Polytechnic University of the Philippines

PUP-GS leads capacity-building efforts in BARMM through project management and IPMA Certification

Thu, 04 Dec 2025 16:36:00 GMT

Jan Vincent Lanuza, Press Release, Communication Management Office

The Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP) reaffirmed its commitment to public service and institutional excellence by successfully delivering a specialized Project Management Course (PMC) for the technical staff of the Bangsamoro Planning and Development Authority (BPDA). The program culminated in the administration of the International Project Management Association (IPMA) Level D Certification Examination on November 20, 2025, at BPDA Conference Hall 2, Bangsamoro Government Center.

_{Photo courtesy: Bangsamoro Planning and Development Authority Facebook page}

The Graduate Diploma in Project Management (GDipPM), designed and implemented by PUP under the leadership of University President Dr. Manuel M. Muhi, Graduate School Dean Dr. Elmer G. De Jose, and Program Chair for the Master of Science in Industrial Engineering (MSIE) and Diploma in Project Management, Dr. Philip P. Ermita, provided 18 BPDA professionals with rigorous training aligned with global project management standards. The program enhanced both individual competencies and institutional capacity, while preparing participants for IPMA certification eligibility. Dr. Christoper F. Sasot, GS faculty member and trainer on Gender Equality, Diversity, and Social Inclusion (GEDSI), also contributed to the curriculum’s inclusive design.

The three-hour IPMA Level D examination assessed participants on core competencies, including stakeholder engagement, risk management, resource planning, and project lifecycle execution—essential skills for effective public infrastructure and development planning. Supported by the Australian Embassy through the Australia Awards and spearheaded by Felipe Sasa, the initiative emphasized the value of continuous professional development. PUP served as the academic and technical lead, overseeing curriculum delivery, competency assessment, and certification preparation.

The senior officials of PUP, Muhi, De Jose, and Ermita, meanwhile shared insights on the long-term importance of project management education in public governance. Deputy Bangsamoro Director General Engr. Amil J. Abubakar emphasized the importance of sustaining the momentum generated by the training, saying, “This program may be concluding, but the real work continues. Let us take what we have learned and turn it into action, commitment, and positive change. As we step back into our roles, may we remain united in our mission and driven by our vision for a more progressive and sustainable BARMM.”

His message highlighted BPDA’s commitment to ensuring that the knowledge gained contributes meaningfully to improved planning, implementation, and service delivery for the Bangsamoro people.

Meanwhile, Engr. Roqaidah K. Ladiasan presented the Re-entry Action Plan (REAP), outlining how participants intended to apply their newly acquired competencies in their respective units. Participant representative Hasna A. Adam followed it with an expression of gratitude on behalf of her peers to the BPDA and its partners for the opportunity.

The event marks a significant milestone in PUP’s expanding portfolio of applied academic partnerships with government agencies—fulfilling its mandate as the People’s University to bridge theory and practice in service of national progress. Through initiatives like the PMC, PUP continues to champion professionalization, evidence-based planning, and sustainable development.

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SKM President, PUP delegates triumph in OSLP 2025

Thu, 04 Dec 2025 16:28:00 GMT

Jasmine Joson, News, Communication Management Office

Students from the Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP) ranked among the top achievers at the 1st Outstanding Student Leaders’ Convention and 5th Student Affairs and Services International Convention organized by Transforming Advocates and Champions (TRAC) Philippines and held from October 1 to 3, 2025, at the Venus Parkview Hotel in Baguio City.

The Sintang Paaralan proudly celebrates the remarkable achievements of its delegates on the national stage. Tiffany Faith F. Brillante, president of the PUP Sentral na Konseho ng Mag-aaral (PUP SKM), showcased exemplary leadership as she earned a place among the Top 20 finalists of OSLP 2025.

