood all

(Student’s Full Name)
the contents of this Student Handbook of Western Mindanao State University, do hereby
promise to follow what is stated throughout my stay in this University until I finish my
course.

I hereby agree that discipline in this University is a vital part of personality

development and will preserve the condition necessary to the orderly progress of the
school as well as help in molding the students to become competent and well disciplined
professionals in the future.

I promise to abide by the rules and policies stated herein and will be accountable to
any violation of the provisions of this handbook.

Signed:

________________________________
(Student’s Signature Over Printed Name)

____________
(Course & Year)

_________________________________
(Parent’s Signature Over Printed Name)

ii
 MESSAGE
(University President)

Student are our reason for being as a higher learning institution. Putting academic and extra-
curricular polities, guidelines, systems and procedures into a Students’ Handbook would surely have a positive
impact on their stay in campus starting from their entrance and even beyond graduation.

I look forward to a wide dissemination of this handbook among the students and those who are
involved in student affairs and services in the university. Proper dissemination of the same is vital. It would be a
huge step towards promoting harmonious and meaningful relationship between students, on one hand, and the
faculty and administration, on the other.

I hope that students will take a heart the policies, guidelines and procedures spelled out therein, so
that their days in WMSU will be positive and worth relishing.

I extend my expression of gratitude and appreciation to the Office of the Vice-President for Academic
Affairs, the Office of the Dean of Student Affairs, the offices and members of the University Student Council and
to all who contributed in one way or another to the realization pf the publication of this handbook.

In all our achievements, to God be the glory!

MILABEL E. HO, RN, Ed. D.

University President iii
 MESSAGE
(Office of the Student Affairs)

Welcome to the premier University in the region where a new world of experience and quality
education awaits you. The WMSU family which you are now a member, will create the best educational
foundation possible to ensure that you will meet the standards that is unique to a WMSU student. However, to
meet these conditions there are important matters that are necessary to direct you on the way to success. One
of the many important matters to consider are the policies in the handbook is affecting enrolment, academics,
fees and discipline which were adopted from the newly revised and approved WMSU code. Unlike the code,
the language in this handbook I written in a form that is clear and self-explanatory. In no way is it designed
to impinge on your rights as students but rather facilitate your way through the intricacies of academic life
with a minimum of anxiety. Nevertheless, it is essential that you consult an authority on certain aspects in
the handbook that may be ambiguous and crucial to resolve any predicament you may find yourself in. The
disciplinary measures stated herewith against any violation to school policies are there to work as a deterrent to
guarantee that you finish your chosen course on time. No matter the outcome, this office will exercise prudence,
guidance, compassion and due process at all times before their imposition.

I would like to thank Dr. Milabel E. Ho, our president, for the motivation and the urgent call to
craft and publish the first student handbook, Engr. Aldrin B. Abdurahim, the student regent, for his ideas and
reflective insights to have been included to make the handbook more informative, the WMSU Code committee
and the The University Digest and PAO staff for the lay-out.

Finally, As I foresee the completion of your studies, I hope that your stay with the University will be as
uncomplicated, safe, full of fun and meaningful memories as it should be while working towards accomplishing
your goals.

Good luck and God bless us all.

MILAGROS F. YOSORES, RN., MN

iv
 MESSAGE
(USC President / Student Regent)
AssalamuAlaykum! Greetings of Peace!
It is with great pride and honor to
welcome first year students to the region’s Leading
University-the Western Mindanao State University.
As your path to higher learning continues and
before you reach your ultimate ambition, the
University will better prepare your travel towards a
better destination.
I am encouraging you to enjoy this
journey towards the fulfillment of your dreams. Let
your choice of enrolling in this University be our
collective effort in heightening our participation to
realize our vision and mission.
The Student handbook will provide us
with better analysis of what the University offers to
us. Let this be our guide so that along the travel, we
will not just be oriented of policies and programs
but the very nature of how the University operates.
We remember always that being part
of this University is an Honor. From the moment
you enter this school, it is our choice-the choice
of enjoying and making the best out of our
own experience until you graduate. A friendly
remainder, don’t look on the lapses but as leaders of
this generation, let us offer solution to the increasing
demand of our times nowadays.
Congratulations to the entire team
who conceptualized and prepared this Student
Handbook. Magsukol and Muchisimas Gracias!
Engr. Aldrin Bucoy-Adburahim
Student Regent/Presidents
University Student Council Western Mindanao State University
The University Student Council uphold
its principles as the “Supreme Student Government
of the students, by the students and for the students”.
Our student handbook will serve as our book of life
and survival while we stay in Western Mindanao
State University. Undeniably college life is coupled
with many challenges and obstacles. Our way to
surpass form these is to ensure that we humbly
abide by its mandate. Thus, students themselves
shall be mindful and obedient to the policies of the
handbook.
The students represent the greatest
resource as stakeholders of the University and
therefore, it is imperative that students be geared
towards the propagation of social awareness as well
as heightened consciousness of their rights and
privileges. The handbook will ensure that processes
are observed properly so student concerns are
addressed expeditiously.
As crimsons, our daily experiences in
the university will provide meaningful lessons to
prepare us to a world full of opportunities. You have
to be dauntless to pursue your dreams, keep the
good fight as “it takes courage to be one”.
Just always be reminded that you have your best
friend, the student council, to lean on and will be
your partner in all your undertakings. The USC
will protect your rights as this office stands for your
voice.
ROBERT O. PARCON, RPT
v
 The WMSU Story
With the cessation of the hostilities that marked the end of the Spanish-
American war in 1898, Filipinos and American educators agreed the best way to
rebuild a devastated nation was through the establishment of a sound education system.

Eight normal schools were then established in the Philippines by the Americans. One of them
was the Zamboanga Normal School established in 1918. As a Secondary School, the ZNS offered a
general academic curriculum under the Department of Mindanao and Sulu primarily designed to cater
to the needs of cultural minorities in the provinces of Cotabato, Davao Lanao, Sulu and Zamboanga.

In June 1921, the Secondary curriculum pf Zamboanga Normal School had to be phased out for lack of
enrollees. It was re-opened the following year and eventually producing its first batch of graduates in 1926. Until
the end School Year 1939-40, the general secondary academic curriculum was discontinued. The general normal
curriculum, however, was offered in the college level. It was briefly disrupted with the outbreak of the Second World War.

After the war, the school resumed the operations enabling those who started first
year in the two-year collegiate normal curriculum before the war to continue as sophomore
students. In April, 1946 they were awarded the Elementary Teacher’s Certificate (E.T.C.).
The secondary normal curriculum was offered only during the summer term until 1952.

In 1995, a four-year program leading to the degree of Bachelor of Science in

Elementary Education (B.S.E.E.D.) was offered. The pioneer graduates finished in march, 1959.

Upon its conversion into the Zamboanga Normal College on June 17, 1961 by virtue of
Republic Act (R.A.) No. 3272, the ZNC was placed under the direct supervision of the Bureau of
Public Schools (BPS) until its autonomy in 1963. Gradually, it started to offer new degree programs.

The amendment of RA 3272 on June 26, 1969 by RA 5492 resulted in the conversion of
Zamboanga Normal School into Zamboanga Normal College (ZSC). Considering the demands
of a growing population in a rapidly changing society, the President Ferdinand E. Marcos
signed P.D. No. 1427 on June 10, 1978, marking the birth of Western Mindanao State University.

Since its conversion into a state university. Three university presidents have taken the helm of its
leadership; Dr. Juanito A. Bruno, in acting capacity from 1977 to 1986; Dr. Bernabela l. Ko as the first full
pledged president from 1986 to 1919 and Dr. Erdulfo B. Fernando, who served from 1991-1997. Today
WMSU has a total of 573 teaching and administrative support staff catering to over 10,000 students.

WMSU has since gradually expanded to twelve (12) colleges, offering various courses and major fields of
specialization. It has become the Center of Excellence (COE) and for Teacher Education and Project for basic Education
(PROBE) Center, catering to the needs of its socio-culturally pluralistic clientele. It has likewise etched its name as a
leader in science and technology and nursing education while inching its way towards excellence in the liberal arts.

Source: PAO

vi
 ACADEMIC COSTUMES

COLLEGE/ COLOR
COURSE

Agriculture Golden Yellow

Architecture Green

Asian and Islamic Studies White

Forestry and Environmental Studies Green

Criminal Justice Education Lavender - Golden Yellow

Engineering and Technology Maroon

Home Economics Yellow

Law Purple

Nursing Pink

Physical Education, Recreation, and Sports Crimson and Grey

Public Administration and Development Studies White

Science and Mathematics Orange

Liberal Arts Red and Yellow

Social Work and Community Development

BS Social Work Mint Green
BS Community Development Ecru Blue

Teacher Education Blue

vii
 UNIVERSITY SEAL

The University Colors and Seal. The University colors shall be crimson and white.
White symbolizing purity, unity and truth and crimson symbolizing celestial love of good.
An inner white circle between two crimson circles hems in the University seal. Embla-
zoned in an arc form is the name of the university in bold and white letters. The lower arc
bears the year “1904”, the institution’s original foundation year. Immediately beneath the
date is “Zamboanga City”, the domicile of the first State University in Western Mindanao.

The inner bounded crimson circle with white background describes the true perso-
na of the University in her pursuit for excellence. The sail represents the diversity of the Mind-
anaoan culture and the people’s quest for self-fulfillment; the lighted torch upon an open book
represents the guiding light for academic excellence and truth; the laurel leaves symbolize the
triumph in the pursuit for knowledge and wisdom; and the eagle with outstretched wings de-
picts the power of education and academic freedom for institutional development and distinction

Source: WMSU Code

viii
 Chapter I
Admission and Registration

TYPES OF STUDENTS

I. Guiding Principle. In order to efficiently manage student records, all students should be classified and properly
registered on the basis of their year lever, program, and terms of enrolment.
Student Types by Year Level

a. Freshman. A student who is taking year or the first 25% of the total number of units in his/her
prescribed curriculum.

b. Sophomore. A student who had satisfactorily completed the prescribed subjects of the first year of
his/her curriculum, or has finished not less than 25% nor more than 50% of the total number of units required
in his/her entire course.

c. Junior. A student has completed the prescribed subjects of the first and second year of his/her
curriculum, or has finished not less than 50% nor more than 75% of the total number of units required in his/
her entire course.

d. Senior. A student who has completed the prescribed subjects of the first three academic years of the
curriculum, or has finished not less than 75% of the total number of the units required in his/her entire course.
In a five-or six-year degree program, the last is considered the senior year. Those enrolled in the last term of their
course work are considered graduating students or candidates for graduation.

STUDENT TYPES BY PROGRAM

a. Basic Education Pupils/Students. This refers to pupils in the kindergarten and elementary in the
elementary laboratory school, and the high school students in the secondary laboratory school.

b. Undergraduate or College student. A student who is enrolled in any baccalaureate degree program.

c. Graduate student. A student who enrolled in any post baccalaureate degree programs

d. Non-Degree student /Non-resident student. A student who is enrolled for a certificate or to earn
additional units such as:

1. Cross enrollee. A student who currently enrolled in another school who is permitted
to enroll in the University to earn credit inits or a student in the University who was given
permission to enroll in other school also to earn credit units.

2. Special student. A student who is enrolled but is not earning credit units or is earning
credit units but not leading to a degree

1
 Student types based
on other terms of enrolment

STUDENT TYPES BASED ON THE TERMS OF ENROLMENT

a. New Student Enrolled in the University for the first time;

b. Old Student/pupils Enrolled in the University for more than one semester.

c. Returning Student A student who went on leave of absence and is returning to enroll.

d. Regular Student A student who carries the prescribed academic load.

e. Irregular Student A student who does not carry the prescribed academic load.

f. Readmitted student A student who stops schooling and seeks re-admission.

g. Shifter A student who changes his/her degree or major field.

h. Transferee A student who finished some academic credit units in other schools and intends to
pursue a degree in the University.

i. Cross-enrolling Student A student who is registered in another institution but who, upon the
written permission of appropriate school authorities, seeks to enroll in the University in order to
fulfill the academic requirements of his/her curricular program, subject to the applicable admission
policies of the University. Only graduating students shall be allowed to cross enroll.

j. Second-degree student A student who is enrolled for another degree at the same level as the
degree previously earned.

k. Working student/Part time student A student who is enrolled and at the same time employed.

l. Special Student One who is enrolled for refresher course or who is permitted to enroll in non-
degree/certificate programs even if she/he does not fully satisfy the entrance requirements.

m. Foreign Student Any student who is not Filipino student.

2
 Chapter II
Policies and Guidelines
I. ADMISSION PROCESS
No student shall be denied admission to the University by reason of age, gender, nationality, religious
belief or political affiliation. However, admission to the University is not an absolute and unqualified right but
one to be enjoyed by all under reasonable conditions. A student seeking admission into the University must
meet all applicable admission requirements. The University reserves the right to admit or reject a student on
the basis of merit.
The applicants must come from schools duly recognized by the government and must pledge to abide
by and comply with all the rules and regulations of the University upon admission. Any violation thereof shall
be sufficient cause for summary denial for admission or dismissal from the University.
A. REQUIREMENTS
a.) Apply for admission at the Admissions Office for undergraduate programs and
submit the CET results released by the University’s Testing and Evaluation
Center
1. Graduate School for graduate programs
2. For the Integrated Laboratory Schools (Secondary and elementary
departments) to their respective Principal’s Office together with
Original Form 138-A

b.) Submit all entrance documents required for all entering students

1. Notice of Admission
2. Health Certificate
3. Two copies of latest 2” x 2” recent photo
4. Certificate of Good Moral Character from school last attended
5. NSO certified Birth Certificate

1. INCOMING FRESHMEN
a. All entrance documents
b. Original Form 137 and Form 138
2. TRANSFEREES
a. all entrance documents
b. Original transcript of records
c. Transfer credentials or honorable dismissal
d. Result of College Entrance Test (CET)
e. Passed the screening of the college committee;
f. Not less than 50% of the units required to finish the course are earned
in the University;
g. Vacant slots in the quota set by the Dean of the college.

•Transferees in the secondary and elementary shall be subject to the policies set forth by the
Department of Education
3. SECOND DEGREE APPLICANTS AND SPECIAL STUDENTS SEEKING CREDIT UNITS
a. Availability of Slots (Second degree students may be admitted provided there are
available slots)
b. All entrance Documents
c. Original Transcript of Records
d. Transfer credentials or honorable dismissal
e.Only 50% of the total units earned shall be credited and the courses to be
credited shall be determined by the University
4. GRADUATE STUDENTS
a. All entrance documents
b. Transfer credentials or honorable dismissal
c. Original transcript of records (with special order number or registry order in the
case of students from private schools)
3
 5. FOREIGN STUDENTS
a. Requirements of the Department of Foreign Affairs
b. Admission requirements of the University.
•Transcript of records in English,
•Original passport,
•Alien certificate of registration,
•Certificate of English proficiency or TOEFL result where English is not the
medium of instruction,
•Affidavit of financial support,
•Other appropriate visa from DFA.
–Special Study Permit
–9(f) for student visa
–9(e), 9(e-1) or 9(e-2) for foreign government officials or their dependents
–47(a)(2) for exchange fellows or scholars sponsored by an international
organization
–9(g) for pre-arranged employment (working visa)
•Police Clearance from their Country
6. FILIPINOS WITH DUAL CITIZENSHIP
a. Copy of the Identification Certificate issued by the Bureau of Immigration
b. If classified as Filipino during initial enrollment, he/she will be considered as
Filipino until graduation has to enroll in the National Service Training
Program (NSTP)
B. OTHER ADMISSION GUIDELINES
1. FOR RETURNING STUDENTS.
a. Leave of absence with the Dean of Admissions
b. Clearance and grades of the subjects taken during the last semester of his attendance as
certified by the Registrar
Note: After five years of absence in the curriculum previously enrolled and the curriculum has been
revised, the student is admitted under the revised /or new curriculum.
2. SHIFTING WITHIN THE UNIVERSITY.
a. Recommendation of the Guidance Coordinator of the college or institute in which the
student is currently enrolled.
b.A permit to transfer issued by the Dean of the college/institute at least one (1) week before
the nrolment period together with a complete report of the student’s grades.
c. Approved application for shifting by receiving Dean and Dean of admissions.
3. FOR CROSS-REGISTRATION (for graduating students when courses are not offered during the term)
a. Permission from the President
b. Recommendation by the Dean of the college or institute, through the Vice President for
Academic Affairs.
c. Cross register in schools duly recognized by the University.

4. SPECIAL STUDENTS
a. Admitted if slots are available even without satisfying fully entrance requirements and has
necessary skills to pursue the course.
b. Certificate of Completion or official transcript of records given for satisfactory
performance at the end of the semester.
5. ADMISSION STATUS
a. Probation - status of pupils/students who fail to submit the prescribed entrance
requirements upon enrollment. Requirements should be complied with not later than one
month from the start of classes.
6. OFFICIAL REGISTRATION

The official registration (COR), is a record of subjects in which a student has enrolled and
is submitted to the Registrar’s Office with a furnished copy to the College Dean.
• Registration Guidelines. The provisions of the University Memorandum Order No. 000313 is
adopted to regulate registration:
a.May enroll beyond the registration period specified in the approved school calendar not

4
to exceed two (2) weeks after the opening of classes. No further enrollment is allowed and
the directive applies to the period for adding and dropping of subjects.
b. A student is officially enrolled after submitting appropriate admission or transfer
credentials (for freshmen and shiftee/transferee students) or clearance papers, made
an initial payment of tuition and other fees, and issued a computerized certificate of
registration.
On tuition and other fees, if a student cannot afford to pay in full the total amount
due, an option to make an initial payment of 30%, 40% or 50% of the total amount is allowed.
The unpaid balance shall bepaid partially or in full on/or before the mid-term examinations
and any remaining balance thereafter shall have to be paid in full on/or before the final examinations.

c. For the protection of both the students and the faculty, concerned faculty is to ensure
that students attending classes are officially enrolled by verifying their names in the
official class list which can be downloaded from the University website. Students
whose names do not appear in the official class list are therefore not officially enrolled
and should not be allowed to continue attending classes unless they show proof of
registration.
d. A student who attends classes although not officially enrolled, must be properly
advised to cease attending classes and recommend for the appropriate disciplinary action
for the accompanying act of dishonesty or any analogous offense committed. A student
who manages to complete and pass a subject although not officially enrolled shall not be
entitled to earn credit units.
7. RESIDENCY

Residency refers to the period for which a student should finish and earn a degree inclusive of
the approved leave of absence. A graduating student must officially register for residency and pay only the
residence fee even if there are no more required subjects to be taken. Residency status applies to students who
are expected to finish certain course work, e.g. theses or dissertations, which will require him/her to avail of
University facilities and services. Except for the College of Law, the maximum residency rule applies under the
following conditions:

For transferees, the following added requirements for residency shall be applied.
a. For those pursuing a second degree, three (3) consecutive semesters of residency
immediately prior to graduation.
b. For graduate students, two (2) consecutive semesters of residency immediately prior to
graduation.
c. No extension of the maximum period of residency shall be allowed except in meritorious cases.

