Jan Vincent Lanuza, News, Communication Management Office
The Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP) signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the non-profit organization Youth for Just Food Systems (YJFS) on May 14 at the Mateo Conference Room.
This partnership focuses on providing stronger educational support, collaborative research, community-centered programs, policy advocacy, and the co-development of recurring flagship initiatives centered on mental and physical health and wellbeing and environment education.
The event opened with welcoming remarks from Dr. Angelita S. Villaruel, Chief of the Extension and Community Linkages Center of the Extension Management Office (EMO), who commended the organization for forwarding awareness about food security, enabling initiatives towards a healthier Iskolar ng Bayan.
Development of healthy and sustainable food options in the University
Executive Director Castle Reynera saw this partnership as a way of giving back to the Sintang Paaralan. As PUP alumnus, Reynera said that this MOU recognizes the issue of the food systems crisis and its impact on student life.
“It is a recognition that food systems matter. That the question of food within our university is not a secondary issue, nor simply a matter of consumption, canteen operations, or personal lifestyle. Food shapes the conditions of student life itself. It shapes health, learning, dignity, accessibility, welfare, sustainability, and ultimately the futures we collectively build within and beyond the university.” Reynera stated.
“This partnership is grounded in the belief that food systems transformation must be democratic, humane, equitable, and sustainable. That food justice cannot be separated from public welfare. That sustainability cannot exist without social justice.” They added.
Vice President for Research, Extension, and Development Dr. Anna Ruby P. Gapasin reiterated the University’s commitment to this partnership, highlighting that this youth-led initiative will drive future projects for sustainability and plant-based nutrition alternatives. In addition, EMO Director Rolan J. Malvar noted that the signed MOU aligns with the University’s directive to implement outreach programs focusing on food security and health, while emphasizing PUP’s need to develop its own sustainable and healthy food sources.
Towards a greener PUP
YJFS expressed excitement about this new venture, noting its role in sustaining programs such as the PUP Gulayaán Festival, a plant-based festival at the University.
Through this partnership, the Sintang Paaralan reaffirms its commitment to community-building and national development. This initiative adheres to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) set by the United Nations (UN), specifically Goal 2: Zero Hunger, Goal 3: Good Health and Well-Being, Goal 12: Responsible Production and Consumption, and Goal 17: Partnerships for the Goals. It also continues forging ahead to promote programs focused on sustainable agriculture, food security, and wellness—fostering not only a stronger PUP community but also a more resilient nation.
Please click/tap the appropriate link to help you in your navigation of our services
Applicant Student Faculty Member or Employee Researcher or Extensionist Alumni Campus Life Sustainable Development Goals Back to Homepage