Demonstrating the university’s creative excellence, Lara Denise A. Tinos and Ross Hashanah D. Rodolfo secured 1st Place in the Traditional Poster-Making and Singing Competitions, respectively. Meanwhile, the team of Edda Shane E. Mercado, Jhay Mark A. Ortiz Luis, Keiyon Lurk B. Quiambao, Rafael Joshua L. Abbot, and Juliana Mhae C. Tiotangco captivated the audience with a dynamic performance, winning 2nd Place in the Group Dance Competition.

_{Photo courtesy: TRAC Philippines Facebook page post}

In an interview, Brillante, the Top 20 finalist, shared her humbling experience and eye-opening takeaway in the recently concluded event.

“The overall experience as an OSLP finalist has become a very beautiful opportunity to bring the story of our university to the national stage and of course, to share the struggles, the achievements that we have here in PUP to that kind of platform where I am with other student leaders from different universities.”

Brillante also recounts the ‘Kwentong PUPian’ that fuels her win as one of the numerous student leaders in the convention in Baguio City.

“The PUPian story that we brought in the convention is the story of the students, workers, teachers of our whole community and that I think, is the sweetest victory that we attained as a student-leader as it is my honor to represent the Polytechnic University of the Philippines in the national stage and we contribute this to the collective struggle of the students here in PUP and to the wide range of Filipinos because our fight does not end in that kind of competition.”

More than 200 student affairs practitioners, educators, and student leaders across the country emphasized the essence of student affairs and services, as well as its fruition through effective and authentic student leadership. Altogether, the three-day event served as the platform for insightful discussions for strengthened advocacies and initiatives that will mold the next generation of youth leaders.

Thus, this proved once again that Sintang Paaralan remains a home to progressive spaces for every Iskolar ng Bayan as it corresponds to that of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals—Quality Education (SDG 4). The University continuously upholds its commitment to delivering excellence as it brings honor and pride even on the national stage.

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Notable Iskolars earn recognitions in Gawad Pagkilala 2025

Thu, 04 Dec 2025 16:19:00 GMT

Jasmine Joson, News, Communication Management Office

The Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP) grants major awards to its exemplary students and coaches during the annual Gawad Pagkilala sa mga Natatanging Mag-aaral on October 10, 2025, at the University Gymnasium.

Graced by the presence of esteemed directors, faculty members, students, and their respective coaches hailing from the Mabini Campus and Satellite Campuses, the University Gym echoed with cheers and claps as the awarding ceremony recognized their academic excellence, influential leadership, athleticism, and cultural artistry.

Amongst the reputable directors and officials of the event was Assistant to the Vice President for Research, Extension, and Development (AVPRED) Dr. Angelina E. Borican, who began the ceremony with her opening remarks.

The awarding ceremony was distinguished by four award categories: Natatanging Pinunong Mag-aaral, Nagwagi sa Akademikong Patimpalak ng Unibersidad, Natatanging Atleta, and Natatanging Artistang Kultural.

Each award category was then presented by the following key officials: Director of Office of the Student Services (OSS) Professor Jimmy M. Fernando; Assistant Vice President for Academic Affairs (AVPAA) Professor Edelyn M. Mariano-Guillo; Director of Sports Development Program Office (SDPO) Professor Romulo B. Hubbard; and Director of University Center for Culture and the Arts (UCCA) Professor Bely R. Ygot.

Champions of UAC 2025 Announced
The victors of the University Academic Contests (UAC) 2025 were also applauded during the ceremony’s Gawad Pagkilala sa mga Nagwagi sa Akademikong Patimpalak ng Unibersidad. After competing in multiple categories, the three were named as the Champions of UAC 2025: PUP Sto. Tomas clinched the overall champion title, the College of Education (COED) secured first place, and the College of Computer and Information Sciences (CCIS) placed second.

Reaping the Fruits of Labor
Second placer of Dagliang Talumpati of UAC 2025, James Reniel Villarey, looked back at his journey that led to his win.

“Of course, during our preparation, we had intensive training. I think that’s the hardest thing—the struggle there is whenever they give me a question, I must answer. But at the same time, that struggle helped me to gain enough knowledge that whatever question will be given to me, I know that I can answer.”