GRADUATE
TERM LIMITS UNGERGRADUATE
MASTERAL DOCTORATE
Number of Years to
4 years 5 years 6 years 2 years 3 years
Complete Degree
Number of Years
+2 years +2.5 years +3 years +3 years 4 years
Allowable Limit
-5 yrs -7 yrs (Regular)
(Regular) -6 yrs
-4 yrs (Transferee;
Number of Years (Transferee; another 2 yrs of
6 years 7.5 years 9 years another 1 yr extension with
Maximum Residency of extension
with 6 units 6 units refresher
refresher course every
course) year)

5
 8. UNIVERSITY FEES
Guiding Principle. School fees are fixed by the University Board of Regents. No changes in school fees shall be
effected without approval of the Board of Regents.
1. Type of Fees:
a. Regular and Special Fees.
• Matriculation or regular fees shall include tuition, laboratory, and library, medical and
dental fees.
• Special fees include student publication, student government, ID, athletic, testing fees,
handbook and other authorized fees.
b. Student Fees.
•Fees for student publication, University Student Council, student handbook, research
journal, diploma, graduation fee for graduating students and other authorized fees.
c. Service Fees.
•Fees for late enrollment, changing, adding or dropping of subjects and special service
fees for application, validation, completion of grades official transcript of record, lost ID
cards, spoilage, guidance, testing, certifications and other authorized fees.
d. Out-of-state Fees.
•Fees are levied on foreign students.
2. Terms of Payment.
• All fees shall be paid during enrollment. Other schedules may be made only upon approval by the
University President.
• The University has the right to collect any unpaid school fees and withhold the release of student
records until all accounts shall have been paid.
3. School Fee Discounts.
• In the form of scholarships or grants done before enrollment in coordination with the
Scholarships Office,
• In the case of employee dependents, coordinate with the Human Resource Management Office,
and the Accounting Office subject to existing University policies and guidelines.
4. Adding and Dropping Fees. Fees shall be charged for any of the following reasons:
a. The student enrolled a course s/he/ already finished,
b. The student enrolled in a subject of which he did not pass the prerequisite(s),
c. The student made a mistake in the code number or schedule, and
d. For other reasons acceptable to and approval by the Dean concerned.
No fees shall be levied if the change is prescribed by the Administration after the students has enrolled.
5. Refund of Fees.
1. Students who have paid their tuition fees and are granted Honorable Dismissal, leave of
absence, or authorized withdrawal shall be entitled to a refund of their tuition fees, except
entrance and registration fees.
2. Refund of tuition for a subject may be allowed only in case of forced dropping of such
subject. Forced dropping may mean:
(1) Unauthorized overload,
(2) Illness, and
(3) Conflict of schedule.
3. A student who is dropped from class due to excessive unwarranted absences is not
entitled to a refund.

6
 TERM WITHDRAWAL PERIOD % OF REFUND
Before opening of classes 80%
Within the first week of classes 70%
Within the second of classes 50%
REGULAR Within the third week of classes 20%
After the third week of classes NO REFUND
100% (to be refunded to the
In case of student’s death during the semester
parents / guardians)
Before the opening of classes 80%
Withing the 1st and 2nd days of classes 70%
Withing the 3rd to 4th day of classes 50%
SUMMER
After the 4th day of classes NO REFUND
100% (to be refunded to the
In case of student death
parents / guardians)

D. Specific Rules on Refunds. The rules and regulations pertaining to refunds shall be as follows:
1. Laboratory fees are refunded after two (2) weeks from the opening of classes in case of
voluntary change from one course to another.
2. Any student who is drafted for trainee instruction in accordance with the National
Defense Act may be refunded the proportional part of the total amount of
matriculation fees for the term drafted.

7
 Chapter III
Curricular Changes and Pre-requites
A. General Rules on Curricular Changes and Pre-requisites
1. No Waiver of Course Pre-Requisites. Courses that are prescribed as pre-requisites in the approved curriculum
are strictly observed and no deviation is allowed, except in meritorious cases to be determined by the Dean.

2. Changing of Subjects and Transfer to other Classes.

a. Only allowed for meritorious reasons to be determined by the Dean concerned.
b. In the undergraduate level, no change of subject/ matriculation after twelve (12%) percent of
regular class meetings have already been held
c. In the graduate level, seventeen (17%) percent.

3. Procedure for Changing Matriculation.

a. Fill out matriculation form to be signed by the Adviser, the Department Head and the Dean of the
college;
b. The semester fees are re-assessed and paid at the Cashier’s Office.
c. Keep the copy of the official receipt for future reference.

4. Dropping of Courses. Fill out prescribed form in three (3) copies within two (2) weeks from the start of
classes to be distributed as follows: one for the Registrar, one for the Dean and one for his/her Adviser.

5. Substitution of Subjects. Accomplished within two (2) weeks from the start of classes, and upon the
recommendation of the Program Adviser and the Department Head concerned, the Dean may allow substitution
of subjects if it is satisfactorily shown that a student is pursuing a

B. ACADEMIC LOAD AND ATTENDANCE

1. One (1) University unit of credit is equivalent to at least eighteen (18) full hours of instruction or any
combination of a number of accepted forms of instructions within a semester.

2. Student Specialization. Student specialization in a particular subject or discipline is submitted to the

Department Head/Chair for consideration and approval, together with the subsidiary subjects prescribed for
the student.

3. Overload. An overload of two (2) subjects regardless of the number of units is allowed to a student expecting
to graduate within the school year. A graduating student is one who is in his/her last two semesters of the course
being pursued.

4. Students who are academically deficient shall be unloaded by one or two subjects to allow them to cope with
the work and avoid unnecessary failure.

5. Cross-enrollment for Graduating Students (Cross-registered subjects not exceed nine (9) units, except when
weighted average is 2.0 or better, an additional two (2) or more subjects is allowed in a reputable institution after
accomplishing the following)
•Certification as graduating by the University Registrar
•Recommendation by the college dean and approved by the Vice President for Academic Affairs

8
 •Total academic load does not exceed that which is prescribed for the semester, inclusive of the
cross-registered subjects.
6. Maximum Load for Working Students. Unless otherwise allowed by the Dean, the maximum load of working
students in the University, or of University personnel studying outside of the University, shall be as follows:
•Fifteen (15) units per semester or six (6) units for summer for undergraduate level
•Nine (9) units per semester or six (6) units on summer for graduate students
•Fifteen (15) units per semester or six (6) units on summer for those in the College of Law
•Additional three (3) units above the maximum load for working students who are graduating.

II. ATTENDANCE
Guiding Principle. Regular attendance is required of all students. Attendance is counted upon the first day
of regular classes, regardless of the time of the student’s enrolment. A student who has incurred unexcused
absences of more than twenty (20%) percent of the required total number of class hours and laboratory periods
in a given term shall be considered dropped and shall not be given credit.

1. Rules for attendance shall be strictly followed in all academic units of the University, including
the Department of Military Science and Tactics; the National Service Training Program (NSTP); and Physical
Education, except in the graduate studies and other courses where the Dean may make reasonable modifications
with the approval of the Vice President for Academic Affairs.

2. Absences.
a. Excuses for absences shall be made in accordance with the rules and regulations of the
university. Excuses shall be valid for time missed only. All work covered by the class during the
absence should be made up to the satisfaction of the instructor within a reasonable period of time.
b. When the number of hours lost due to absences reaches twenty (20%) percent of
the prescribed hours of the scheduled work in one subject, the faculty concerned may prescribe a
longer attendance requirement to meet special needs, otherwise, the student shall be dropped. If the
majority of the absences is excused, the student shall not be given a grade of “5.0”. Time lost by late
enrolment shall be considered time lost by absence.
c. The class instructor shall record the objective fact of presence or absence of the student.
An absence from class, even if on school business or at the request of school official is still recorded
as absence.
d. Tardiness. Tardiness beyond fifteen (15) minutes is considered as absence. Tardiness of
fifteen (15) and less for three (3) instances shall be counted as an absence for the purpose of record
keeping.
e. The number of allowed laboratory units depends on the nature of the laboratory
activity. At the start of the semester, this policy should be posted for such laboratory course and
announced in the appropriate programs/classes.

9
 III. Grading System and Policies
I. Grading System in Undergraduate Studies. The work of undergraduate students shall be
reported at the end of each semester in accordance with the following system of grading:

GRADES DESCRIPTION PERCENTAGE

1.0 Excellent 95 and above
1.25 93-94
1.5 Very Good 90-92
1.75 88-89
2.0 Good 85-87
2.5 Fair 80-82
2.75 78-79
3.0 Passing 75-77
5.0 Failure 74 and below
(tacks requirements, and/or final
INC Incomplete
examination)

DROPPED - The student dropped the course whether with authority or not.

1. For transfer students, only subjects with grade of 2.0 or better shall be credited. Courses with grades lower
than 2.0 shall be retaken. (BOR No. 115, series of 1987)

2. A grade of “Incomplete” or “INC” indicates that the work is not completed and given if
a student, whose class standing throughout the semester is passing however
•Fails to submit other requirements for the course
•Fails to appear for the final examination due to illness or for other valid reasons.
If, in the opinion of the Dean, the absence from the examination is justifiable, the student
may be given a special examination.

3. In case the student’s class standing is not passing and the student fails to take the final examination, except if
the failure to take the examination is for meritorious reasons, the student shall be given a grade of “5.0”. ‘INC”
is also given for work that is of passing quality but some part of which is, for some valid reason, unfinished. The
deficiency indicated by the grade of “INC” must be removed within a period of one (1) school year, otherwise,
the grade shall become “5.0”. If the grade of “INC” is to be removed by submitting a written report or term
paper, the final grade may be “3.0” or better if the student passes; if s/he fails, the final grade shall be “5.0”.

4. A student who has received a passing grade in a given course is not allowed a re-examination for the purpose
of improving his/her grade.

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 5. Grading System for Graduate Students. The work of graduate students shall be reported at the end of
each semester or summer term in accordance with the following grading system, except as may be otherwise
provided by the Board:

1.0 - Excellent; 2.0 - Passing

1.25 - Very Good; 2.50 - Conditional;
1.5 - Good; 3.0 - Failure;
1.75 - Satisfactory; INC - Incomplete.

6. For the College of Public Administration and Development Studies, the grading system shall be
in accordance with Board of Regents Resolution No. 28, s. 1994, as follows:
1.00-1.25 - Excellent 1.76-2.0 - Passing
1.26-1.50 - Very Good 2.01-2.50 - Condition
1.51-1.75 - Fair 2.51 and Below - Failure
•In graduate courses, the requirement for graduation shall either be a general grade of “2.0” or better in all
formal courses except thesis. If the student fails to obtain grades which carry graduate credits as required by the
particular graduate school, the University, rules on scholastic delinquency shall be applied.

B . Submission of Grades. Faculty members shall submit their Report of Ratings as soon as possible after the
final examination at the end of each term. A period of fifteen (15) days is allowed for grading of papers and
preparing the report of grades for each class.

In case an Instructor handles several sections and the interval between examinations is
less than five (5) days, he shall submit the Report of Ratings for the various sections at the rate of
one (1) report for every five-day period after each examination. Provided, however, that all reports
of grades must be submitted not later than fifteen (15) days after the final examination. Research
subjects and other subjects similarly situated may require additional week.

1. Unless for meritorious reasons, willful failure or gross neglect to comply with this provision, shall subject the
faculty concerned to disciplinary action in accordance with the rules on administrative discipline in the Civil
Service.

2. No faculty member shall change any grade in the Report of Ratings after it has been filed in the Dean’s Office
or with the Office of the Registrar. In exceptional cases, as where an error has been committed, the Instructor
may request authority from the Dean of his/her college/institute or school to make the necessary change to be
supported by the appropriate affidavit of explanation.

11
 Notwithstanding the foregoing provisions and to avoid any injustice, the grade on a final examination paper
may be reviewed by a committee constituted by the Dean of the school or ccollege/institute if it should clearly
appear, on the basis of the quality of the scholastic record of the student, that such grade is the result of an
erroneous appreciation of the answers or of an arbitrary or careless decision by faculty member concerned.

C. Removal of Conditional Grades

1. Examinations for the removal of incomplete grades shall be taken upon the payment of duly
authorized fee.

2. Removal examinations may be taken any time in accordance with the provisions of the next
succeeding paragraph.

Unless for meritorious reasons to be provided in an appropriate affidavit of explanation to be

executed by the concerned faculty, the period for the removal of “Incomplete” grades shall not extend beyond
one (1) academic year from the date of the submission of the grading reports to the Registrar, otherwise, the
“Incomplete” grade shall automatically be a grade of “5.0”. Provided, that for the purpose of this Article, an
academic year shall include the summer term.

In case of death, permanent incapacity/disability or unavailability of the concerned faculty, the

application for completion shall be filed and acted upon by the Dean concerned.

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 Chapter IV
Scholarships and Scholastic Standing

A. SCHOLARSHIPS OFFICE. There shall be a Scholarships Office which shall act as a central scholarships
office.

2. Scholarship from private donations and grants and other forms of financial aid for students shall be awarded
in accordance with the rules and regulations governing them.

3. All scholarships, private or public and other financial grants shall be published and open to all students
according to the rules governing these.

I. Academic Scholarships

1. Students who graduate as Valedictorian or Salutatorian from public or recognized private schools
may be awarded entrance scholarships. This consists of free tuition for Valedictorians and one-half
free tuition for Salutatorians for one (1) semester.

2. For University scholarships, free tuition and other fees (to be defined) for one (1) semester shall
be enjoyed by all undergraduate students who have obtained a weighted average of at least “1.25”
during the preceding semester, provided, that such students shall have carried an academic load not
less than the required normal load for the semester.

3. For college scholarships, a fifty (50%) percent discount in tuition for one (1) semester shall be
enjoyed by all undergraduate students who have obtained a weighted average of at least “1.5” during
the preceding semester, provided, such students shall have carried an academic load as prescribed in
the immediately preceding ARTICLE.

4. National Cultural Communities Grant-in-Aid in the undergraduate level shall have a quota of
twenty (20) grantees for each indigenous tribe who shall enjoy free tuition and other fees. This quota
is subject to change, upward or downward, at the discretion of the President, provided, however,
that the prospective grantee shall pass all entrance requirements of the University and be properly
recommended by the superintendents of the schools where they come from, and that the family
income must not be more than P70,000.00 a year.

Vacant slots under the said grant may be filled by applicants not belonging to a particular
tribe to accommodate other applicants belonging to cultural communities in Western Mindanao,
only in cases where there are no more available applicants in a particular tribe, after the deadline set
for the filing of application for said scholarship.

5. Student Assistants. Assistantship to various colleges/units is open to all deserving students

including those enjoying scholarships which do not provide for monthly stipends/allowance, may,
during the regular term, be allowed to render services not exceeding one hundred (100) hours a
month nor more than four (4) hours a day, Monday through Friday, or six (6) hours on Saturdays,
13
 or not less than seven (7) hours a day during summer, and shall be compensated in accordance with
the prescribed rate.

6. Free tuition and reasonable allowance may be granted to a varsity athlete who has no failing
grades and carries regular load.

7. Free tuition may be granted to the regular members of the University’s cultural dance, choral or
similar groups, subject to such regulations as may be prescribed by the Board of Regents.

B. SCHOLASTIC DELINQUENCY, DISMISSAL, DISQUALIFICATIONS

1. Scholastic Delinquency. Each college or school shall formulate suitable provisions governing
undergraduate scholastic delinquency, subject to the following minimum standards:

a.Warning. Any student who obtains two (2) failing grades in academic subjects in a
particular semester shall be officially warned by the Dean of the College in which
she/he is enrolled to improve his/her work;

b. Probation. Any student who obtains a final grade lower than “3.0” in fifty (50%) percent
of the total number of subjects should be placed on probation for the succeeding semester,
and his/her load reduced at the Dean’s discretion. Should s/he obtains again the same or
more number of failures, s/he shall be dropped from the rolls of the College; and
Probationary status may be removed only after passing more than fifty (50%) percent of
the units for which s/he is given final grades for the succeeding semester.

2. Except in meritorious reasons, any student who, at the end of the semester, obtains failing marks
in more than fifty (50%) percent of the total number of academic units for which s/he is registered,
shall be dropped from the rolls of his/her college.

3. Any student dropped from one college shall not be admitted to another unless, in the evaluation
of the Dean of the College concerned, his/her natural aptitude and interests qualify him/her to take
another course, in which case s/he shall be allowed to enroll in the appropriate college.

4. Free tuition may be granted to the regular members of the University’s cultural dance, choral or
similar groups, subject to such regulations as may be prescribed by the Board of Regents.

5. The student must obtain the recommendation of the Guidance Counselor before taking the
shifting examination of the college requested for transfer.

c. Permanent Disqualification Except for meritorious reasons, Any student who, at the
end of the semester or term, obtains a failing mark in seventy five (75%) percent of his/her
total academic load, shall be permanently barred from re-admission to the University.

d. Withdrawal. If a student withdraws after one-half of the total number of hours

prescribed for the course has elapsed, the Instructor shall submit a grade of Incomplete,

14
 if his/her class standing at the time of his/her withdrawal he deserves a grade of “3.0” or
better. Otherwise, he shall be given a grade of “5.0”.

