Cyclical Metamorphosis: The Accreditation Experience of Middle Managers in Local Colleges in CALABARZON, Philippines

This phenomenological study, which followed Moustakas's qualitative framework, determined the lived experiences of selected middle managers in the accreditation process of local colleges in CALABARZON. Six prevailing themes showed the participants’ experience in accreditation. Theme 1 covered the meeting and sustaining standards wherein the participants deemed the importance of orientation on the nature of accreditation. Theme 2 underscored quality and excellence wherein they acknowledged the prestige of recognition once they get the accreditation status sought, which should reaffirm their commitment to the mission-vision-goal statement of their institution. Theme 3 accentuated their experience in the search for innovation, theme 4 focused on hitting the deadline and quality metrics and the challenges of coordination and teamwork. Theme 5 tackled issues on hitting standards which cover financial constraints, facilities and logistics issues, and attracting educators to stay in local colleges. Finally, Theme 6 presented that accreditation is a stress-related endeavor. Still, the participants agreed that institutions of higher learning should be ready for stressors as they are part of achieving recognition and prestige.