Despite these struggles, Villarey felt the most fulfilled after reaping the success of his hard work. He also expressed his gratitude for the people who believed in his capabilities after placing second.

“I feel fulfilled since all my hard work lasted weeks. In week one, we had intensive training, and I am happy that it bloomed into something good as I won an award. And I do believe that I deserve it. Besides that, I worked for it, I also owe this to my coaches and to the people that believed that I could win.”

Meanwhile, Alyssa Kylie Mallari of College of Human Kinetics, was recognized as Natatanging Atleta for bringing pride to the University through her exceptional Muaythai skills.

This recognition is not the first for Mallari as she is a renowned International Federation of Muaythai Associations (IFMA) World Champion and was named as the Young Olympic Ambassador, earlier this year. Her achievements are not an overnight success, but with determination and grit, Mallari has become one of the prominent figures of Muaythai—reaping the fruits of her labor.

Mallari explained, “Our hard work paid off but at the same time, it’s like, for me, every win, it’s another challenge that I should sustain or hopefully next time, something better.”

Villarey and Mallari’s triumphs reflect the wide array of capabilities witnessed in the awarding ceremony. It is proof that there is no such thing as impossible when dreams are paired with diligence.

Undoubtedly, the multiple victories became possible through outstanding PUP students and coaches—in parallel to United Nations Sustainable Development Goals 4 (Quality Education). Through quality education provided by Sintang Paaralan, every Iskolar is destined for greater heights and the pinnacle of excellency.

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GEDSIO Strengthens Gender Sensitivity Through GBV and ASH Refresher

Fri, 28 Nov 2025 11:20:00 GMT

Jerikka Nicole Acelo, Kimberly Maligaya, News, Gender Equity, Diversity, and Social Inclusion Office

The University Gender Equity, Diversity, and Social Inclusion Office (GEDSIO) successfully conducted a Gender-Based Violence and Anti-Sexual Harassment (GBV and ASH) Refresher Course for academic heads and administrative employees on Tuesday, October 14, 2025, at the Claro M. Recto Hall. In partnership with the Unyon ng Nagkakaisang Kawani ng PUP (UNAKA-PUP), the initiative aimed to reinforce gender sensitivity and awareness while promoting an inclusive, safe, and gender-responsive environment for all students and employees.

The program featured highly relevant discussions on gender-based violence and anti-sexual harassment, led by GEDSIO Chief for Gender and Training Advocacy, Jose V. Clutario. GEDSIO Director Jerome Permejo presented an overview of Commission on Decorum and Investigation (CODI) cases within the university, highlighting both the positive and challenging implications of sexual harassment data collected from 2021 to 2024. The session was further enriched by GEDSIO Chief for Inclusivity and Diversity, Mieca Aguinaldo, who facilitated a brief dialogue on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI).

Further insights were shared on the CODI Primer on Sexual Harassment Cases through talks by Atty. Joanna Marie A. Liao, Chief Legal Counsel of the University Legal Counsel Office, and Jasmin Buscos, Chief of Guidance Counseling Services. They discussed available Anti-Sexual Harassment (ASH)-related support and counseling services for survivors within the PUP community.

The program concluded with an open forum, giving participants from different campuses an opportunity to raise questions and share perspectives. Student volunteers also distributed snacks as a gesture of appreciation to the on-site attendees.

In line with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 5: Gender Equality and SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities, GEDSIO remains steadfast in conducting this annual program as part of its commitment to uphold the rights, dignity, and safety of every member of the university community while fostering a more equitable and inclusive PUP.

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PUPCET 2026 is now open

Thu, 27 Nov 2025 15:09:00 GMT

John Wyne M. Palad, News, Communication Management Office

The Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP) has officially opened the application period for the PUP College Entrance Test (PUPCET) 2026, inviting aspiring Iskolar ng Bayan to begin their journey towards quality public education.