C. CERTIFICATE OF ELIGIBILITY FOR TRANSFER

1. An undergraduate minor student who desires to severe his/her connection with the University
shall accomplish all clearances required. Without such, no record of certificate shall be issued.

2. A Certificate of eligibility for transfer or its equivalent is issued for any voluntary withdrawal
from the University with the consent of the Registrar or his/her duly authorized representative.
All indebtedness to the University must be settled before a statement of certificate of eligibility for
transfer will be issued. The statement normally indicates that the student concerned is in good
standing as far as character and conduct are concerned. If the student has been dropped from the
rolls on account of poor scholarship, a statement to that effect may be added.

3. Transfer credentials shall be issued to a student who has been expelled from the University for
cause with an accompanying certification stating the nature of the disciplinary action imposed on
him/her and his/her settlement of University accountabilities shall be issued.

15
 Chapter V
Graduation
A. REQUIREMENTS FOR GRADUATION

1. No student shall be recommended for graduation unless s/he has satisfied all prescribed
academic as well as all other requirements for the course in which s/he is enrolled.

2. Candidates for graduation who had completed all the requirements of the curriculum but
failed to apply for, nor were granted the corresponding degrees or titles, or those who began their
studies under a curriculum that is more than ten (10) years old and who had completed all the
requirements of the curriculum but failed to apply for, nor were granted the corresponding degrees
or titles, shall have their applications for graduation approved as of the date they should have
originally graduated.

3. All candidates for graduation shall make up for their deficiencies and be cleared not later than
five (5) weeks before the end of their last semester, with the exception of those enrolled in the
following academic subjects: Physical Education, Military Science - NSTP, Euthenics and other
subjects as may be prescribed in the curriculum during that semester.

4. No student shall be graduated from the University unless s/he has completed at least fifty (50%)
percent of the total academic requirements of his/her course in the University.

5. No student shall be issued his/her graduation and other credentials unless he/her she has paid
all his/her accounts and other required fees. Such student may, however, upon his/her request
and payment of the necessary fees, be given by the Office of the Dean of the College he attented a
Certification that s/he completed all the requirement of the course.

B. GRADUATION WITH HONORS

ARTICLE 331. Classification of Honors. Academic awards shall be granted to deserving students
who are graduating with the following weighted average:

Cum Laude 1.41 - 1.60

Magna Cum Laude 1.21 - 1.40
Summa Cum Laude 1.00 - 1.20
Provided, further, that in the case of students graduating with honors in courses that require less
than four (4) years to finish, the English equivalent shall be used, namely:

With Honors 1.41 - 1.60

With High Honors 1.21 - 1.40
With Highest Honors 1.00 - 1.20

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ARTICLE 332. Requirements for Graduation with Honors. Candidates for graduation with honors shall
complete at least seventy five (75%) percent of the required total number of academic units or hours in the
University, and shall be in residence of at least two (2) years immediately prior to graduation.

ARTICLE 333. Candidates for graduation with honors shall include only those students who have carried the
prescribed normal load each semester, and those students who may have been allowed to take advance subjects
for exceptional high academic standing.

C. COMMENCEMENT AND BACCALAUREATE EXERCISES

ARTICLE 334. All graduating students are enjoined to attend the commencement exercises.

ARTICLE 335. Graduating students shall obtain their diplomas or certificates and transcript of records from the
Office of the Registrar after paying all the required graduation fees, and presentation of clearance.

17
 Chapter VI
Student Records
Kind of Student Records to be Maintained

1. Academic records of a student, to be kept in the prescribed forms and consist of a list
of the subjects or courses s/he had taken, final grades received, and the actions taken by
the University.
2. Disciplinary and counseling records are highly confidential and should not be made
available to unauthorized persons on campus or to any campus or to any off-campus
agent, except for the most compelling reasons, or by judicial request
3. Personal records of all its students.

Authority to Keep Records

1. University Registrar for all student academic records

2. The Office of the Dean of Student Affairs for all disciplinary record with copies to the
University Registrar and College concerned

Correction of entries in records shall be subjected to the following rules and regulations:
a. Students enrolled only under their true names. No names shall be entered in the enrollment list or
in the Form 18 or Form 10 other than those appearing in the following
a. Birth certificates
b. Baptismal certificates
c. Admission credentials
d. Alien Registration Certificates issued by the Bureau of Immigration and
Deportation in the case of foreign students
e. Aliases are not allowed without judicial approval

b. Request for a change or correction of name supported with the following:

a. Birth certificate
b. Certificate of identity of Alien Certificate of Residence (ACR) and the
Immigration Certificate of Residence
c. Certificate of Identity issued by the University containing thumb marks and pictures
d. Affidavits of parents and another party;

c. In the case of married female students, authentic copies of marriage certificates submitted to the
University for record purposes;

d. After a student has finished the Sixth Grade, no changes in his academic record shall be made
except under the foregoing conditions: A change from the paternal to the maternal surname and
vice versa is regarded as change of name which shall be subject to applicable laws, rules and regulation;

e. All request for correction of entries in the records of the student in the University, including change
or correction of grades, is accompanied by a sworn statement of relevant facts and the payment of a
fee the amount of which shall be determined by the Board.

18
Release of Student Records, Transcript of Records and Certificate of Honorable Dismissal

1. Because of their confidentiality, student’s academic and personal records are not released
even to the faculty, administrative officials or parents and guardians except:
•With a written signed request and only for valid reasons.
•Only upon the consent of the student or the graduate
•Upon subpoena.
2. Information about a student may be given, without the need of a judicial process, to a parent or
guardian of such student, any person designated in writing as guardian if he is a minor, an officer or employee
of a public or private school where the student attends, has attended, or intends to attend, or an officer of a
government or welfare agency of which the student is a client.

3. A statement of honorable dismissal indicates that the student is free of all financial and property
responsibility to the school, is not under term of suspension, and is fully eligible for transfer. A student who
wishes to severe his/her connection with the University by transferring to another school shall request an
honorable dismissal by presenting in person
(1) A written petition to the University Registrar
(2) Properly accomplished clearance slip and payment of the transcript fee

The transcript of records will be sent to the school where the student has
transferred and officially registered upon presentation of his honorable dismissal.

4. A student is entitled to one copy of his/her transcript of records for purposes of

transfer to other schools or upon graduation, and no other copies shall be released upon his/
her presentation of a notarized affidavit showing that his/her first copy was lost or destroyed.

5. No request for the release of a student’s scholastic record or certificate of any kind shall be honored
unless the student concerned presents a properly accomplished clearance slip. Academic records shall be released
at least one week from the date of request. If after that period of time, the student’s requested record is not furnished
him/her, s/he may file his/her complaint formally in writing to the University’s Vice President for Academic Affairs.

6. Honorable dismissal and/or transcript of records applied for at the end of the academic
year will be granted not later than two weeks after the close of that academic year. When applied for
during the long vacation, it should be released not later than five (5) days from receipt of the request.

7. A student who received an “Incomplete” grade should apply for removal
of such grade within the prescribed period before seeking transfer to other schools.

8. Other Records and Documents. A student’s credentials, such as Form 138-A or its equivalent,
transfer credentials, transcript of records, certificate of good moral character, submitted for enrolment
become part of the school records. They may not be withdrawn after registration. The University
reserves the right not to admit, or to dismiss, at any time, any student who submits false credentials.

19
 Chapter VII
Student Services, Aids and Facilities

CURRICULAR CONSULTATION SERVICE

1. Consultation and Guidance System. There shall be a regular system of consultation and
guidance in each college or institute to be offered by the program adviser to student advisees assigned to him/
her in connection with their registration, their assignments, the progress of their academic work, and other
curricular problems. The program adviser affixes his/her initials in the enrolment form before the Dean signs it.

2. No student shall be allowed to enroll in subjects outside of his/her curriculum, or drop, and/
or change any subject or time schedule without the program adviser’s approval. Overloading or underloading of
subjects must be favorably recommended by the program adviser based on the need of the students, and subject
to existing policies, rules and regulations.

Chapter VIII
Foreign Students
1. The Dean of Student Affairs shall look after the welfare of foreign students enrolled in the University.
Foreign students must comply with all the policies, rules and regulations stipulated by the CHED to be eligible
for enrolment. The University reserves the right to dismiss or reject, on its own grounds any foreign student who
seeks enrolment to whom the provisions of this Code shall apply without distinction.

20
 Chapter IX
Extra-curricular Activities

I. STUDENT GOVERNMENT

1. Recognition and Purposes of the University Student Council. The University recognizes the
University Student Council (USC) as an official unit operating with specific powers and responsibilities
concerning student affairs. The USC includes the student body as a whole. It is a student organization within
the University community that gives students an opportunity to participate in various school activities and
in governing its affairs under its own regulation and control in accordance with the University Code, and
applicable rules and regulations.
a)The activities conducted by the student government shall be designed to contribute to the
development of skills and facility in human relations, development of leadership
ability, and the recreational and social needs of students.

2. Composition of the Student Government. The composition of the student government and manner
of electing its officers shall be in accordance with its own constitution and by-laws as approved by the President
of the University.

II. CAMPUS PUBLICATION

Definition and Coverage. The term publication as used in this Code refers to all newspapers, magazines and
other printed media that are authorized, financed, or sponsored by either the University or the student body.

1. General Publication Policies and Guidelines

a) Campus Journalism Act of 1991. All campus publications shall be subject to the provisions of R.A. 7079, the
Campus Journalism Act of 1991, and the rules and regulations necessary for their effective implementation as
promulgated by CHED or any competent authority.

• The newspaper for students of the University shall be devoted to the publication of news
that are of general interest to the students, and it shall not be used as medium for promoting
personal or sectoral interests.

b) Supervision of Student Publications. All student publications shall be under the general supervision of the
Office of the Dean of Student Affairs, except for those publications of the graduate studies of the different
colleges, the general supervision of which shall be with their respective Deans who shall ensure that the editorial
staff adheres to all rules and regulations pertinent thereto.

c) Selecting the Editor-in-Chief of the Student Publication and Term of Office. All student publication editors-
in-chief shall be chosen mainly by means of competitive written examinations, which include the following:
a. Editorial Writing 60%
b. News Writing 25%
c. Layout and Headline Writing 15%
• The competitive editorial examinations shall be given on the second week of March.
A committee of five (5) faculty members with mass media experiences, to be
appointed annually by the President on recommendation of the Dean of Student

21
 Affairs, majority of whom shall come from the list as submitted by the outgoing Editorial
Board, shall be responsible for said examinations. One month thereafter, the results shall be
posted on conspicuous places in the University.

• The student who gets the highest general average in the examination shall qualify as Editor-in-
Chief of the student publication. In case of a tie, the journalistic training and experience of
the candidates shall be taken into consideration.

d) Qualification of Candidates. Only regular bona fide students, at least in their second
year in the University, having a general weighted average of “2.0” or better, who do not have any grade of
“5.0”, “Incomplete”, and who did not drop any subject during the previous semester are qualified to take the
examinations. Candidates for Editor-in-Chief shall present a written certification signed by the Dean concerned
stating that they are responsible persons of good character.

e) Term of Office of the Editor-in-Chief. The Editor-in-Chief cannot hold any other position
in the University. The term of office of the Editor-in-Chief shall be limited to one (1) academic school year.

f) Selection of the Editorial Board of Examiners. The Editorial Board of Examiners may
come from the faculty of the different colleges of the University who shall be recommended by their respective
Deans on the basis of their journalistic talents, training, and experience. Each student publication shall have its
own Editorial board of Examiners irrespective of academic levels. This Board of Examiners shall have the power
to determine the number of members to constitute the Editorial Staff based on the requirements and nature of
the publication. They shall prepare and administer the examination for the selection of the different members
of the official Student Publication Editorial Board.

g) Selection of Publication Adviser. The Publication Adviser who must have mass media experience
shall be selected by the President from a list submitted by the publication staff for that purpose. The function of
the adviser shall be limited to technical guidance.

h) Source and Disbursement of Funds. Student publications shall be financed out of such sums as may
be allocated out of the publication fees to be paid by all students and from whatever income the publication may
generate through subscription, advertisement and other services. Such funds shall be collected by the University
and held in trust for the purpose.
• A student publication is published by the student body through an editorial board and
publication staff composed of students selected by fair and competitive examinations. Once
the publication is established, its editorial board shall freely determine its editorial policies and
manage the publication’s funds. (Sec. 4, RA 7079)

•The Editorial Staff for any student publications shall formulate a system of disturbing and
safekeeping of funds, subject to appropriate standard accounting and auditing procedures as may
be formulated.

i) Liability for Publication. The writer or author of any published ARTICLES shall be held personally
liable for any violation of existing laws, policies, rules or regulations governing campus publications. By the
principle of command responsibility, the Editor and the Publisher shall also be held liable. All reprints must be
with the consent of the author and publisher.

j) Property of Printing. The Editors shall exercise discretion as to propriety of materials submitted
for publication. When in doubt, they should consult the appropriate authorized agencies for publications.
They shall always uphold the freedom of press within the bounds of law. Censorship shall be exercised only on
22
materials which violate the laws governing publications and Code of Journalism.

III. PRESS ARTICLES BY STUDENTS

• Any student who publishes an article, or writes a letter to the press and wants to be identified as a
student of the University, shall affix to his/her own name the name of college or school in which he is registered
together with the word “Student”, and shall keep an authenticated copy of the original script to insure that the
published article or letter had not been edited or had not been taken liberty at the editor to suit the policy of the
publishing media organization.

IV. STUDENT ORGANIZATIONS AND ACTIVITIES

1. Definition of Student Organization. A Student Organization is any association, club, fraternity,

sorority, order or any other organized group whose active officers and members are regular students currently
enrolled in the University.
• University Student Organization is one whose members are enrolled in two or more
different colleges or school;
• College or School Student Organization is one whose members belong to a particular
college or school
• Class Organization is one whose members are enrolled in a class or course in any college
or school. Any student who is not enrolled during the semester or summer term loses his
active membership, and may be reinstated into active status upon enrolment in
the succeeding terms.

2. Supervision of Student Organizational Activities is directly under the supervision of the Dean of
Student Affairs.

• College or school student organizations and class organizations shall be under the control and
supervision of the Dean of the college or school concerned.

• It shall be the responsibility of the respective college deans to supervise and regulate
the activities of all duly recognized student organizations to ensure direction as well as maximal
utilization of their resources and efforts toward the attainment of their avowed and approved objectives.

• Campus organizations, whether student government or not, shall be subject to the rules and
regulations designed to protect individual and collective freedom and to preserve the right of privacy in support
of the educational functions of the University. No campus organization is allowed hazing activities in and
out of the campus. The officers and members taking part in such prohibited activities shall be held criminally
responsible for physical injuries, deaths or damages resulting there from in accordance with existing laws.

23
 3. General Provisions on Student Organizations

I. Each student organization may adopt a constitution and by-laws which shall be submitted to the
Dean of Student Affairs. No student organization shall be recognized as Student Organization in the University
without prior approval in accordance with the following procedure:

a. Apply for recognition in a letter to be submitted to the President through the Dean of
Student Affairs with the following:

1) A copy of the organization’s Constitution and by-laws

2) Objectives/purpose for the creation of such organization
3) List of officers and its members
4) Letter of acceptance and advisorship
5) Plan of activities
6) Other documents which the University may require

b. Committee chaired by the Dean of Student Affairs examines the papers and recommends
for President’s approval of such request for recognition.

c. Certificate of Recognition and registration of the student organization is issued by the

Office of Student Affairs for one (1) academic year.

d. Any student organization which does not renew registration shall automatically be
deemed to have ceased operation.

II. Each student organization shall have one or more faculty advisers. The faculty shall be a full-time faculty
member at the time of his appointment as adviser and shall be under the supervision of the Dean of Student
Affairs.

III. The officers of each student organization shall be elected by the members thereof in accordance with their
respective Constitution and By-laws. Provided, however, that every election of officers of the organization shall
be under the supervision of the assigned faculty adviser.

IV. The officers of student organization shall be responsible and liable for any damage involving school property
or facilities used by the organization.

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 Chapter x
Student Conduct and Discipline
No students of the University shall be expelled, suspended, reprimanded or otherwise disciplined
except for causes provided under this Code or such rules and regulations as may be provided by the Board of
Regents and only after due process.

1. The University Board of Regents shall promulgate uniform internal rules and procedures governing student
conduct and discipline.

2. Every student in the University shall abide by the following Code of Discipline:

a) A student shall at all times observe the laws of the land and the rules and regulations of the
University and the standards of society which include Filipino moral, social and ethical values;

b) A student shall always act with fairness, tolerance, moderation and respect for the opinions and
feelings of others, bearing in mind that education stands for broadness of views and for appreciation and
understanding of principles; and

c) A student shall always be courteous and considerate in all occasions and to behave in a manner
befitting men and women of refinement and good standing.

A. STUDENT IDENTIFICATION

1. School Uniform. Every student must wear the prescribed college uniform unless, for certain valid reasons, s/
he has written exemption from the Dean of Student Affairs which s/he must show on demand. The following
pictures depict the prescribed main uniform for college male and female students. For purposes of appropriate
identification and special student activities, uniforms shall also be worn for practicum, field, sports, and other
activities.

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 a. Students who have no classes but who come to school for research or other non-academic purposes must
wear the uniform

b. Students who are not in uniform shall not be allowed inside the University campus.

2. Individual Identification Card. Every student must have a Western Mindanao State University Identification
Card (ID), duly validated, that must be carried and displayed properly whenever s/he is within the University
premises and classrooms. Any student who lends his/her ID to another person shall be subjected to disciplinary
action. Refusal to wear this within the campus premises gets a corresponding disciplinary action. (Refer to
Student Handbook).

