• THERESA MAE DULMAN
The Bacolod City College (BCC) Board of Trustees has started the screening process to select a new college president as its current head, Dr. Ma. Johanna Ann Bayoneta, is set to retire next year.
Sangguniang Panlungsod Committee on Laws and Ordinances chairperson, Councilor Al Victor Espino, said the early screening began under the previous administration and remains ongoing to ensure a smooth transition.
Espino explained that the selection requires a lengthier evaluation process, as applicants must meet the qualifications set in the city ordinance establishing the college and the standards mandated by the Commission on Higher Education.
He said that basic requirements include proven leadership experience, a strong academic background, and residency in Bacolod.
The school has posted that the deadline for application will be on Oct. 12.
“Throughout Dr. Bayoneta’s long service at Bacolod City College, it has attained and grown so much, and we expect it to grow further,” Espino said.
“That is why we are giving careful focus to selecting a new leader, who has the capacity and fully meets the requirements set by our city ordinance and the provisions of the Commission on Higher Education,” he added.
During her tenure, Bayoneta led several institutional developments, including securing a Level I accreditation from the Association of Local Colleges and Universities Commission on Accreditation.
The councilor said the accreditation serves as a key prerequisite in the college’s ongoing effort to achieve a full state university status.
Espino assured Bacolodnons that the Board already has a list of candidates and will evaluate their records. | TMD