For the Sta. Mesa Campus, applications are open from November 10 to December 31, 2025. Future Iskos are encouraged to create an account through the PUP iApply portal and ensure that all supporting documents are complete and valid.

Applicants must prepare the following requirements:

Grade 11 card showing the complete name, LRN, and GWA for the First and Second Semesters.
2x2 inch colored photo with name tag (Photo guidelines available at https://www.pup.edu.ph/iapply/photoguidelines).

Applicants are advised to carefully follow the step-by-step process indicated in their iApply account or visit https://www.pup.edu.ph/iapply/procedure/pupcet for detailed instructions. They must also remember their registered email and password, which will be used to access their exam permit and results.

Who Are Qualified to Take the PUPCET?
The following applicants are qualified to take the PUP College Entrance Test (PUPCET):

Grade 12 students expected to graduate at the end of Academic Year 2024–2025.
Graduates from K–12 pilot schools who have not enrolled in any technical, diploma, or degree program after graduation, with a General Weighted Average (GWA) of not lower than 82%.
Passers of PEPT, ALS, or NFEA & E Programs in accordance with the Department of Education (DepEd) regulations and certified eligible for admission to college or tertiary level.

Applicants are advised to allow six (6) to twenty (20) working days after completing their online application before downloading and printing their PUPCET e-Permit through their iApply account.

PUPCET 2026 Schedule Across Campuses
According to the tentative schedule released by the University, the application period for PUPCET 2026 runs from December 1, 2025, to May 11, 2026, depending on the campus, while examinations will take place between February 21 and May 16, 2026.

For PUP Caloocan, applications are open from December 1, 2025 to February 18, 2026, with the examination set on February 21, 2026. PUP Leyte follows from December 1, 2025 to February 27, 2026, with the examination set on March 6, 2026.

Applications for PUP Mulanay and PUP Lopez are open from January 5, 2026, with examinations scheduled on April 11, 2026. Examinations for General Luna, Sto. Tomas, Ragay, and Bansud will be on April 12, 2026, followed by Sablayan on April 14, 2026.

Sta. Rosa and Calauan will conduct their exams on April 18, 2026, while Unisan, Quezon City, San Juan, and Sta. Maria will hold theirs on April 19, 2026. San Pedro and Pakil will have their exams on April 23 and 24, 2026, respectively.

Taguig and Biñan will administer the PUPCET on April 25, 2026, and Cabiao on April 26, 2026. Bataan and Parañaque are scheduled on May 3, 2026, Alfonso on May 9, 2026, and Pulilan and Maragondon on May 10, 2026. The final schedule is set for May 16, 2026, at PUP Talisay Campus.

Where to Apply
All PUPCET applicants must apply online using the PUP iApply portal. Each applicant is allowed to apply and take the PUPCET in only one PUP campus per academic year. Multiple applications will result in disqualification, and applications are non-transferable.

The PUP iApply portal performs best using Google Chrome (version 20 or higher), Mozilla Firefox (version 20 or higher), or Microsoft Edge.

The PUPCET serves as the official admission examination of the Polytechnic University of the Philippines for incoming first-year students, ensuring transparent and merit-based access to quality education across its campuses nationwide.

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Kuwentong Dose Pesos (Issue 10, November 2025)

Thu, 27 Nov 2025 14:22:00 GMT

PUP Sta. Mesa, Manila, Alumni, Research Publications Office

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Empowering Filipinos Through Financial Education in 1st National Financial Inclusion Summit

Wed, 19 Nov 2025 16:33:00 GMT

Jan Vincent Lanuza, News, Communication Management Office

To harness the transformative power of financial literacy among young Filipinos, the Cebuana Lhuiller Foundation Inc. (CLFI), alongside the Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP), Philippine Association of State Universities and Colleges (PASUC), and the League of Corporate Foundations (LCP), held the National Financial Inclusion Summit on November 13 at Novotel, Cubao, Quezon City.