1. The ID card bears the number of the student in the University. This student number is
never changed until s/he graduates.
2. The ID card carries with it authority of the University which should be respected at all
times and should not be tarnished by any means of misdemeanor.

c. The design of the ID card can be changed only by the concerned authority in the University after proper
consultation with Deans of the colleges.

B. DISCIPLINARY ACTIVITIES
Rule 1
TITLE

Section 1.Title -These Rules shall be known and cited as the Uniform Rules of Procedure on Student Discipline
of the Western Mindanao State University

Rule 2
DEFINITION OF TERMS

Section 2. Disciplinary Actions - Refers to the commencement of the procedural mechanism to determine the
innocence or liability of a student for an alleged violation of an offense as contained in these rules.

Section 3. Kinds of Disciplinary Actions:

1) Diversion – refers to the program that the child/minor student in conflict with the law is required
to undergo after he/she is found responsible for an offense without resorting to imposition of other forms of
administrative sanctions. A diversion program may be availed by a student found guilty of an administrative
offense, under these rules, with an imposable penalty of suspension for less than one (1) semester.
2) Stern Warning – An oral warning given for commission a first infraction on any light offense.
3) Reprimand - A written warning issued to an offending student.
4) Suspension - is a temporary disallowance of the student from the entry into the campus and
attendance in classes within a specific period of time for purposes of class attendance or completion of official
school activity. Suspension for at least one (1) semester shall not be effected unless approved by the Board of
Regents. The Maximum suspension imposed for Elementary and High School student shall not exceed 20% of
the total number of school days for the entire school year.
5) Dismissal - After an investigation, a student may be dropped from the university’s roll for having
violated the rules and regulations of the University without prejudice for the student to seek admission in
another Higher Educational Institution (HEI). To be effective, the penalty of dismissal requires the approval of
the Board of Regents.
6) Expulsion - An extreme form of administrative sanction which prohibits the student from
seeking admission in any private and public Higher Educational Institution (HEI)

26
throughout the Philippines. To be valid, the penalty of expulsion requires the approval of
the Board of Regents.

Section 5. Student Disciplinary Tribunal -Shall take cognizance on cases which having the imposable penalties
of 16 days to One (1) year maximum suspension and to review on appeal cases decided by the College Board
of Discipline.

Composition:
a) University Guidance Counselor
b) Faculty of the College Of Law, who shall be designated by the President to hold office
for one year, without prejudice to reappointment for another term.
c) Speaker of the University Student Council Congress, or his duly authorized
representative

A faculty member who sits as a member of the Student Disciplinary Tribunal shall earn an equivalent
of one (1) day of service credit for each day of hearing.

Section 6. University Board of Discipline (Office of the President) - Shall take cognizance of grave offenses
which the imposable penalty is Dismissal and/ or Expulsion, or those cases brought before it on Appeal or
Review. The president shall activate the (UBD) to assist him/her in the conduct of administrative proceeding
falling within his/her jurisdiction.

Composition:
a) Legal Officer
b) President of the University Student Council Senate, or his duly authorized
representative
c) Vice- President for Academic Affairs

Section 7. WMSU Board of Regents - Shall review the decision/ cases of the University Board of Discipline
(UBD) on cases which the imposable penalty is Dismissal and Expulsion or those cases brought before it on
appeal or review.

Rule 4
COMPLAINT

Section 8. Who may Initiate. – Administrative proceedings may be initiated by the disciplining authority motu
propio or upon complaint of any other person.

Section 9. Requisites of Valid Complaint. – Except when initiated by the disciplining authority or his/her
authorized representative, no complaint against a student shall be given due course unless the same is in writing,
subscribed and sworn to by the complainant. In cases initiated by the proper disciplining authority or his/her
authorized representative, a show cause order is sufficient.
No anonymous complaint shall be entertained unless there is obvious truth or merit to the allegations
therein or supported by documentary or direct evidence, in which case the person complained of may be
required to comment.
The complaint in triplicate copies shall be written in a clear, simple and concise language and in
systematic manner as to apprise the person complained of, the nature and cause of the accusation against
him/her and to enable him/her to intelligently prepare his/her defense or answer/comment. However, should
there be more than one (1) person complained of, the complainant is required to submit additional copies
corresponding to the number of persons complained of.
27
 The complaint shall contain the following:
a. Full name and address of the complainant;
b. Full name and address, and college of the person/s complained of
c. A narration of the relevant and material facts which shows the acts or omissions al
legedly committed;
d. Certified true copies of documentary evidence and affidavits of his/her witnesses, if
any; and
e. Certification of statement of non-forum shopping.

The absence of any of the aforementioned requirements may cause the dismissal of the complaint
without prejudice to its refilling upon compliance with the above requirements.

Section 10. When and Where to File a Complaint –Complaint against an erring student may be filed at the office
of the Dean of Student Affairs who shall transmit the same to the proper disciplining board. In the absence of a
private prosecutor, the DSA shall prosecute all administrative cases involving violation of these rules.

Section 11. Withdrawal of the Complaint – The withdrawal of the complaint does not result in the outright
dismissal nor discharge the person complained of from any administrative liability. Where there is obvious
truth to the allegation in the complaint or where there is documentary evidence that would tend to prove the
guilt of the person/s complained of, the same should be given due course.

Section 12. Action on the Complaint – Upon receipt of a complaint which is sufficient in form and substance,
the appropriate disciplining body shall require the person/s complained of to submit a Counter-Affidavit/
Comment under oath within three (3) days from receipt of order requiring him/her/their comment/s

Rule 5
PRELIMINARY INVESTIGATION

Section 13. Preliminary Investigation; Definition – A Preliminary Investigation is a proceeding undertaken to

determine whether a prima facie case exists to warrant the issuance of a formal charge. It involves a fact-finding
investigation or an ex-parte examination of records and documents submitted by the complainant and the
person/s complained of, as well as documents readily available from other government offices.

Section 14. How Conducted – Within five (5) days from receipt of the complaint sufficient in form and
substance, the person/s complained of shall be required to submit his/her/their Counter-Affidavit/Comment.
Where the complaint is initiated by the disciplining authority or his authorized representative shall issue a
show-cause memorandum directing the person/s complained of to explain why no administrative case should
be filed against him/her/them. The latter’s failure to submit the Comment/Counter-Affidavit/Explanation
shall be considered a waiver thereof and the preliminary investigation may be completed even without his/her
Counter-Affidavit/Comment.
If necessary the parties may be summoned to a conference where the investigator may profound clarificatory
and other relevant questions.

For cases filed before the Dean of Student Affairs, the preliminary investigation may be entrusted to a
faculty member of the College of Law, who shall be designated by the President to act as such.

Section 15. Duration of the Investigation – A preliminary investigation shall commence not later than five (5)
days from receipt of the complaint by the disciplining authority and shall be terminated within twenty (20) days
thereafter.

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Section 16. Investigation Report – Within five (5) days from the termination of the preliminary investigation, the
investigating officer shall submit the Investigation Report with the recommendation and the complete records of
the case to the disciplining authority.

Section 17. Decision or Resolution after Preliminary Investigation – If a prima facie case is established during
the investigation, the disciplining authority may issue either a formal charge or a notice of charge/s pursuant to
Rule 6 of this rules.

In the absence of a prima facie case, the complaint shall be dismissed.

Rule 6
FORMAL CHARGE

Section 18. Issuance of Formal Charge; Contents – After a finding of a prima facie case, the disciplining authority
shall formally charge the person complained of, who shall now be called as respondent. The formal charge shall
contain a specification of charge/s, a brief statement of material or relevant facts, accompanied by certified true
copies of the documentary evidence, if any, sworn statements covering the testimony of witnesses, a directive
to answer the charge/s in writing, under oath in not less than seventy-two (72) hours from receipt thereof, an
advice for the respondent to indicate in his/her answer whether or not he/she elects a formal investigation of the
charge/s, and a notice that he/she may opt to be assisted by a counsel of his/her choice.

Section 19. Notice of Charge/s – In instances where the complaint was initiated by a person other than the
disciplining authority, the disciplining authority may issue a written notice of the charge/s against the person
complained of to which shall be attached copies of the complaint, sworn statements and other documents
submitted. The notice shall contain the charges against the person complained of with a statement that a prima
facie case exists. It shall also include a directive to answer the charge(s) in writing, under oath in not less than
seventy-two (72) hours form receipt thereof, and a notice that he/she may opt to be assisted by a counsel of his/
her choice.

Section 20. Prohibited Pleadings – The disciplining authority shall not entertain requests for clarification, bills
of particulars, motions to dismiss or motions to quash or motions for consideration. If any of these pleadings are
interposed by the respondent, the same shall be considered an answer and shall be evaluated as such.

Rule 7
ANSWER

Section 21. Requisites and Contents – The answer, which is in writing and under oath, shall be specific and shall
contain material facts and applicable laws, if any, including documentary evidence, sworn statements covering
testimonies of witnesses, if there be any, in support of one’s case.

Section 22. Failure to File an Answer – If the respondent fails or refuses to file his/her answer to the formal
charge or notice of charge/s within the period provided in the formal charge or notice of charge/s which shall
not be less than three (3) days from receipt thereof, he/she shall be considered to have waived his/her right to
submit the same and the case may be decided based on available records

29
 Rule 8
FORMAL INVESTIGATION

Section 23. Conduct of Formal Investigation; When Held – A formal investigation shall be conducted by the
disciplining authority where the merits of the case cannot be decided judiciously without conducting such
investigation or when the respondent elects to have one, in which case, the investigation shall be held not earlier
than five (5) days nor later than ten (10) days from receipt of the respondent’s answer or upon the expiration of
the period to answer. Said investigation shall be finished within thirty (30) days from the issuance of the formal
charge unless the period is extended by the disciplining authority in meritorious cases.

For this purpose, the Commission may entrust the formal investigation to lawyers of other agencies
pursuant to Section 17 of this Rules.

Section 24. Submission of Position Paper/Memorandum – At any stage of the proceedings, the parties may,
based on their mutual consent, submit position paper/memorandum and submit the case for resolution without
any need for further hearings.

Section 25. Pre-Hearing Conference -Atthe commencement of the formal investigation, the hearing officer shall
conduct a pre-hearing conference for the parties to appear, consider and agree on any of the following:
a. Stipulation of facts;
b. Simplification of issues;
c. Identification and marking of evidence of the parties;
d. Waiver of objections to admissibility of evidence;
e. Limiting the number of witnesses, and their names;
f. Dates of subsequent hearings; and
g. Such other matters as may aid in the prompt and just resolution of the case.

The agreement entered into during the pre-hearing conference is binding on both parties unless in
the interest of parties, the hearing officer may allow a deviation from the same. The conduct of a pre-hearing
conference is mandatory. The failure of the respondent to attend the pre-hearing conference constitutes a waiver
to participate in the pre-hearing conference but may still participate in the formal investigation upon appropriate
motion.

Section 26. Continuous Hearing Until Terminated; Postponement – Hearing shall be conducted on the hearing
dates set by the Hearing Officer or as agreed upon during the pre-hearing conference.

Each party may be granted one (1) postponement upon oral or written request. If respondent fails
or refuses to appear or is not represented by counsel during the scheduled hearings despite due notice, the
investigation shall proceed and the respondent shall be deemed to have waived his/her right to present evidence
in his/her favor during the said hearing.

Section 27. Preliminary Matters – At the start of the hearing, the hearing officer shall note the appearances of the
parties and shall proceed with the reception of evidence for the complainant.
If after being appraised of the right to counsel, respondent appears without the aid of a counsel, he/she
shall be deemed to have waived his/her right thereto.
Before taking the testimony of a witness, the hearing officer shall place him/her under oath and then
take his/her name, address, civil status, age and complete name and address of employment.
A sworn statement of the witness/es properly identified and affirmed shall constitute direct testimony,
copy furnished the other party.

30
 Clarificatory questions may also be asked.

Section 28. Appearance of Counsel – Any counsel who is a member of the Bar appearing before any hearing or
investigation shall manifest orally or in writing, his/her appearance for either the respondent or complainant,
stating his/her full name, Roll Number, IBP receipt and complete address which should not be a P.O. box
address where he/she can be served with notices and other pleadings. If the lawyer is a government employee,
he/she shall be required to present an authority to practice profession which should come from the agency head
or the agency head’s authorized representative.

Section 29. Order of Hearing – Unless the hearing officer directs otherwise, the order of hearing may be as
follows:
a. The prosecution shall present its evidence;
b. The respondent shall present evidence in support of his/her defense; and
c. There may be rebuttal or sur-rebuttal.

When the prosecution of the witnesses has been concluded, the parties shall formally offer their
evidence either orally or in writing and thereafter objections thereto may also be made either orally or in
writing. After which, both parties may be given time to submit their respective memorandum which in no case
shall be beyond five (5) days after the termination of the investigation. Failure to submit the same within the
given period shall be considered a waiver thereof.

Section 30. Objections – All objections raised during the hearing shall be resolved by the hearing officer.
However, objections that cannot be ruled upon by the hearing officer shall be noted with the information
that the same shall be included in the memorandum of the concerned party to be ruled upon by the proper
disciplining authority.

The hearing officer shall admit evidence formally offered subject to the objection/s interposed against
its admission.

Section 31. Markings – All documentary evidence or exhibits shall be properly marked by letters (A,B,C, etc.) if
presented by the prosecution and by numbers (1,2,3, etc.) if presented by the respondent. There shall form part
of the complete records of the case.

Section 32. Issuance of Subpoena – The hearing officer may issue subpoena ad testificandum to compel the
attendance of witnesses and subpoena duces tecum for the production of documents or things.

If a party desires the attendance of a witness and/or the production of documents, he/she shall make
a request for the issuance of the necessary subpoena ad testificandum and/or subpoena duces tecum, at least
seven (7) days before the scheduled hearing.

Section 33. Record of Proceedings – Records of the proceedings during the formal investigation may be taken
in shorthand or stenotype or any other means of recording.

Section 34. Filing of Pleadings – All pleadings filed by the parties with the disciplining authority shall be copy
furnished the other party with proof of service. Any pleadings sent by registered mail shall be deemed filed on
the date shown by and in case of personal delivery, the date stamped thereon by the disciplining office.

31
 Section 35. Formal Investigation Report – Within fifteen (15) days after the conclusion of the formal investigation,
a report containing a narration of the material facts established during the investigation, the findings and the
evidence supporting findings, as well as the recommendations, shall be submitted by the hearing officer to the
disciplining authority. The complete records of the case shall be attached to the report of investigation.

Rule 9
DECISION

Section 36. When case is Decided – The disciplining authority shall decide the case within thirty(30) days from
receipt thereof of the Formal Investigation Report.

Section 37. Finding of guilt or liability –The disciplining authority shall decide the case based on substantial
evidence that the respondent has committed acts stated in the complaint or formal charge.

Substantial Evidence - is such relevant evidence as a reasonable mind might accept as adequate to
support a conclusion.

Section 38. Finality of Decision – A decision rendered by the disciplining authority whereby a penalty of
suspension shall be final and executory and not appealable unless a motion for reconsideration is seasonably
filed. However, the respondent may file an appeal when the issue raised is violation of due process.

Rule 10
SETTLEMENT IN ADMINISTRATIVE CASES

Section 39. Who may avail – In case of minor offenses where the act is purely personal on the part of the
private complainant and the person complained of and there is no apparent injury committed to the University,
settlement of offenses may be considered. Provided that settlement can no longer be applied for the second
offense of the same act committed by the person complained of.

Section 40. Guidelines – The following are the guidelines in the settlement of purely personal matters in
administrative cases:
a) Compromise settlement shall be allowed only for administrative minor offenses where the act
is purely personal between the private complainant and the person complained of and there is no
apparent injury to the University;
b) Upon filling of the complaint, the disciplining authority shall determine whether the
offense is purely personal or can be subject to compromised settlement:
The Following cases may be subject of settlement and/or compromise;
a) Borrowing money by a student to his/her classmate.
b) Willful failure to pay just debts;
c) Simple misconduct resulting from misunderstanding/fight between the parties
provided that the act is not committed inside the campus or within the university premises.
d) Discourtesy in the course of any university or/college mandated activities.
e) Other analogous circumstances/cases.

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 PROCEDURE IN SETTLEMENT AND /OR COMPROMISE

a) If the offense can be the subject of settlement/or compromise, the hearing officer / College Guidance
Counselor assigned shall order the respondent to comment to indicate therein whether he/she is willing to
submit the case for settlement;

b) If person complained of opted for settlement, the hearing officer assigned shall issue an order requiring the
appearance of parties;

c) If settlement succeeds, a compromise agreement shall be executed between the parties and attested by the
hearing officer;

d) The compromise agreement shall be binding on the parties and shall be considered a decision on the merits
which cannot be impugned unless it is shown that there was duress on its execution on any of the parties;

e) A decision shall be issued by the College Board of Discipline based on the Compromise Agreement.

f) If during the settlement process, the parties failed to settle their differences, the hearing officer shall issue an
order terminating the process and continue with the investigation of the case; and

g) In case of non-compliance with the compromise agreement, the case may likewise be reopened for
investigation until the final determination of the case.

Rule 11
SCHEDULE OF PENALTIES

Section 41. Classification of Offenses – Administrative offenses with corresponding penalties are classified into
Minor Offense and Infractions, Serious Offense, and Grave Offenses,depending on their gravity or depravity
and its effects.

