Research Quality Assurance as a Predictor of Sustainable University Extension Programs: Evidence from Selected State Universities in Northern Luzon, Philippines

Research and university extension are complementary functions of higher education institutions that promote knowledge generation, technology transfer, and sustainable community development. Despite increasing institutional investments in research quality assurance and university extension, limited empirical evidence has examined how research quality assurance practices contribute to the sustainability of university extension programs. Existing studies have largely investigated research quality assurance and university extension independently, leaving their relationship insufficiently explored, particularly within Philippine State Universities and Colleges. This study examined the relationship between research quality assurance practices and the sustainability of university extension programs among selected State Universities and Colleges in Northern Luzon, Philippines, namely the Abra State Institute of Sciences and Technology, Don Mariano Marcos Memorial State University, and Mountain Province State University. A quantitative descriptive-correlational research design was employed. Data were collected from 150 faculty members and research and extension personnel selected through purposive sampling using a validated questionnaire. Descriptive statistics and Pearson's Product-Moment Correlation Coefficient were used to analyze the data. The findings revealed that research quality assurance practices were implemented at a high level (M = 4.15, SD = 0.67), while the sustainability of university extension programs was likewise rated high (M = 4.14, SD = 0.67). Correlation analysis showed a strong, positive, and statistically significant relationship between research quality assurance practices and the sustainability of university extension programs (r = 0.742, p < .001). These findings indicate that robust research quality assurance systems strengthen evidence-based extension planning, enhance long-term community engagement, and improve the sustainability of university extension initiatives. The study provides empirical support for integrating research quality assurance into institutional governance to advance sustainable development goals, reinforce university–community partnerships, and guide higher education institutions in formulating policies that maximize the societal impact of research and extension programs.