The event gathered educators and curriculum developers, state university and college (SUCs) administrators, policymakers, financial regulators, private sector representatives, local government units (LGU), and community partners. Its objectives were to underscore the role of education in advancing financial inclusion and resilience, equip academic institutions with tools to embed inclusive financial literacy into curricula and programs, strengthen collaboration among academe, government, and private sector, and promote access to financial services and digital platforms for students and school communities.

University President Dr. Manuel M. Muhi, in his welcome remarks, welcomed delegates and media and highlighted education’s power to drive financial awareness. “Let us remember: Financial literacy is empowerment, financial access is inclusion, and inclusion is justice.” Muhi said. “Together, through this Summit, let us commit to a future where no learner is left behind, where financial inclusion is not a privilege for the few, but a right for all.”

Echoing Muhi’s words, LCP Board of Trustees Chairperson, Shem Jose W. Garcia, affirmed a shared commitment to “working towards a brighter financial future,” while Senator Paolo Benigno “Bam” A. Aquino IV expressed gratitude to educators and pledged his full support for their advocacy. TESDA Deputy Director General for Administration and Innovation Galo Glino III reiterated the agency’s dedication to integrating financial education into technical-vocational training and exploring expanded course offerings in partnership with SUC’s.

Representing DepEd Secretary Sonny Angara, Assistant Secretary Janir T. Datukan underscored the urgency of teaching financial literacy early, stating, “Our goal is for every Filipino learner, regardless of social status, to have the confidence to properly manage money,” and framing financial inclusion as an act of hope that cultivates both economic and social responsibility.

Spotlight presentations, panel discussions, and feature segments highlighted the critical role of education in advancing financial literacy and inclusion among young Filipinos. The speakers emphasized the need to embed practical, digital, and inclusive financial education across all levels—from kindergarten to higher education and underscored the importance of strengthening the financial abilities of the youth within the education system.

Among the distinguished speakers at the summit were:

Jean Henri D. Lhuillier, President and CEO of the PJ Lhuillier Group of Companies, who delivered a keynote titled “From Access to Impact: Why Financial Inclusion Starts with Education.”
Atty. Charina B. De Vera-Yap, Managing Director of the Financial Inclusion and Consumer Empowerment Sub-Sector (FINCESS) at the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas, with her presentation “Beyond Banking: Building a Digitally Inclusive Financial Ecosystem.”
Carmina F. Bayombong, Founder and CEO of InvestEd Philippines, who spoke on “Breaking Barriers: How Student Financing Can Redefine Financial Inclusion for the Next Generation.”
Dr. Francisco S. A. Sandejas, Founder and CEO of Xepto Education Philippines, presenting “Digital Pathways to Financial Inclusion: Empowering Learners through EdTech Innovation.”
Dr. Laarni Evelyn A. Santiago, Principal of the High School of the University of Makati and Associate Professor at the College of Innovative Teacher Education (CITE), UMak, who shared insights in “Integrating Financial Inclusion in the Curriculum: The UMak Experience.”
Michael F. Rellosa, Executive Director and Trustee of the Philippine Insurers and Reinsurers Association (PIRA), with his talk “Digital Insurance and Financial Inclusion: Making Protection Accessible to Every Filipino.”
Dr. Majoe Badola, Education and Services Manager at Xepto Education Philippines, who introduced “Digital Tools for Financial Literacy: The CLFI #LahatKasama FinLit Module.”

The National Financial Inclusion Summit’s unifying message was clear: by embedding practical, inclusive, and digitally enabled financial education early and across all levels, the Philippines can build a generation not only academically capable but financially resilient. It should equip to uplift families, withstand crises, and drive inclusive growth.

CLFI Executive Director Jonathan D. Batangan, to officially bring the occasion to a close, thanked every education, public, and private partner for helping bring the vision of “a nation where every student not only how to earn but how to save, invest, and rebuild” to reality.