Any student found guilty of violation of a minor offense shall be subject to disciplinary action which
has the imposable penalty of Stern Warning for the first offense, Reprimand for the second offense and 3 to 5
days suspension for the third offense are as follows;

Section 42. Failing to use of ID inside the University premises.

a) Penalty for the 1st Offense; Stern Warning
b) Penalty for the 2nd Offense; Reprimand
c) Penalty for the 3rd Offense; 3 days Suspension

Section 43. Allowing another student to wear his/her ID.

a)Penalty for the 1st Offense; Stern Warning
b)Penalty for the 2nd Offense; Reprimand
c)Penalty for the 3rd Offense; 5 days Suspension

Section 44. If the ID is use by a person who is not a bonafide student of the University
a)Penalty for the 1st Offense; 15 days suspension
b)Penalty for the 2nd Offense; 30 days suspension
c)Penalty for the 3rd Offense; Suspension of one (1) semester
33
 Section 45. Loafing/Loitering along corridors that will create disturbance during classes.
a)Penalty for the 1st Offense; Stern Warning
b)Penalty for the 2nd Offense; Reprimand
c)Penalty for the 3rd Offense; 3 days Suspension

Section 46. Unauthorized sit-in on classes.

a)Penalty for the 1st Offense; Stern Warning
b)Penalty for the 2nd Offense; Reprimand
c)Penalty for the 3rd Offense; 3 days Suspension

Section 47. Indecent manner of dressing.

a)Penalty for the 1st Offense; Stern Warning
b)Penalty for the 2nd Offense; Reprimand
c)Penalty for the 3rd Offense; 3 days Suspension

Section 48. Spitting on the face to any student, faculty members, university officials and employee or any persons
in authority.
a)Penalty for the 1st Offense; Stern Warning
b)Penalty for the 2nd Offense; Reprimand
c)Penalty for the 3rd Offense; 3 days Suspension

Section 49. Non compliance to wearing the prescribe uniform.

a)Penalty for the 1st Offense; Stern Warning
b)Penalty for the 2nd Offense; Reprimand
c)Penalty for the 3rd Offense; 3 days Suspension

Section 50. Gambling within the University premises.

a)Penalty for the 1st Offense; 3 days suspension
b)Penalty for the 2nd Offense; 5 days suspension
c)Penalty for the 3rd Offense; 15 days Suspension

Section 51. Smoking in campus.

a)Penalty for the 1st Offense; Reprimand
b)Penalty for the 2nd Offense; 5 days suspension
c)Penalty for the 3rd Offense; 15 days Suspension

Section 52. Entering the university premises under the influence of liquor and bringing alcoholic beverages
inside the University.
a)Penalty for the 1st Offense; Reprimand
b)Penalty for the 2nd Offense; 5 days suspension
c)Penalty for the 3rd Offense; 15 days Suspension

Section 53. Possession and used of pornographic literature and magazines, to include those found in electronic
devices e.g. (cellphones, laptop, ipod and other similar devices)
a)Penalty for the 1st Offense; Reprimand
b)Penalty for the 2nd Offense; 5 days suspension
c)Penalty for the 3rd Offense; 15 days Suspension

Section 54. Verbal insults upon a student or any members of the faculty/University official/employee or persons

34
in authority.
a)Penalty for the 1st Offense; Reprimand
b)Penalty for the 2nd Offense; 5 days suspension
c)Penalty for the 3rd Offense; 15 days Suspension

Section 55. Unlawful taking of university property, personal property of employees, students and guests of the
University.

Value of the property is less than Php. 1000.00

a)Penalty for the 1st Offense; 3 days suspension
b)Penalty for the 2nd Offense; 5 days suspension
c)Penalty for the 3rd Offense;15 days Suspension
If the value of the property is less than Php. 10,000.00
a)Penalty for the 1st Offense; 5 days suspension
b)Penalty for the 2nd Offense; 15 days suspension
c)Penalty for the 3rd Offense ; 30 days suspension

Section 56. Cheating in Quizzes, exams, Class papers, researches and thesis.
a)Penalty for the 1st Offense; 5 days suspension
b)Penalty for the 2nd Offense; 15 days suspension
c)Penalty for the 3rd Offense; Suspension for 1 semester

Section 57. Intentionally punching, boxing, slapping, kicking, bullying, or hitting fellow student or any conduct
which physically harm or threatens, endanger the health and safety of any person in the University.
a)Penalty for the 1st Offense; Stern warning and 3 days suspension
b)Penalty for the 2nd Offense; 5 days suspension
c)Penalty for the 3rd Offense; 15 days Suspension

Section 58. Malicious mischief, Vandalism and defacing any walls and other university property or those
belonging to other students, employee or visitors of the university.
a)Penalty for the 1st Offense; 3 days suspension
b)Penalty for the 2nd Offense; 5 days suspension
c)Penalty for the 3rd Offense; 15 days Suspension

Serious Offenses are administrative offenses which carries the imposable penalty that ranges from 16
days minimum 1 month medium and one(1) semester to one (1) year suspension as maximum penalty.

Section 59. Threatening any student/personnel in the university or his/her immediate family members to suffer
bodily harm or to be subject of any other crime.
a)Minimum Imposable Penalty; 16 days suspension
b)Penalty for the 2nd Offense; 1 Month suspension
c)Penalty for the 3rd Offense; One semester to One year Suspension

Section 60. Inflicting any form of physical injury on a student and faculty/ administrative employee or any
person in authority. (The degree of injuries sustained will depend on the gravity of the imposable penalty which
is dismissal or expulsion as the case may be)
a)Minimum Imposable Penalty; 16 days suspension
b)Penalty for the 2nd Offense; 1 Month suspension
c)Penalty for the 3rd Offense; One semester to One year Suspension

35
 Section 61. Misbehavior while under the influence of liquor within the university premises.
a)Minimum Imposable Penalty; 16 days suspension
b)Penalty for the 2nd Offense; 1 Month suspension
c)Penalty for the 3rd Offense; One semester to One year Suspension

Section 62. Oral defamation committed against a person in authority in the university community.
a)Minimum Imposable Penalty; 16 days suspension
b)Penalty for the 2nd Offense; 1 Month suspension
c)Penalty for the 3rd Offense; One semester to One year Suspension

Section 63. Maligning any student, employee or person in authority with the use of traditional or social media.
a)Minimum Imposable Penalty; 16 days suspension
b)Penalty for the 2nd Offense; 1 Month suspension
c)Penalty for the 3rd Offense; One semester to One year Suspension

Section 64. Civil Disturbance with the use of Firecracker and other similar incendiary devices.
a)Minimum Imposable Penalty; 16 days suspension
b)Penalty for the 2nd Offense; 1 Month suspension
c)Penalty for the 3rd Offense; One semester to One year Suspension

Section 65. Abusive and gross deliberate discourtesy to any University official faculty members, person in
authority, such as, but not limited Disgraceful or immoral conduct within the university premises, such as
but not limited to exhibitionism, sexual intercourse, petting and the likes in the classroom or anywhere in the
campus or any acts committed that will bring dishonor to the university.
a)Minimum Imposable Penalty; 16 days suspension
b)Penalty for the 2nd Offense; 1 Month suspension
c)Penalty for the 3rd Offense; One semester to One year Suspension

Grave offenses are those administrative offenses that has the imposable penalty of dismissal and
expulsion as the case may be, any student/s that have been found guilty of any violation of law/statutes.

Section 66. Melee (Rumble)

a) If committed by the student who is not a member of any fraternity involved and as a result thereof
less serious or serious physical injuries has been sustained to any student, University officials,
persons in authority, and employee. Imposable penalty; Dismissal

b)In the course of melee death occurred as a result thereof. Maximum Imposable Penalty; Expulsion

c)If committed by the student who is a member of any fraternity, sorority gang, and other student
organization. Maximum Imposable Penalty; Expulsion

Section 67. The use of any deadly weapon or any item similar in nature that will cause fatal injuries to a person
like brass knuckles, baseball bat and other similar devices.
Maximum Imposable Penalty; Expulsion

Section 68. Committing Forgery or alteration of official documents and seal of the University.
Imposable penalty; Dismissal

Section 69. Hazing ,Initiations, corporal punishment and other form of initiation rites enumerated in R.A.8049
otherwise known as “The Anti-Hazing Law and such activities resulted the following:
36
 a) Less/serious Physical injuries sustained by a neophyte Imposable penalty; Dismissal
b) Death occurred as a result thereof. Maximum Imposable Penalty; Expulsion

Section 70. Sale, trafficking, possession or used of prohibited drugs or chemicals or other prohibited substance
enumerated in R.A. 9165 otherwise known as “The Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002.
Maximum Imposable Penalty; Expulsion

Section 71. Illegal possession of firearm and explosives and other deadly weapon.
Imposable penalty; Dismissal

Section 72. Any student who willfully falsifies public document in connection with his/her admission, grades
and other relative documents issued by the university or other government agency.
Imposable penalty; Dismissal

Section 73. Any acts that will disrupt the peace and causing wide-spread terror in the university community that
resulted in massive chaos and confusion among the University community.
Maximum Imposable; Expulsion

WMSU Board of Regents - Shall review the decision / cases of the University Board of Discipline on cases which
the imposable penalty is Dismissal and Expulsion.

Section 74.Mitigating and Aggravating Circumstances – In the determination of the penalties to be imposed,
mitigating and aggravating circumstance attendant to the commission of the offense shall be considered.
The following Circumstances shall be appreciated:

For Mitigating Circumstance;

a) First Offense
b) Physical illness
c) Good faith
d) If the defendant is a minor
e) Voluntary confession
f) Other analogous circumstance

For Aggravating Circumstance;

a) Habituality
b) If done with Malice
c) Member of any Fraternity/ Sorority and other organization
d) Used of any deadly weapon or other similar devices
e) Other analogous circumstance
f) Offended party is a minor or person in authority

In the appreciation thereof, the same must be invoked or pleaded by the proper party, otherwise,
said circumstances will not be considered in the imposition of the proper penalty. The disciplining authority,
however, in the interest of substantial justice may take and consider these circumstances motu propio.

Section 75. Manner of Imposition – When applicable, the imposition of the penalty may be made in accordance
with the manner provided herein below:
a) The minimum of the penalty shall be imposed where only mitigating and no aggravating
circumstances are present.
b) The medium of the penalty shall be imposed where no mitigating and aggravating circumstance
37
 are present.
c) The maximum of the penalty shall be imposed where only aggravating and no mitigating
circumstance are present.
d) Where aggravating and mitigating circumstances are present, par.(a) shall be applied, where there
are more mitigating circumstance are present, par. (b) shall be applied, when the circumstances
equally offsets each other; and par. (c) Shall be applied when there are more aggravating
circumstances are present.

Section 76. Penalty for the Most Serious Offense – If the respondent is found guilty of two (2) or more charges,
or counts, the penalty to be imposed should be that corresponding to the most serious charge and the rest shall
be considered as aggravating circumstance.

Rule 12
MOTION FOR RECONSIDERATION IN DISCIPLINARY CASES

Section 77. Filling – The party adversely affected by the decision may file a motion for reconsideration with the
disciplining authority that renders the same within five (5) days upon receipt thereof. A motion for extension of
time to file a motion for reconsideration is not allowed.

Section 78. When deemed filed - A motion for reconsideration sent by registered mail shall be deemed filed on
the date shown by the post mark on the envelope which shall be attached to the records of the case. In case of
personal delivery, it is deemed filed on the date stamped thereon by the proper office.

Section 79. Grounds – The motion for reconsideration shall be based on any ofthe following:
a. New evidence has been discovered which materially affects the decision rendered;
b. The decision is not supported by the evidence on record;
c. Errors of law or irregularities have been committed prejudicial to the interest of the movant.

Section 80. Limitation – Only one motion for reconsideration shall be entertained. If a second motion for
reconsideration is filed notwithstanding its proscription under this rule,the finality of the action shall be
reckoned from the denial of the first motion for reconsideration.

Section 81. Effect of filling – The motion for reconsideration within a reglamentary period of five (5) days shall
stay the execution of the decision sought to be reconsidered.

Rule 13
APPEAL IN DISCIPLINARY CASES

Section 82. Filling – Subject to Section 45 of these rules, decisions of the heads of the disciplining authority
imposing the penalty of dismissal and expulsion may be appealed to the WMSU Board of Regents with in a
period of fifteen (15) days from the receipt thereof.

Section 83. When deemed filed – An appeal sent by registered mail shall be deemed filed on the date shown by
the postmark on the envelope which shall be attached to the records of the case. In cases of personal delivery, it
is deemed filed on the date stamped thereon by the proper office.

38
 Appendix

Affirmation
This is to acknowledge that I received the STUDENT HANDBOOK.

Further, I bind myself to read thoroughly, understand, abide by and faithfully observe all
the rules and regulations contained herein and finally, my failure to comply with any and
rules and regulations of the institution may be used as sufficient grounds for disciplinary
action.

CONFORME:

_______________________________
Name of Student

_______________________________
Year and Section

_______________________________
Date Received

39
 Salient Features of the Student Rights and Welfare Bill

I. RIGHT TO ADMISSION WITHOUT UNDUE DISCRIMINATION

No student shall be denied admission to any school on account of his/her physical handicap, socio-
economic status, political and religious beliefs, sexual orientation or membership of student organizations, nor
shall pregnant students certified reformed drug abusers and those suffering from immune deficiency syndrome
be discriminated against
Failure of or refusal of student to sign waiver documents prepared by the school administration shall
not constitute a ground for his/her non-admission.
Students shall have the right freely to choose his/her fields of study subject to existing curricula and
to continue his/her course up to graduation except in case of academic deficiency or violation of disciplinary
regulations that do not infringe upon the exercise of student’s rights and welfare.

II. RIGHT TO COMPETENT INSTRUCTION AND RELEVANT QUALITY EDUCATION

Every student shall have the right to competent instruction and quality education relevant to his/her
personal and cultural development and that of the nation.
Students shall have the right to make a written evaluation of the performance of their teachers towards
the end of the school term.

III. RIGHT TO ADEQUATE WELFARE SERVICES AND ACADEMIC FACILITIES

It shall be the responsibility of the school administration to provide the students with adequate
welfare services and academic facilities relative to the financial capacity of the school.
The school shall endeavor to provide free annual physical check-up to the students. It shall be the
responsibility of the school authorities to provide students with adequate laboratory, library, research, recreation
and physical education facilities.
It shall be the responsibility of the school administration to promptly notify student concerned of
letters and other communications it receives in behalf of the students.

IV. RIGHT TO ORGANIZE STUDENT ORGANIZATIONS

Unity and collective effort being fundamental in realization of common goals and the promotion and
protection of common interest, the State recognizes the rights of the students to organize among themselves.
The rights of the students to form, assist, or join other organization, alliance or federation for their
physical, intellectual, moral, cultural, civic, spiritual, and political interest shall not be abridged. Pursuant
thereto, the practice of making students sign waiver document which states that they are not members of and
will not join a specified organization before being allowed to enroll is hereby prohibited.

V. RIGHT TO BE ACCREDITED AND GRANTED OF PRIVILEGES TO STUDENT ORGANIZATIONS

No unreasonable requirements shall be imposed on student organization seeking recognition.
Accreditation shall be granted upon the submission by the organization concerned of its concept
paper and constitution and a formal letter addressed to the student council stating the organizations intent to
be accredited.
At tertiary level, the student council in coordination of the student affairs office shall take charge of
the accreditation and re-accreditation of student organizations. The student council and the council of leaders
composed of heads of different student organizations shall formulate the guidelines concerning accreditation
jointly. The student council shall oversee the implementation of these guidelines and mediate in instances of
conflicts.
There shall be no discrimination in the assignment of school facilities and granting of other privileges

40
to student organizations. The school administration shall endeavor to provide, free of charge, a hall of or
building to house the offices of the different student organizations within the premises of the school.
Excessive charges for the use of school facilities shall be prohibited. Whenever possible, the school
administration shall allow student organizations to use school facilities free of charge.
All on and off campus activities of student organizations shall be coordinated by the student council/
government.

VI. RIGHT TO ORGANIZE A STUDENT COUNCIL/GOVERNMENT

The State shall ensure the existence of democratic autonomous student councils/governments.
Pursuant thereto, there shall be one university student council/government for each school campus that shall
be given recognition by the schools, colleges and universities concerned. It shall have its own set of officers
elected in annual popular elections. Every student council/government shall have the right to determine its
policies and programs on student activities subject to its duly ratified charter or constitution and to school rules
and regulations provided the same do not infringe on the basic human rights.

VII. STUDENT COUNCIL/GOVERNMENT CHARTER OR CONSTITUTIONS

The Student Council/Government Charter or Constitution shall be formed by the representatives of
all student organizations in a school and shall be ratified by the student body.

VIII. FORMATION OF THE STUDENT COMMISSION ON ELECTIONS

There is hereby created a Commission on Elections (COMELEC) that shall conduct and oversee the
election of officers of the student council/government. The Student Affairs Office shall choose the members of
the Commission from among the list of the nominees recommended by the student council/government.
Once constituted, the COMELEC shall be independent and autonomous from any sector of the school
and shall ensure the conduct of clean, honest and peaceful elections. The school must provide the COMELEC
sufficient funds to ensure the success of its goals and objectives.

IX. PROHIBITION IN THE USE OF FORCE AND EXACTION OF EXCESSIVE FEES

All campus organizations shall be prohibited using force in the initiation of and exacting excessive
fees from their members as well as their other student activities.

X. REPRESENTATION IN POLICY – MAKING BODY

As far as practicable and consistent with school rule’s and regulations, there shall be a student
representative in the policy-formulating body of the school. The duly elected student representative from
the selection process of the Student Council/Government shall represent the student body to the policy-
making body. He shall have the same rights as that of the regular member, but his privileges shall be limited to
reimbursement for actual expenses in attending meetings.

XI. RIGHT TO BE INFORMED

The rights of the students to information on matters directly or indirectly affecting their welfare shall
be recognized. Access to official records and other pertinent documents and papers pertaining to official act,
transactions or decisions shall be afforded by the students subject only to reasonable regulations that maybe
imposed such as time for examining the documents and other papers to prevent loss or damage of the same.

XII. FREEDOM OF EXPRESSION

Subject to existing laws, students shall have the right to freely express their views and opinions. They
shall have the right to peaceably assemble and petition the government and school authorities for the redress
of their grievances. Pursuant thereto, no school regulation shall be imposed violating or abridging the student’s
right to assembly.
Student shall have access to print and broadcast media in their information activities. They shall also

41
 have the right to print, circulate and/or mount leaflets, newsletters, posters, wall news, petitions and such other
materials. Pursuant thereto, the school authorities shall ensure the provision of facilities such as bulletin boards
for the mounting of the aforementioned materials.
School authorities may designate a certain area on every campus as a freedom park where students,
can freely discuss issues directly and indirectly affecting them.

