𝐉𝐇𝐂𝐒𝐂 𝐓𝐖𝐆 𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐯𝐞𝐧𝐞𝐬 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐂𝐥𝐮𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐫 𝟏 𝐌𝐚𝐧𝐮𝐚𝐥 𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰

The JHCSC Technical Working Group (TWG) for Manual Review convened for a Cluster 1 manuals review meeting on February 20, 2026, at the JHCSC Hostel of the Pagadian City Extension Campus. The session was led by College Legal Officer Atty. Esther Marie S. Ringon and TWG Secretariat Prof. Marjo S. Malabanan. The meeting aimed to harmonize institutional manuals to serve as guiding frameworks for decision-making, conflict resolution, and overall governance of the College.

The activity gathered Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Vilma C. Grengia, deans, heads of offices, and staff. Discussions focused on key institutional documents, including the Organizational Structure, Faculty Manual, Learning and Development (L&D) Manual, PRAISE Manual, Learning Continuity Plan (LCP), and Student Manual. Participants emphasized the need to ensure policy coherence and alignment with Civil Service rules and PRIME-HRM standards.

During the session, HRMO Director Mr. Kim Borja presented the proposed ZDSSU Organizational Structure, highlighting the integration of the newly created Office of the Vice President for Student Affairs and Services and the newly constituted research areas under the Office of the Vice President for Research, Innovation, Development, and Extension (VPRIDE). Prof. Malabanan outlined the composition of the TWG and presented the timeline for the review process. Atty. Ringon underscored the importance of conducting thorough legal reviews to ensure that provisions comply with existing laws and regulations, are enforceable, and are consistent with institutional policies.

An interactive workshop was facilitated by Curriculum and Instructor Director Ms. Febe Keith Jumoc, during which proponents rotated among tables to gather observations and recommendations on the draft manuals and the proposed organizational structure. The activity encouraged collaborative evaluation and constructive feedback. The body agreed to open the floor for comprehensive discussion to ensure that all provisions are carefully examined, clarified, and aligned with the institution’s vision, mission, and regulatory requirements.

In his message, College President Dr. Edgardo H. Rosales emphasized that the review of manuals is a crucial preparatory step toward universityhood. He stressed that the policies must be grounded in existing laws and aligned with institutional best practices. He further reminded the body to ensure that all manuals are policy-based and supported by a strong legal foundation to guarantee effective implementation.

The review process aims to safeguard the rights of students, faculty, and staff while minimizing potential legal risks to the institution. By clearly defining roles, responsibilities, and procedures, the initiative seeks to standardize policy implementation and prevent disputes. Ultimately, the activity serves as a proactive measure to ensure that all manuals are legally sound and structured adequately before dissemination.