“In the end, financial inclusion is not just about money, it is about dignity.” said Batangan, a PUP alumnus. “The dignity of a student who no longer has to drop out, the dignity of a family that can rise again after a storm, the dignity of every Filipino who can say may pag-asa, may paraan, kaya kong bumangon (there is hope, there is a way, I can rise again.).”

The Sintang Paaralan continues to affirm its commitment to empowering not only PUPians, but all young Filipinos through financial literacy, resiliency, and inclusion. The National Financial Inclusion Summit aligns with several United Nations’ Sustainable Goals (SDGs), particularly in No. 4 in Quality Education, No. 10 in Reduced Inequalities, No. 11 in Sustainable Cities and Communities, and No. 17 in Partnership for the Goals. Through this initiative, PUP strives to contribute meaningfully to the financial advancement of Filipinos nationwide.

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UCCA Inks Partnership with UP College of Music, seals a Concert Collaboration

Wed, 19 Nov 2025 16:30:00 GMT

Hemmady S. Mora, News, University Center for Culture and the Arts

The Polytechnic University of the Philippines and University of the Philippines Diliman College of Music – Music Education Department have formalized a new academic and cultural partnership which will provide training, talent development, and workshop opportunities for PUP students and performing groups. The first beneficiary of this collaboration is the Harana String Company (HSC) of the University Center for Culture and the Arts (UCCA), which is now undergoing specialized music training leading to a collaborative concert this December.

The partnership was sealed during the Ceremonial Signing of the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) held on Friday, November 7, 2025, at the Office of the Vice President for Student Affairs and Services (VPSAS). Present at the signing were VPSAS Tomas Testor, UCCA Director Bely Ygot, UCCA Music Chief Hemmady Mora, UP College of Music proponent Janroni Max, and HSC President Michael Bato. Their presence underscored the joint commitment of UP and PUP to strengthen music education and performance opportunities for students.

As part of the agreement, trainings on conducting and instrumentation for HSC are currently being led by Janroni Max, a music education student from the UP College of Music, under the guidance of his adviser, Prof. Jesher Edrei Perez. The ongoing workshop series is designed to sharpen the ensemble’s technical skills, deepen their musical interpretation, and prepare them for a full-length collaborative concert.

These efforts will culminate in a production titled “Once Upon A Spell: Maestros in the Making,” set to be staged on December 13 at PUP Bulwagang Balagtas. The concert will showcase the growth of the Harana String Company under the mentorship program and highlight the shared musical aspirations of UP and PUP. The entire PUP community is invited to attend; admission is free.

Beyond the concert, the partnership advances the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 4: Quality Education, which calls for inclusive and equitable quality education and lifelong learning opportunities for all, and SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals, which emphasizes strong collaborations across institutions to achieve sustainable development. By linking formal music training, performance opportunities, and institutional collaboration, the UP–PUP partnership positions the arts as a vital pathway for holistic education and community-building within and beyond the university.

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“Potato Umamix” wins best concept at 5th Research Pitching Competition

Fri, 14 Nov 2025 15:54:00 GMT

Jasmine Joson, News, Communication Management Office

The Research Institute for Science and Technology (RIST) under the Office of the Vice President for Research, Extension, and Development (OVPRED), convened senior student-researchers from different colleges and campuses to present their groundbreaking solutions to real-world issues at the 5th PUP Research Pitching Competition, held on November 7, 2025, at Bulwagang Bonifacio. The annual research competition served as a dynamic platform for transformative and solution-driven ideas, highlighting the research excellence of PUP students.

Out of 40 research entries, only 10 finalists were selected to orally present their most compelling and innovative concepts before an esteemed panel of adjudicators and an audience composed of RIST members and students from the University’s main campus and satellite branches, including Sto. Tomas, San Pedro, and Biñan.

Participants from the College of Science (CS) and the College of Computer and Information Sciences (CCIS) showcased a variety of timely projects. From mobile applications designed to streamline rescue operations, monitor rising water levels during typhoons, and AI-powered assistants capable of detecting pain levels among animals through facial recognition, to a person’s environmental footprint.