XIII. STUDENT PUBLICATION

Students shall have the right to publish student newspaper and other similar publications, print in
their pages materials that they deem in pursuance of their academic freedom and freedom of expression in
accordance with Republic Act NO. 7079, otherwise known as the “Campus Journalism Act of 1991.” Pursuant
thereto, no individual who is not a staff member of the publication shall determine its content. The role of the
faculty adviser in the student newspaper shall be limited to technical guidance.
The selection of the student editor-in-chief and his/her staff shall be made by annual fair and
competitive examinations to be administered by an impartial Board of Judges.
The editorial staff shall observe the ethics of professional journalism. It shall be the responsibility of
the editorial staff to ensure that the student paper is not used for purposes contrary to law.
The editor/editorial staff shall, unless sooner removed for cause and with due process, be assured of
security of tenure for the duration of his/her its prescribed term.

XIV. ACADEMIC FREEDOM

Students’ academic freedom shall consist of, but not limited to, the following rights:
• To conduct researches in connection with academic work, and to freely discuss and publish
their findings and recommendations;
• To conduct inquiry within the campus in curricular and extra-curricular activities;
• To choose a field of study and to pursue the quest for truth; to express their opinion on any subject
or public or general concern which directly or indirectly affects the students of the educational
system;
• To invite off-campus speakers or resource persons to student-sponsored assemblies, fora,
symposia, and other similar activities;
• To express contrary interpretations or dissenting opinions inside and outside the classroom;
• To participate in the drafting of a new curriculum and in the review or revision of the old;
• To participate in the drafting and/or revising of the student handbook which shall include the
school rules and regulations, a copy of which shall be furnished the students upon admission to the
school; and
• To be free from any form of indoctrination leading to imposed ideological hegemony.

XV. RIGHT TO DUE PROCESS

A student subject to disciplinary proceedings shall have the right to defend himself, to be heard and
to present evidence on his/her behalf before an impartial body. There shall be a Student Disciplinary Board to
be composed of one (1) representative from the school administration, two (2) faculty members and two (2)
students to conduct investigations into and decide on cases of student violations of disciplinary standards. Both
the faculty and the student representatives shall be endorsed by the student council/government.
The blacklisting, expulsion, suspension and other such disciplinary sanctions that maybe taken
against a student shall not be valid unless the following rights have been observed and accorded the student:
• The right to be informed in writing of the nature and cause of the accusation against him/her;
• The right to confront witness against him/her and to full access to the evidence in the case;
• The right to defend himself/herself and to be defended by a representative or counsel of his/her
choice, adequate time being given to him/her for the preparation of his/her defense;
• The right to a hearing before the Student Disciplinary Board;
• The right against self-incrimination; and
42
 • The right to appeal adverse decision of the Student Disciplinary Board to the governing board and
ultimately to the appropriate education agencies.
The decision in any disciplinary proceeding must be rendered on the basis of relevant and substantial
evidence presented at the hearing, or at the least contained in the record and disclosed to the student affected.
The deciding body should, in all controversial questions, render its decision in such a manner that the
issues involved, and the reasons for any decision rendered are made clear to the student.
Disciplinary sanction shall be corrective rather than punitive or penal in nature. The gravity of
disciplinary sanctions must be proportionate to the seriousness of the violation committed.
The Office of the Guidance Counselor of the respective schools in consultation with the Student
Disciplinary Board shall publish on a periodic basis acts that are deemed violative of the school rules and
regulations and the corresponding disciplinary sanctions. Provided, that such rules and regulations do not
violate the rights guaranteed herein and under the Constitution.

XVI. RIGHT AGAINST UNREASONABLE SEARCHES AND SEIZURES

Every student shall be free from any form of unreasonable search and seizure. Except for the following
instances no search or seizure of a student shall be deemed valid:
• Searches made at the point of ingress and egress by authorized personnel of the school;
• Searches and seizure of illegal articles or articles falling in the plain view of dully authorized
personnel;
• Searches and seizures of articles that are illegal, discovered inadvertently by duly authorized
personnel;
• Searches made when the student is about to commit, is committing or has just committed a crime
or a serious infraction of the school’s rules and regulations;
• Searches made with a valid search warrant.

Articles seized in violation of the hereinabove provided rights shall not be used as evidence against
the student in any disciplinary action that may be brought against him/her.

XVII. ACCESS TO SCHOOL RECORDS AND ISSUANCE OF OFFICIALS CERTIFICATES

Subject to the provision of the following section, every student shall have access to his/her own school
records, the confidentiality of which the school shall maintain. He/She shall have the right to be issued official
certificates, diplomas, transcripts of records, grades, transfer credentials and other similar documents within
thirty (30) gays from the filing of request and accomplishment of all pertinent requirements.

XVIII. SECURITY OF TENURE

It shall be the right of students to finish their entire courses of study in a given school, except in cases
of academic deficiency or violation of disciplinary regulations.
In cases wherein the school authorities refuse to allow a student to enroll for the subsequent semester
or year due to the causes hereinabove stated, the student may appeal such ruling to the appropriate education
agency

XIX. PROHIBITION AGAINST INVOLUNTARY CONTRIBUTIONS

Except those approved by their own student organizations, all-involuntary contributions shall be
prohibited.

XX. COLLECTION OF STUDENT PAPER AND STUDENT COUNCIL FEES

The school administration shall assist the student paper staff and the student council/government, in
their financial needs through the collection of student paper and student council fees from the students.
The student paper fees shall be held in trust for their unhampered use in the publication of student
paper.
43
 The full amount of student council fees shall be turned over to the student council within fifteen (15)
days from the assumption of office of the Student Council Officers.

XXI. PRIVACY OF COMMUNICATION

The privacy of communication and correspondence among students shall remain inviolable.

XXII. SCHOLARSHIP GRANTS AND PRIVILEGES

Opposition to school policies inimical to students’ interest shall not be a ground for denying or
withdrawing scholarships grants and privileges to deserving students.

XXIII. RIGHT TO ADEQUATE AND SAFE HOUSING/DORMITORY FACILITIES

The state and the respective school authorities shall endeavor to provide the students adequate, safe
and clean housing facilities.

XXIV. PROHIBITION AGAINST MILITARIZATION OF THE SCHOOL CAMPUS

The pursuit of academic excellence and exercise of academic freedom can be attained only in an
atmosphere free from fear and unreasonable restraint. Pursuant thereto, no military detachment shall be
installed on the school campus.
Military elements and/or policeman in uniform or in plain clothes and school security forces shall not
interfere with student activities, particularly peaceful mass actions, inside the school campus.

XXV. FIREARMS BAN

Students shall not be allowed to carry firearms inside the school campus.
They shall be required to deposit such firearms with the school security force prior to their entry to
the school premises.

44
 Western Mindanao State University
Board of Regents

Hon. MINELLA C. ALARCON, Ph. D.

Commisioner, CHED
Chair-designate, WMSU BOR

Hon. MILABEL ENRIQUEZ-HO, RN., Ed. D.

President, WMSU
Vice-Chairperson, WMSU BOR

Hon. PIA S. CAYETANO

Chairman, House Committee on Higher & Technical Education

Hon. RAMON T. ROMULO

Chairman, House Committee on Higher & Technical Education

Hon. TERESITA SOCORRO C. RAMOS

Rehional Director, NEDA-IX

Hon. MYL JOHANN R. AMSID, Ph. D.

Private Sector Representative

Hon. EDWIN G. TO
Private Sector Representative

Hon. RAMON M. OCHOTORENA, Ph. D.

President, WMSU Alumni Association, Inc.

Hon. EDGAR R. ARAOJO

President, WMSU Faculty Union

Hon. ROBERT O. PARCON

President, University Student Council

Hon. BRENDA L. NAZARETH-MANZANO

Director, DOST-Region IX

Dr. YOLANDA E. ALCALA

University and Board Secretary

45
 Administrative, Academic Officials
Dr. MILABEL ENRIQUEZ-HO
President

Dr. MA. CARLA A. OCHOTORENA

Vice President for Academic Affairs

Dr. JOSELITO D. MADROÑAL

OIC-Vice President for Administration and Finance

Dr. CHONA Q. SARMIENTO

OIC-Vice President for Research, Extension Services & External Linkages

Dr. TERESITA A. NARVAEZ

OIC-Vice President for Resource Generation

Dr. MA. SOCORRO YVONNE H. RAMOS

Chief of Staff, Office of the President

ADORACION E. IGNACIO
Resident Auditor / Audit Team Leader
Representative of the Commision on Audit
Academic Deans
Arch. DOMINGO A. ABARRO III Dr. ADRIAN P. SEMORLAN
Dean, College of Architecture Dean, College of Liberal Arts

Dr. RICARDO DANILO E. CORTEZA Dr. RICARDO A. SOMBLINGO

Dean, College of Physical Education, Recreation & Sports Dean, External Studies Unit

Prof. EFFRENDY M. ESTIPONA Dr. BAGIAN ALEYSSA A. ABDULKARIM

Dean, College of Criminology / Security Officer Campus-B Dean, College of Social Work & Community Development

Dr. NOLAN S. IGLESIA Dr. NURSIA M. BARJOSE

Dean, College of Teacher Education Dean, College of Nursing

Prof. FREDE G. MORENO Dr. OFELIA MAE. F. BRIOSO

OIC-Dean, College of Public Administration &
Development Studies
Dr. ROBERTO M. SALA
Dean, College of Engineering and Technology
Prof. FREDELINO M. SAN JUAN
Dean, College of Forestry & Environmental Studies
Atty. EDUARDO F. SANSON
Dean, College of Law
Dean, College of Science and Mathematics
Dr. MARILOU C. ELAGO
Coordinating Dean of Graduate School
Dr. JOCELYN O. PEDROSO
OIC – Dean, College of Agriculture
Prof. LUCIA M. SANTOS
Dean, College of Home Economics
Prof. EDDIE M. LADJA
Dean, College of Asian And Islamic Studies

46
 Non-Academic Officials
Prof. LUCIO C. SOMBLINGO
Dean, DES and Non-Formal Education
Dr. VICENTA T. ESCOBAR
Dean of Admissions
Directors
Mr. HASHIM N. ALAWI
Director of the Alumni Relations Office
Mr. NASSAL SALIH T. ALLIAN III
Director, Univ. Extramural Program / Asst. Dir. Of Student
Affairs
Engr. WESLEY JOSEPH L. BARREDO
Director for Operational & Preventive Mgt. of Mech.
Facilities
Prof. RICARDO G. ELIZALDE
Director, Scholarship Office
Mr. JOHN RAYMOND M. JIMENO
Director, Faculty & Administrative Sports
Dr. FELIXBERTO C. LABASTILLA
Director, NSTP
Mr. REYNALDO R. MACASO, JR
Director, University Intramural Programs
Atty. JULES CHRISTIAN D. MARCOS
University Legal Officer / OIC of the Office of the Director
for Administration
Dr. MARIO R. OBRA JR.
Director, Internal Relations Office
Engr. AQUILINO V. PEREZ
Director, Physical Plant / Univ. Engineer
Ms. MA. LOURDES B. ALBA
Director of Finance
Mrs. FINI JOY BUENAFE
OIC Director, Career & Placement Off / Guid. &
Counselling Office (Scholar)
Prof. JULIE U. CABATO
Director, Language Dev. Resource Center
Dr. MARCELINA G. CARPIZO
Director, Peace & Human Security Insitute
Mr. REYNANTE E. AUTIDA
OIC - Dean of Research, Development & Evaluation
Center / OIC ISA
Prof. MILAGROS F. YOSORES
Dean of Student Afafirs
Prof. ROSALYN R. ECHEM
Director, Gender Research & Resource Center / DRDF
Dr. LOURDES B. FILOTEO
Director, Testing and Evaluation Center
Dr. GLORIA G. FLORENDO
Director, Special Programs & Projects
Mrs. BERHANA I. FLORES
Director for Instructional Support & Materials Production
Dr. CLAIRE A. MADRAZO
OIC-Director of the Center for Continuing Education
Mrs. SALUD LAQUIO
Director of Auxiliary Services
Ms. MELANIE F. LEAR
Director for Centro de Cultural y Estudio Chavacano
Mrs. DEZZA S. MOHAMMAD
Director for the Internal Audit Office
Dr. VIVIAN R. MOLINA
Director for the University Center for Local Governance
(UCLG)
Dr. TERESITA A. NARVAEZ
Director, WESMARRDEC
Prof. CIELITO C. OLEGARIO
Director, MISTO
Prof. ALITA T. PANGILINAN
Director, OCTA
Mrs. AUBREY F. REYES
Director, Sentro ng Wika at Kultura
Prof. ELSA A. SAAVEDRA
Director of the Curriculum Development Office
47
 Dr. MILAGROS C. TAN Dr. LEA E. USMAN
Director, Distance Educ. & Open University System Director, Public Affairs Office

Prof. EULYN H. TANGALIN Dr. SUSAN P. DELA CRUZ

Director, BIDANI Program Director, Quality Assurance Center Office

Dr. JULIETA B. TENDERO

Director, RUPID
Heads of the Graduate Schools
Dr. DANILO RICARDO E. CORTEZA Dr. BAGIAN ALEYSSA A. ABDULKARIM
College of Physical Education Recreation & Sports BSSW & MSW Dept. Head

Prof. ILDE B. DELORIA Dr. ELADIA U. RIVERA

College of Engineering and Technology College of Nursing

Prof. EFFRENDDY M. ESTIPONA Ms. MARITESS A. BARRIOS

College of Criminal Justice Education CHE Graduate School

Dr. FREDE G. MORENO Dr. RHUDAINA Z. MOHAMMAD

College of Public Administration & Development Studies College of Science and Mathematics

Dr. ADRIAN P. SEMORLAN Dr. SOCORRO REBECCA B. FELONIA

College of Liberal Arts College of Teacher Education

Campus Administrators
Prof. PEPITO L. LACBAO
Campus Coordinator of San Ramon Campus

Dr. MA. ARLINDELA E. RAMIREZ

Campus Adm. Of WMSU Curuan – External

Dr. CHRISTINE V. YAMBAO

Campus Administrator of WMSU Malangas - External

ILS Principals

Prof. RICARDO Z. ARANETA

Principal – Integrated Laboratory High School

Dr. ANNA LOUISA R. PEREZ

Principal - Integrated Laboratory Elementary School

48
 Section Chiefs

Engr. OSCAR T. ALBURO

University Electrical Engineer

Dr. BENHUR A. ASID

University Librarian

Mr. RYAN JOSEPH M. DELA TORRE

Chief, Security Services Unit

Dr. MARIO GAPOY

Medical Officer III

Mr. ALFREDO D. MONTERO

Supply Officer III

Prof. CLARO R. POTENCIANO, JR.

OIC, Office of the Planning Officer

Engr. OSCAR S. SICAT

Planning Officer II (On Scholarship)

Arch. NOLI D. TAJORES

University Architect

Mr. CRISTINO S. BASILIO JR.

Head, Motorpool / Labor General Foreman

Mr. RICHARD S. HAMJA

President, APA

Dr. YOLANDA E. ALCALA

University and Board Secretary V

Ms. ROSALIE T. ARCILLAS

Accountant III

Mrs. NIDA J. CAINGLET

Budget Officer III

Mrs. PILAR S. ENCARNADO

University Registrar

Mrs. ERLINDA C. MACASO

Records Officer III

Mrs. MA. TERESITA J. RODRIGUEZ

Human Resource Management Officer III

Mrs. GINA T. SOMBLINGO

Cashier III

Mrs. CAROLINA E. TEJERO

Property Management Office

49
 Recognized University
Organizations

Muslim Student Association

WMSU Youth Peace
Christ Youth in Action
Chapter of Friend Connection
Scintilla Legis
Scintilla Juris
The New Blazer
The University Digest
University Student Council
WMSU-Supreme Red Cross Youth Council
University Gender Club
WMSU League of Debaters
J’ALERT
University Theater Guild
Grand Chorale
Lakandiwa
United Nation Youth Asso. of the Philippines
WMSU-Rotaract
HANDOG
The Philippine Student Alliance Lay Movement-Psalm
A Touch of Japan Club
Alpha Kappa Rho
Alpha Phi Omega
Alpha Sigma Phi
Deta International
Kappa Rho Kappa
Order of Demolay
Order of the Rainbow
Scouts Royale Brotherhood
Tau Gamme Phi
Upsilon Phi Sigma
Zeta Phi Omega
Lifebox
Youth for Christ

50
 University Forms

APPLICATION FOR LEAVE OF ABSENCE

1. Name (Last) (First) (Middle)

2. Date of Filing Year, Level & Course College

TERM OF LEAVE APPLIED School Year

( ) Semester(s) ( ) First ( ) Second ( ) Summer 20___ to 20___
( ) Year(s) 20___ to 20___
( ) Extension (s) 20___ to 20___

REASON(S)

Specified date of Return:

Semester School Year

Details of Action of Application

A. Recommendation
( ) Approved
( ) Dissaproved due to

College Dean Program Adviser

Department Head
B. Approved for:
School Year
( ) Semester(s) ( ) First ( ) Second ( ) Summer 20___ to 20___
( ) Year(s) 20___ to 20___
( ) Extension (s) 20___ to 20___

C. Disapproved due to

Dr. VICENTA T. ESCOBAR

Dean of Admission
51
 Republic of the Philippines
WESTERN MINDANAO STATE UNIVERSITY
OFFICE OF THE UNVERSITY REGISTRAR
Zamboanga City

UNIVERSITY STUDENT CLEARANCE

Date ___________
Please Check:

( ) Transcript of Records ( ) Certificate of Eligibility to Transfer

( ) Certification ( ) Authentication

______________________________
Date of Last Attendance / Graduation

PRINT NAME Year & Course / Main Campus / ESU

CHECKED BY:
1. ________________________________________ 4. ________________________________________
Coordinator of Student Affairs, College of ____ University Accountant

2. ________________________________________ 5. ________________________________________
Graduating Adviser University Science Center
(For Graduating Students Only)

3. ________________________________________ 6. ________________________________________
University Librarian Dean of Student’s Affairs

REMINDER: Request CERTIFICATION from the Dean that your BOUND BOOK for THESIS /
DISSERTATION is already submitted to the college concerned

52
 Republic of the Philippines
WESTERN MINDANAO STATE UNIVERSITY
OFFICE OF THE UNVERSITY REGISTRAR
Zamboanga City

APPLICATION FOR ENROLMENT WITHDRAWAL

Name: ____________________________________________________________ Course & Year: _________
(Surename) (First Name) (Middle Name) Semester / Summer: _____
School Year: ___________

This is to notify Western Mindanao State University that I am dropping my studies effective this ___
__________________________________, subject to the rules and registrations of the University.

