TARLAC CITY, Tarlac (January 16, 2026) — The Tarlac State University (TSU) Board of Regents (BOR) has officially announced the opening of the search for a new university president, signaling the likely end of Arnold Velasco’s tenure.
According to a source close to the Board of Regents, the decision to open the search follows a formal performance evaluation during which Velasco reportedly received a “poor” rating. The result of the evaluation has not yet been made public.
Velasco’s term will end on March 31, 2026.
Sitting presidents of State Universities and Colleges (SUCs) are typically eligible to apply for a second four-year term. Sources within the university suggest that Velasco will not be considered for reappointment.
Another source said that she is not surprised by the reported evaluation result on Velasco.
“His choice of Vice President for Administration in his first year in office reflects his poor judgment. His choice was not even qualified to hold the position,” the source said.
Velasco, who was elected in 2022, has seen his leadership questioned early in his term. Reports indicate that calls for his removal began circulating among high-ranking TSU officials just one year into his presidency. Critics have characterized his leadership as indecisive, alleging that his policy decisions were often made to appease specific individuals rather than prioritizing the long-term interests of the university.
His administration has been shadowed by unconfirmed reports of financial mismanagement, which have contributed to the growing friction between the Office of the President and the university’s stakeholders.
The Board of Regents, chaired by CHED Commissioner Shirley Agrupis, has outlined strict minimum qualifications for the next leader of the province’s premier state institution. Applicants must be Filipino citizens, at least 35 years old, holders of an earned doctorate degree, and possess at least five years of high-level management experience.
Required documentation for aspirants includes a proposed vision and mission for TSU, along with rigorous clearances from the Sandiganbayan, Ombudsman, and Civil Service Commission to ensure the candidates have no pending administrative or criminal records.
Interested and qualified applicants are directed to submit their formal application letters to Agrupis at CHED. Further details regarding the deadline for submission are expected to be posted on the university’s official website and social media channels.
Dr. Velasco has yet to issue an official statement regarding the Board’s decision to open the search or the reports concerning his performance evaluation.
