, Press Release, Communication Management Office
Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP) President Dr. Manuel M. Muhi received the Asia’s Modern Hero for Advancing Accessible and Inclusive Education Award at the Asia’s Modern Hero Awards 2026 on September 25 at Okada Manila in Parañaque City. The award recognized Dr. Muhi’s leadership, spearheading programs designed bring classes and university services to underserved communities, out-of-school youth (OSY), and to persons deprived of liberty (PDL).
In his acceptance message, Dr. Muhi said the award belongs to the University. “I accept this recognition not simply as a personal honor, but as a recognition of the Polytechnic University of the Philippines and the people behind its continuing mission to serve the Filipino people through education,” he said.
“For us at PUP, leadership in education means more than opening the doors of the University. It means bringing those doors closer to the people… Education must remain a pathway to hope, even for those whose circumstances have placed them behind walls. A person’s past should not permanently define their future ” he said.
PUP offers academic programs to OSYs and PDLs through its Open University System. Under his administration, PUP has also expanded its extension and community programs, which deliver the University’s training and services outside the campus. These programs support the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals on Quality Education (SDG 4) and Reduced Inequalities (SDG 10).
The Asia’s Modern Hero Awards recognizes individuals whose work has strengthened their communities and advanced their fields. This year’s awardees include public servants, educators, business leaders, healthcare professionals, diplomats and industry pioneers. The awards were presented by the Golden Icons Foundation, produced by Asia’s Golden Icons Awards & Events Inc., and powered by Chunnel & Channel Realty Marketing & Development Corporation.
About the Polytechnic University of the Philippines
The Polytechnic University of the Philippines is the largest state university in terms of student population. It envisions itself as a leading polytechnic university in Asia-Pacific, committed to providing accessible, quality, and relevant higher education to learners across all walks of life. Guided by its vision and mission, PUP advances academic excellence, research and innovation, community engagement, and inclusive public service in pursuit of national development and global competitiveness.
For media inquiries, partnership opportunities, and updates, please visit www.pup.edu.ph or contact the University Communication Management Office at commcenter@pup.edu.ph or directly through its Media Relations Officers:
Angelo G. Acedera, agacedera@pup.edu.ph
Elaine Carie A. Andres, ecaandres@pup.edu.ph
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