REASONS:

________________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________________

APPROVED: _____________________________ _______________________________

Dean Student’s Signature

NOTED: _____________________________
Dean of Student Affairs

CLEARANCE FROM:
_____________________________
_______________________________
Accountant Librarian

VALIDATED:

___________________________
PILAR S. ENCARNADO, MPA
University Registrar

53
 Curricular Offerings

I. GRADUATE LEVEL 10. Master of Arts in Nursing (MAN)

Field of Specialization:
DEGREE: - Nursing Management
- Nursing Education
2. Doctor of Public Administration (DPA)
11. Master of Nursing (MN)
3. Doctor of Philosophy in Education - Medical-Surgical Nursing
Major: Language Teaching (Ed. D.) - Maternal and Child-Health Nursing
- Psychiatric-Mental Health Nursing
4. Doctor of Philosophy in Science Education - Community Health Nursing
Major: Biology
12. Master of Social Work (MSW)
5. Master of Public Administration (MPA) Fields of Specialization:
Fields of Specialization: - Social Administration
- Personnel Administration - Community Organization
- Organization and Management - Clinical Social Work Practice
- Fiscal Administration
- Program Development and Administration 13. Master of Science in Physical Education (MSPE)
Fields of Specialization:
6. Master in Local Government Administration - Dance
(MLGA) - Recreation
Fields of Specialization: - Sports
- Socio Economic Development Administration
- Political Development Administration 14. Master in Science in Structural Engineering

7. Master of Arts in Education (MA)

Majors: 15. Master of Science in Environmental Engineering
- Special Education Fields of Specialization:
- Educational Administration - Environmental Management and Technology (EMT)
- Educational Guidance -Water and Wastewater Engineering (WWE)
- Psychology
-Social Studies 16. Master of Engineering Education
- Language Teaching (English) Fields of Specialization:
- Language Teaching (Filipino) - Civil Engineering
- School Health Education - Electrical Engineering
- Home Economics - Mechanical Engineering
- Mathematics Education - Environmental Engineering
- Information and Communication Technology
8. Master of Arts in Science Education
17. Master of Science in Agronomy
9. Master of Science in Teaching
Major: 18. Master of Science in Criminal Justice (MSCRIM)
- Biology
- Chemistry 19. Master of Arts in English Language Studies
- Mathematics (MAELS)
- Physics
54
NON-DEGREE:
1. Professional Diploma in Education (P.D.)
Majors:
- Language Teaching (English)
- Educational Administration
2. Certificate in Government Management (CGM)
Fields of Specialization:
- Personnel Administration
- Program Development and Administration
II. UNDERGRADUATE LEVEL:
POST- BACCALAUREATE
1. Diploma Program in Physical Education
2. Professional Education Certificate (PEC)
3. Certificate in Kindergarten Education (CKE)
BACCALAUREATE:
1. Bachelor of Laws (LLB)
2. Bachelor of Science in Agriculture (BSA)
Majors:
- Crop Science
- Animal Science
3. Bachelor of Science in Agricultural Business (BSAB)
4. Bachelor of Science in Agricultural Technology
(BAT)
5. Bachelor of Science in Agricultural Engineering
(BSAE)
6. Bachelor of Science in Forestry (BSF)
Majors:
- Community Forestry
- Forest Resources Management
- Environmental Studies
7. Bachelor of Science in Nursing
8. Bachelor of Science in Nursing
(in consortium with Basilan State College; JH Cerilles
State College (Pagadian); Sulu State College)
9. Bachelor of Elementary Education
Majors:
- Pre-School Education
- Special Education
- General Education
- Special Program: Accelerated
Teaching Education Program (ATEP)- BEED major
in Islamic Studies & Arabic Values
10. Bachelor of Secondary Education (BSED)
Majors:
- English
- Mathematics
- Values Education
- Music, Arts and Physical
Education
- Physical Science
- Biological Studies
11. Bachelor of Science in Home Economics (BSHE)
12. Bachelor of Science in Home Economics Education
(BSHEED)
13. Bachelor of Science in Nutrition and Dietetics
(BSND)
14. Bachelor of Science in Food Technology (BSFT)
15. Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering (BSCE)
16. Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering
(BSME)
17. Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering
(BSEE)
18. Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering
(BSCoE)
19. Bachelor of Science in Computer Science (BSCS)
Majors:
- Informatics Technology
- Software Technology
20. Bachelor of Science in Geodetic Engineering
(BSGE)
21. Bachelor of Science in Industrial and Management
Engineering (BSIME)
22. Bachelor of Science in Environmental Engineering
(BSEnE)
23. Bachelor of Science in Sanitary Engineering
(BSSE)
24.Bachelor of Science in Electronics and
Communications Engineering (BSECE)
25. Bachelor of Science in Architecture (BSArch)
26. Bachelor of Science in Social Work (BSSW)
27. Bachelor of Science in Community Development
(BSCD)
28. Bachelor of Science in Biology (BSBio)
55
 29. Bachelor of Science in Chemistry (BSChem) Majors:
30. Bachelor of Science in Mathematics (BSMath) - General Education
31. Bachelor of Science in Physics (BSPhysics) - Special Education
32. Bachelor of Science in Statistics (BSStat) - Early Childhood Education (Pre-School)
33. Special Degree Program for Foreign Students: 6. Bachelor of Secondary Education
(a 3-year and 1 summer course) Majors:
Majors: - English
- Bachelor of Science in Computer Science - Mathematics
- Bachelor of Arts in Economics/Business - Music, Arts, and Physical Education
- Biological Science
34. Bachelor of Arts in Asian and Islamic Studies - Social Studies
Major: Southeast Asian Studies - Filipino
35. Bachelor of Arts (AB) 7. Bachelor of Science in Criminology
Majors: 8. Bachelor of Agricultural Technology
- English 9. Bachelor of Science in Social Work
- Political Science 10. Bachelor of Science in Computer Science
- Mass Communication- Journalism 11. Bachelor of Arts major in Political Science
- Mass Communication- Broadcasting 12. Diploma in Agricultural Technology
- Social Studies 13. Associate in Computer Science
- History
36. Bachelor of Science in Economics (BSEco) DEPARTMENT OF EXTENSION SERVICES AND
37. Bachelor of Science in Psychology (BSPsych) COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
38. Bachelor of Science in Islamic Studies (BSIS)
39. Bachelor of in Criminology (BSCrim) A. IN-CAMPUS
Majors: Police Administration 1. Baking
40. Bachelor of Physical Education (BPE) 2. Basic Automotive Mechanics
41. Bachelor of Science in Hotel and Restaurant 3. Basic Computer Repair
Management (BSHRM) 4. Basic Electronics
42. Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science 5. Beauty Care
43. Bachelor of Science in Agroforestry 6. Cellphone Repair
44. Bachelor of Science in Accountancy 7. Cooking/Food Processing
8. Cosmetology
PRE-BACCALAUREATE: 9. Garment Technology
1. Diploma in Agricultural Technology (DAT) 10. Hair Cutting/Styling
2. General Engineering (2 years) 11.Needle Craft
3. Diploma in Food Processing 12. Master Cutting
4. Special Tertiary Education Program (STEP) for 13. Novelty
Exceptionally Abled Students and Youths (EASY) 14. Plumbing
5. Diploma in Sports Coaching (DISC) 15. Practical Electrical/Motor Rewinding
6. Diploma in Arabic Language (DAL) 16. Ref. and Aircon Repair
7. Certificate in Drafting Technology and Utilities 17. Welding/Fabrication
8. Certificate in Computer Aided Drafting Design 18. Handicraft
(CADD)
B. OFF-CAMPUS
EXTERNAL STUDIES UNITS-ESU 1. Baking
1. Master of Arts in Education 2. Basic Automotive Mechanics
2. Master of Public Administration 3. Basic Computer Repair
3. Professional Education Certificate 4. Basic Electronics
4. General Education Curriculum 5. Cellphone Repair
5. Bachelor of Elementary Education 6. Cooking / Food Processing
56
7. Cosmetology
8. Beauty Care
9. Garment Technology
10. Handicraft
11. Instrumental Music
12. Novelty
13. Plumbing
14. Graphic Arts
15. Hair Cutting / Styling
16. Needle Craft
17. Practical Electricity / Motor Rewinding
18. Welding / Fabrication
19. Ref. and Aircon Repair

III. INTEGRATED LABORATORY SCHOOL

ELEMENTARY LEVEL
1. Grade I-VI
2. Elementary Level Corporate
3. Special Education

HIGH SCHOOL LEVEL

1. Grade VII-Grade X Regular
2. Grade VII-Grade X Corporate

SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL LEVEL

1. Grade XI
2. Grade XII

57
 CHED Memorandum Order No. 17
Republic of the Philippines
OFFICE OF THE PRESIDENT
COMMISSION ON HIGHER EDUCATION

CHED Memorandum Order

No. 17
Series of 2012

SUBJECT: POLICIES AND GUIDELINES ON EDUCATIONAL TOURS AND FIELD TRIPS OF

COLLEGE AND GRADUATE STUDENTS

In accordance with the pertinent provisions of Batas Pambansa Blg. 232, Republic Act (R.A.) 7722
otherwise known as the Higher Education Act of 1994, provision in the Constitution which states that “The
State shall exercise reasonable supervision over all higher education institutions”, and pursuant to Commission en
Banc Resolution No. 122-2012 dated June 11, 2012, the following the policies and guidelines and procedures are
hereby adopted:
ARTICLE I
STATEMENT OF POLICIES

Section 1. It is the policy of the state to create and sustain a complete, adequate and integrated system
of education relevant to the needs of the people and society. In line with this, the higher education’s contribution
to boost tourism and generate more employment is recognized towards the attainment of the goals of human
development.

Section 2. It is also the policy of the state to continuously promote the law to restrain certain acts of
public officers and private persons alike which constitute graft or corrupt practices or which may lead thereto.

Section 3. These policies and guidelines shall cover the educational tours and/or field trips in the Philippines
duly required in the approved curriculum of authorized higher education programs of both public and private
HEIs. These shall apply to all higher education students and the faculty duly authorized by the concerned HEI
to handle educational tours and/or field trips. Other trips to be conducted after the student has graduated are
not covered by these policies and guidelines.

Section 4. For purposes of this CMO, the terms below are defined as follows:

Educational Tour – an extended educational activity involving the travel of students and
supervising faculty outside the school campus which is relatively of longer duration usually lasting
for more than one day and relatively more places of destination than a field trip;

Field Trip – an educational activity involving the travel of students and supervising
faculty outside the school campus but is of relatively shorter duration usually lasting
for only one day and with fewer places of destination.

ARTICLE III
OBJECTIVES

Section 5. These set of policies and guidelines aims to rationalize the Conduct of Educational Tours
and/or Field Trips among Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) in order to:

58
 5.1 provide access to efficient and interactive learning of students through meaningful educational
tours and/or field trips as required in their program requirement embodied in the approved curriculum; and

5.2 ensure that all Higher Education Institutions provide quality educational tours and/or field trips
relevant to the acquisition of the necessary knowledge, skills, and values for student welfare and development.

ARTICLE IV
ACADEME-INDUSTRY LINKAGE

Section 6. Educational Tours and Field Trips in general are part of the curriculum enhancement,
hence, broadens the students’ learning opportunities and a feel of the real world, and therefore serves as a
powerful motivator to strengthen the academe-industry linkage. HEIs should come up with their creative
academe-industry linkage plans appropriate to degree program requirement.

ARTICLE V
STUDENTS

Section 7. Higher education students are considered as young adults, thus they shall assess their
capability to undertake such educational tours and/or field trips. HEIs shall require the concerned students
to submit a medical clearance before allowing them to join the given educational tours and/or field trips. The
medical clearance must be issued by the concerned HEIs as part of their free services to the students.

Section 8. For students who cannot join the educational tours and/or field trips, they shall be given
parallel school activity which provides similar acquisition of knowledge of the required practical competencies
and achieves other learning objectives. Learners with special needs such as Persons with Disabilities (PWDs)
shall be given due consideration.

Section 9. For students undergoing internship, practicum or on-the-job training program, the same
shall be governed by CHED Memorandum Order No. 23 s. 2009 “Guidelines for Student Internship Program
in the Philippines (SIPP) for all programs with practicum subject. Educational tours and field trips shall not be
made as substitute of a major examination for the purpose of compelling students to participate in educational
activities not otherwise compulsory.

ARTICLE VI
DESTINATION

Section 10. As much as practicable, destination of educational tours and/or field trips should be near
the concerned HEI in order to minimize cost. Be guided by CMO 11, s. 1997 for the places where they should
visit among others, the registered museums, cultural sites and landmarks which should be in line with the
objectives of the educational tours and/or field trips.

Section 11. When the educational tours and/or field trips require additional cost on the part of
students, prior consultation with concerned students shall be undertaken as much as possible. Hence, all this
information shall form part of the student handbook so that the same shall be explained during the General
Orientation of Freshmen before the start of classes, including the details of the educational tours and/or field
trips.

Section 12. Whenever necessary for the safety and convenience of the touring party, advance and
proper coordination with the local government units with appropriate clearance from the concerned government
and non-government offices shall be secured before the scheduled dates of the educational tours and/or field
59
 trips.

ARTICLE VII
ROLES OF THE HIGHER EDUCATION INSTITUTIONS

Section 13. HEI shall implement the appropriate educational tours and/or field trips in accordance
with the specific degree program requirement.

Section 14. Briefing and debriefing program shall be undertaken by the concerned HEI before and/
or after the educational tours and field trips. Briefing shall include among others, precautionary measures that
will be undertaken by the concerned HEI with the concerned students and parents/guardians if the student is
a minor. Also, Risk Assessment Procedures for educational tours and/or field trips must also be discussed with
concerned students including parents and/or guardians. As a general requirement, the HEIs following their
institutional policy should require the students to submit the parents’ and/or guardians’ consent. Debriefing
program should include among others, reflection of the learning experiences duly documented in the learning
journal.

Section 15. As part of the Curriculum/course, a Proto-type Observation Guide during the educational
tours and/or field trips must be required and to be accomplished, giving emphasis on the relevant competencies
and lessons learned from the stated trips. An assessment of learning outcomes must also be accomplished
following the institutional policy on grading system.

Section 16. HEIs shall inform the CHEDROs on the nature of the educational tours and/or field
trips to include purpose, schedule, destinations, cost and submit a report on the matter to the CHED Regional
Offices concerned at least one month before the opening of classes for every academic year. HEI’s report should
include among others the filled in undertaking form that the field trip is not conducted to unduly benefit
or accommodate any of the establishments enumerated in the list owned by an HEI or employee or by an
owner who is a relative within the third civil degree of consanguinity or affinity to an HEI owner or employee
having any involvement in the conduct of educational tours and/or field trips. In turn, all CHEDROs are hereby
directed to consolidate these reports of the HEIs within their respective jurisdictions and submit the same to
the Executive Office (Attention: The Director, Office of Student Services).

Section 17. In the event that tour guides will be utilized, only accredited Tour Operators and Tour
Guides from the Department of Tourism shall be engaged by the HEIs. To ensure quality and professional
conduct of tours, only travel and tour operators and tour guides accredited by the Department of Tourism
should be engaged by the HEIs (a list of DOT-accredited tourism enterprises can be obtained from the DOT
Main & Regional Offices).

Section 18. Security of the students should be the foremost responsibility of the higher education
institutions concerned. HEI authorities shall inform parents or guardians on the HEI guidelines on the conduct
of educational tours and/or field trips.

Section 19. HEI guidelines for educational tours and/or field trips or on-the-job training shall
be written in their students’ handbook, and copies of the same shall be given to students and displayed in
conspicuous places for their students’ guidance and reference.

Section 20. It shall be unlawful for an HEI employee to personally profit from an educational tours
and/or field trips. HEI employee who violates this section may be terminated for Grave Misconduct.
Section 21. If any of the service companies mentioned in the preceding sections is established as a
laboratory or practicum training outfit, the provision of the immediately preceding sections shall not apply.
60
 ARTICLE VIII
FUNDING

Section 22. Prior consultation including the manner, time and duration of the educational tours
and/or field trips shall be done by the concerned HEIs with the concerned students and stakeholders. If the
educational tours and/or field trip is included in the internship, this shall be fully explained to the concerned
students. Enclosed is Annex A for the checklist of requirements.

ARTICLE IX
SANCTIONS

Section 23. In order to ensure compliance with the guidelines and regulations stated in this CMO,
the Commission en Banc may, upon the recommendation of the Regional Offices and CHED Legal Services,
impose the following sanctions depending on the nature and seriousness of the violation or non-compliance of
Higher Education Institutions.
Any HEI found guilty of violating any of the provisions contained in these guidelines may be subjected
to the following sanctions:
1st Offense, a written warning;
2nd Offense, suspension from conducting educational tours and field trips for a period of time as
determined by the Commission en Banc, and
3rd Offense,
• disapprove the application for other school fees increase and introduction of new fees at
HEI;
• administrative and criminal charges against it and/or its responsible officers under
existing laws
• imposition of penalties such as revocation of permits, downgrading of status, phase-out
and such other penalties may be validly imposed by the Commission to the concerned
HEIs.
ARTICLE X
REPEALING CAUSE

Section 24. CHED Memorandum Order No. 11 s. 1997 “Enjoining all HEIs in the Country to Make
insofar as practicable, All Registered Museums and Cultural Sites and Landmarks as Venues for Educational
Tours and Field Trips and subjects for Studies and Researches is hereby amended. All previous issuances
inconsistent with these guidelines are deemed repealed, revoked or rescinded accordingly.

ARTICLE XI
EFFECTIVITY

Section 25. These guidelines shall take effect 15 days after publication in newspaper of general
circulation and should be observed by all HEIs starting AY 2012-2013 and shall remain in force and effect until
revoked or amended.

Issued this 6th day of July 2012 in Quezon City.

PATRICIA B. LICUANAN, Ph.D.
Chairperson

61
 Checklist of Documents
For CMO No. 17 Policies and Guidelines on Educational Tours and Field Trips of College Students

Compiled
Remarks
Yes No
Included in the curriculum with
A. Before the Educational Visit or corresponding unit credits and
Field Trip time allotment whether lecture or
laboratory hours
1. Included in the curriculum
specify course title and unit credits

Updated Guidelines of concerned HEI

included in the student’s handbook,
2. Guidelines of concerned displayed in conspicuous places, and
HEI included in the student’s included in the General Orientation of
handbook, displayed in conspicuous Freshmen
places, and included in the General
Orientation of Freshmen Outline of Assessment Report to be
filled in by the concerned faculty and
students.
Faculty-in-charge

a. Present designation

3. Faculty-in-charge
b. With letter of notification from the
Administration indicating Faculty-in-
charge role and responsibilities before,
during and after the educational tours
and field trips.

Advanced and properly coordinated

4. Advanced and properly with the Local Government and other
coordinated with the Local concerned non-government offices
Government and other concerned with letter request by the sending
non-government offices HEI and acknowledged/approved by
LGUs/NGOs

62
 Compiled
Remarks
Yes No
Consultation conducted to concerned
5. Consultation conducted to
students, faculty and stakeholders
concerned students, faculty and
with attached minutes of consultation
stakeholders
and attendee’s signature
Destination chosen considering cost
6. Destination chosen considering
and benefit requirements, safety, and
cost and benefit requirements
relevance with the subject matter
Briefing to concerned faculty and
7. Fund and other resources
students and provide the needed info
properly secured
materials

Written plans by the accredited travel

agency (if appropriate) with attached
Gant Chart duly-approved by the HEI
9. Written plans submitted to HEIs
Copy of the itinerary and Travel
Agency’s or Tour Operator’s
Accreditation Certification issued by
DOT

Individual or group insurance for

10. Insurance for students, faculty,
students, faculty, and other concerned
and other concerned stakeholders
stakeholders

11. Format of Learning journals Standard format of Learning journals

given to students given to students

Announcement to students, faculty

12. Announcement to students, and parents made one (1) to two (2)
faculty and parents months before the scheduled date of
educational tour/field trip

Risk Assessment plans and preventive

13. Risk Assessment plans in place measures given to students and
stakeholders

63

14. Medical clearance of students
15. Schedule of fees (including its Written schedule of fees disseminated
details)
16. Parent/guardian consent duly-
notarized be required before the
educational tour or field trip
Compiled
Remarks
Yes No
Medical clearance of students and
medical aid kits are provided
Medical clearance duly signed by the
Parent or Physician and Waiver
to concerned stakeholders
Duly notarized consent submitted
before the activity

B. During the Educational Visit or Field Trip

Concerned parents or guardians

were properly informed of the
1. Security of the students
HEI guidelines on the conduct of
educational tours and/or field trips
Program of activities followed as
2. Proper implementation of
planned or activities adjusted as the
educational visit or field trip
need arises
3. Properly coordinated with
Letter of MOA stating the coordination
concerned LGU and/or government
with concerned LGUs or NGOs
or non-government office
C. After the Educational Visit or Field Trip
1. Conducted Debriefing program
including among others reflection Documentation of Debriefing
of the learning experiences duly Program
documented in the learning journal
Assessment report by faculty and
2. Assessment report by faculty submitted including the details of
and submitted including details of amount expended to be submitted to
amount expended CHED.
Filled in undertaking form.
3. Assessment report by students Assessment report by students
and students concerned submitted to concerned HEI

Prepared by: Certified Correct:

_________________________ _________________________

64
 CHED Memorandum Order No. 23
Republic of the Philippines
OFFICE OF THE PRESIDENT
COMMISSION ON HIGHER EDUCATION

CHED MEMORANDUM ORDER (CMO)

No. 23
Series of 2009

SUBJECT: GUIDELINES FOR STUDENT INTERNSHIP PROGRAM IN THE PHILIPPINES (SIPP) FOR
ALL PROGRAMS WITH PRACTICUM SUBJECT

In accordance with the pertinent provisions of RA 7722, otherwise known as the “Higher Education Act of 1994”,
and the pursuant to Commission en banc Resolution No. 148, dated April 19, 2009, the following guidelines for
Student Internship Program in the Philippines for all programs with practicum subject are hereby adopted for
the information, guidance and compliance of all concerned.

Article I
GUIDANCE PRINCIPLES

Section 1. The Commission on Higher Education is mandated to develop and promote policies, systems,
procedure and programs that address globalization, changing policies, liberalization of trade goods and services.
CHED shall require student exchange and establishment by HEIs of string academic linkages with business and
industry to promote and provide students with competitive skills and attitudes for employment.

Section 2. In order to promote the well-being of tertiary students, guarantee quality of their learning and
exposure and ensure their safety while undergoing practicum and considering the nature of the Program,
CHED issues these Guidelines for Student Internship Program in the Philippines.

Article II
OBJECTIVES

Section 3. General Objectives

The Program aims to:

• Provide tertiary students enrolled in Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) in the Philippines the
opportunity to acquire practical knowledge, skills, and desirable attitudes and values in reputable
establishments/industries in our country;
• Enhance the student’s work competencies, and discipline as they relate to people in the workplace;
• Promote competitiveness of students through their training;
• Strengthen and enrich the degree programs in HEIs
• Provide opportunities to learn from and network with experienced professionals;
• Handle new challenges and complex tasks or problems; and
• Identify future career directions and become candidates for future job opening

65
 Article III
SCOPE AND COVERAGE

Section 4. This program shall be applicable to all qualified tertiary students who have enrolled in recognized
higher education programs.

Article IV
IMPLEMENTING GUIDELINES

Section 5. Requirements for Parties Involved

Higher Education Institution (HEI)

• The HEI must have Government Recognition for Private HEIs, appropriate Board Resolution for State
Universities and Colleges (SUCs) and Local Government Ordinance for Local Universities and Colleges (LUCs)
for program(s) with practicum or internship units;
• The HEI must have no pending compliant or administrative/criminal/civil action file against it either before
CHED, other government agencies/entities or in any court of competent jurisdiction;
• The HEI must have reputable Host Training Establishment (HTE) Partner or Entity;
• The HEI must have a Manual or Plan designed in collaboration with the HTE and;
• HEI must furnish the HTE evaluation system to be followed in the evaluation of student performance.

Host Training Establishment (HTE)

• HTE must be duly licensed and registered institutions/establishments in the Philippines. They must provide
appropriate training program for the student trainee and must follow the Training Manual or Plan; and
• HTE must follow the evaluation system of student performance provided by HEI.

Student Trainee/Intern
•Student trainee/intern possess the following minimum qualifications:
1. Must be enrolled in a Philippine higher education institution;
2. At least 18 years old;
3. Enrolled in practicum or equivalent subject, at least 3rd year (2nd semester) or 4th curricular year;
4. Passed pre-practicum requirements;
5. In good academic standing and completed all pre-requisite subjects;
6. The trainee shall be physically, mentally, and emotionally fit, as contained in the physical and
psychological examination certified by DOH accredited clinics and hospitals;
7. Articulate in the language used by the HTE;
8. Has consent from parents/guardians; and
9. Has finished at least 90% of his/her academic requirements or has passed and taken all his/her
major (professional) subjects.
• Transferees and/or students who have graduated or completed another degree program and are enrolled in a
second program must complete at least two semesters with 12 units of professional subjects per semester in the
accepting HEI before undergoing internship.

Section 6. Obligations/Responsibilities of Parties Involved

Higher Education Institution (HEI)

• Formulate local school practicum policies and guidelines on selection, placement, monitoring and assessment
of student trainees;
• Pre-qualify student trainees/interns in accordance with the school off campus training policies and
66
requirements as specified herein and from the receiving host training establishment;
• Set criteria on the selection of a faculty Practicum academically qualified and responsible as Faculty SIPP
Coordinator per program for all aspects of the student internship programs including program implementation,
monitoring and evaluation;
• Select Host Training Establishment (HTE) and ensure acceptability of training manual or plan and practicum
venue in order to protect student interest;
• Execute MOA with HTE duly notarized;
• Develop, in collaboration with the duly selected HTE a Training Manual or Plan for the student trainee/ intern
specifying goals and objectives (desired outcomes and how these outcomes will be achieved), knowledge, skills,
attitudes and competencies that the student trainee should acquire in each learning area, assignments, and
schedule of activities, among others. The training manual or plan shall be part of the Training Contract signed
by the student trainee, HTE and HEI;
• Monitor and evaluate performance of the student trainees jointly with the HTE based on the prescribed
Training Manual or Plan;
• Monitor the student trainee and attend to his/her needs and concerns by coordinating with HTE, CHED, and
other concerned government authorities if necessary;
• Conduct general orientation for qualified student trainees and their parents/guardians;
• Conduct initial and regular visit/inspection of their HTE organization to ensure safety of students;
• Submit to CHED through the CHEDRO the following basic documents;

1. Annual report per school year on implementation of SIPP on the number of student trainees per program,
their issues and concerns and actions to be taken to address the issues among others to be signed by School Head
or authorized representative such as Deans of concerned Program and Registrar;
2. List of students certified to have completed internship with supporting documents; and
3. SIPP evaluation form as part of the documentation.

• HEI should see to it that any student trainee/intern found guilty of violating any of the provisions contained in
these guidelines be subjected to the institutional disciplinary policies;
• Issue a final grade to the student trainee upon completion of requirements on prescribed period;
• Issue a Certificate of Appreciation of the completion of training of student to HTE; and
• Provides CHEDRO a copy of the duly notarized MOA.

Host Training Establishment (HTE)

• Facilitate the processing of the documents of the student trainee/intern in coordination with the higher
education institutions;
• Provides Supervised Applied Learning Experience for student trainees in accordance with agreed Training
Manual/Plan and schedule of activities;
• Assigns a competent Faculty SIPP Coordinator responsible for the implementation of all phases of the Training
Plan;
• Conduct a post training review and evaluation of the program and the performance as well as with the partner
HEI;
• Issue Certificate of Completion of the student trainees two weeks after the completion of training; and
• May provide necessary incentives to the student trainee as contained in the MOA, such as free duty meals,
travel allowance and uniform if possible.

Student Trainees/Interns

• Sign and comply with the provisions of the contract, at all times with the rules and regulations of the HTE,
CHED and the HEI;
67
 •Complete the agreed duration of his/her internship;
•Undergoes the required orientation/training program conducted by the HEI and HTE;
•Submit a monthly journal of practicum experiences describing his/her training activities, problem/s
encountered, and reflections on the training experience to the Faculty SIPP Coordinator; and
•Sign the acceptance letter and/or training contract.

Parent/guardian or spouse

•Co-signs the Training Contract to manifest approval or consent to the training of their child/spouse; and
•Issue waiver duly signed by parents and guardians.

Commission on Higher Education (CHED)

Office of Student Services (OSS)

• Prepares the monitoring instrument and orients CHEDROs; and

• Consolidates reports for policy formulation and decision making.

CHED Legal Services

• Ensure the safety and well-being of student trainees by monitoring compliance of HEIs with the provisions of
these guidelines through the reports of HEIs, on site visits and other appropriate mechanism as CHED institutes;
• Establish and maintain linkages with government and non-government agencies, organizations and/or
industries and enter into agreements with them specifying their roles or obligations in the implementation of
SIPP;
• Conduct monitoring and evaluation on the implementation of SIPP;
• Submit annual report on the status of implementation to OSS;
• Provide feedback mechanism to HEIs and HTEs;
• Ensure that all HEIs and their duly designated HTE must comply with the provisions of these guidelines for
the welfare and protection and training of students; and
• Submit to Central Office CHED Legal Services through the OSS any alleged violations committed either by
the HEI or HTE.

Section 7. Monitoring and Evaluation

The monitoring and evaluation of the performance of the student trainees shall be done by both the HEI and the
HTE. The Faculty SIPP Coordinator and or Dean of the HEI should use standard procedures, instruments and
methodologies such as observations, monthly reports, and interviews or conferences to the students.

• At the end of the training period, the HTE evaluation report will be the basis of the student’s final grade;

1. Certificate of Completion;
2. Duly accomplished evaluation sheet; and
3. Other pertinent reports, information, and/or documents which may be included for purposes of
describing students performances.

• The Faculty SIPP Coordinator’s report including the HTE evaluation report will be the basis of the student’s
final grade.
• A student whose contract was terminated due to resignation or other causes shall be given a final grade on the
basis of school’s grading system after considering the circumstances surrounding such termination.
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•Concerned HEI shall strictly monitor compliance of these guidelines.

Section 8. Duration of the Internship Training.

The internship program shall be in accordance with the approved curriculum.

Section 9. Fee

The HEIs shall follow the approved students’ practicum fee. In no case shall the school charge the student fees
other than the approved/prescribed fee or other school fees not duly noted by CHED.

Section 10. Offenses

Violations by the Higher Education Institution (HEI)

Any HEI that shall be found to have committed the following violations shall be meted with the appropriate
sanctions provided in Section 11;

• Sending students for internship without the required government recognition or Board Resolution for said
program;
• Partnering with entities that have no established reputation;
• Failing to monitor welfare of student trainees/interns and thus exposing them to situations that may be deemed
as exploitation of the students;
• Allowing student trainees/interns to undertake SIPP without signed MOA with Training Partner (That the
MOA between HEI and HTE be optional on a case-to-case basis depending on the volume of interns deployed
to the latter);
• Making false statements/misstatement of student records/documents to make it appear that the student is
qualified to undertake SIPP;
• Failing to submit required reports to CHED as specified under these guidelines particularly on results of pre
and post monitoring and evaluation of student trainees and action taken on their grievances and complaints,
if any;
• Demanding from student trainees training fees or other charges, NOT APPROVED BY CHED in addition to
the fees already paid by the student during enrollment in order to participate in the SIPP; and
• Such other acts similar or analogous to the foregoing that is in violation of the provisions herein.

Violations by Host Training Establishment (HTE)

Any HTE that shall be found to have committed the following violations of these guidelines shall be meted with
the appropriate sanctions stated in Sec. 11:

• Changing provisions of signed Training Contract without the consent of the student trainee and HEI;
• Non-compliance with prescribed Training Manual or Plan;
• Placing student trainees in unsuitable training venues;
• Withholding practicum reports of student trainees; and
• Such other acts similar or analogous to the foregoing that is in violation of the provisions herein.

Section 11. Sanctions

In order to ensure compliance with the guidelines and regulations stated in this CMO, the Commission en Banc
may, upon the recommendation of the CHED Legal Services, impose the following sanctions depending on the
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 nature and seriousness of the violation or non-compliance of Higher Education Institution and Host Training
Establishment for any of the violations stated in Section 10.

Any HEI found guilty of violating any of the provisions contained in these guidelines may be subjected to
following sanctions:

• 1st Offense, a written warning;

• 2nd Offense, a suspension for a period of time determined by the Commission en Banc; and
• 3rd Offense, revocation of downgrading of the Recognition status of the program.

The HEI may be required to submit a corrective plan of action designed to address the violations committed by
the HEI.

Section 12. Investigation of Complaints

• Upon receipt by CHED-OSS of complaints or reports on alleged student exploitation or abovementioned

violations, the same shall be immediately referred to the CHED Legal Service for appropriate action, following
prescribed procedures instituted by the same.
• HEI while under investigation for alleged violations of these guidelines may be suspended from accepting
incoming freshmen in that particular program by the CHED Chairman.

Article V
EFFECTIVITY

Section 13. These guidelines shall apply immediately to Entities/Parties presently implementing practicum/
internship program in the Philippines and shall take effect 15 days from publication in a newspaper of general
circulation or in the Official Gazette.

Issued this July 20, 2009, Pasig City, Philippines.

EMMANUEL Y. ANGELES
Chairman

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 Songs and Hymns
ZAMBOANGA HERMOSA
Composed by Vicente Orendain
Zamboanga Hermosa, preciosa perlita
Orgullo de Mindanao
Tus bellas dalagas son las que hermosea
Tu deliciosa ciudad.
Flores y amores que adornan tu jardin
Eres la imagen del Bello eden;
Zamboanga Hermosa, preciosa perlita
Orgullo de Mindanao.
WESTERN MINDANAO STATE UNIVERSITY
GRADUATION SONG
Composed by Norma Camins Conti
Today the hands of time paint glory
As gladness fills our graduation day
Dear Western Mindanao State University
We thank you and keep you in our hearts to stay
A Center of Excellence, your cherished halls.
The voice of Wisdom that nurtured us all.
Our lives, now richer and fuller
Your children so grateful we are
Let’s lift our voices in joy and praise
To our Alma Mater, the prized WMSU name
Ever trusting in God’s loving grace
We’ll make a difference for her honor and fame.
(Sing from 1st stanza)
Coda: We thank you and keep you in our hearts to
stay!
WMSU HYMN
Composed by Angelina O. Aquino
Western Mindanao State University
Beautiful emblem of the southern seas
Meant to mould the youth for human dignity
The pillar of peace and unity
Firm she stands and stalwart she looks
With its crimson and white in the sil’vry light
As she glides to guide the beaming faces upright
She whispers the tune of the Old Normal School
Hail, Oh Alma Mater dear!
The beacon light of a million fold
Praise be to them that nurtured thee,
Who fought and died let there laurels be
Shout aloud in triumph, we
For God has granted His decree
Born the State University
Long envisioned for eternity
(Repeat 1st and 2nd stanza)
71
 Western Mindanao State
University as the Regional
winner in the 2015 Search for
Sustainable & Eco-Friendly
School
STUDENT
H A N D B O O K