Other projects catered to healthier food alternatives, such as Tempeh-based Tocino and the use of potato peels as a sustainable food seasoning.

On behalf of Vice President for Research, Extension, and Development, Anna Ruby P. Gapasin, Vice President for Student Affairs and Services, Tomas O. Testor conveyed the University’s support for the student researchers.

“We are very excited to see the innovative ideas and hard work each of you has put into your projects. This competition is a fantastic opportunity to showcase your creativity, critical thinking, and passion for research. Whatever groundbreaking findings you’re presenting or exploring new questions, your efforts will surely contribute to the future of knowledge and innovation.”

After a series of thought-provoking presentations, only three were hailed as winners for their exemplary work: “Potato Umamix,” “Tempeh-based Tocino,” and “EnviroTrace,” placing first, second, and third, respectively. Each of them was granted monetary prizes, allocated for the completion of their research projects.

How “Potato Umamix” Becomes the Solution to Two Global Challenges
Titled “Turning Waste into Taste: Valorization of Potato Peels for the Development of a Natural Umami Flavor Ingredient,” the first-place research project from the Department of Food Technology, headed by Asst. Prof. Erwin L. Descallar, PFT, and Glencel Flores, Jasmine Gozum, Jessie Ray Roque, and Keziah Mesias, features “Potato Umamix”—a natural seasoning made from potato peels.

The project is initially anchored on the global problem of potato peel wastage, where a single potato peel might not be alarming, but peel after peel, it contributes considerably to an already critical stage of global warming.

“Potato Umamix” also addressed the adverse effects of prolonged use of MSG. The project will collect potato peels that are commonly thrown away, use enzymes to extract natural compounds, and transform them into a natural food enhancer. Thus, by maximizing the use of potato peels as an alternative food seasoning, it solves a problem with another problem, introducing itself as a potential upcoming success in the food industry.

In an interview with “Potato Umamix” presenter, Keziah Mesias described the idea that sparked the beginning of their project.

“Our inspiration came from the global production of potatoes. There are studies that show how 348 million tons of potatoes are harvested annually and with that, the peels end up in waste, so why not turn it into something valuable? That is why we turned ‘waste into taste’.”

Mesias also shared her prospects for the study in the same interview.

“My hope is to turn our vision into reality. In the future, we are aiming to replace the commercially available MSG right now due to its high sodium content, and with our product, we are offering a lesser sodium flavor enhancer.”

RIST Director Armin S. Coronado concluded the event by highlighting the competition’s growth, noting how each year’s entries continue to surpass the last. He also expressed hope for greater participation from Sinta’s colleges and campuses in the years ahead.

The Innovative Minds of Iskolar ng Bayan
The research competition did not only feature the great minds of Iskolar ng Bayan, but it also resonates with PUP’s commitment in promoting powerful discussions that fuel lifelong learning for all. This aligns with United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): SDG 1 (No Poverty), SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being), SDG 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation), SDG 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy), SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure), SDG 13 (Climate Action), SDG 14 (Life Below Water), and SDG 15 (Life on Land).

This event, in partnership with the University and its stakeholders, fosters innovation and contributes to building a better nation—one bright idea at a time.

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Young scientists on the rise receive thesis grants from DOST

Fri, 14 Nov 2025 15:45:00 GMT

Jan Vincent Lanuza, News, Communication Management Office

Three BS Chemistry student-researcher groups from the Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP) College of Science have been awarded undergraduate thesis grants in computation chemistry by the Department of Science and Technology – Advanced Science and Technology Institute (DOST-ASTI), in recognition of their scientific innovation in computational research.

The funded studies include:

“Multi-Scale Computational Modeling of Lysogenic Phage Therapy Against Antibiotic-Resistant Bacteria,” led by Frederick Philps S. Batula and Kofi S. Regaspi, under the guidance of Dr. Erickson E. Fajiculay;
“In Silico Screening of Tetrapeptides as C-Domain Selective ACE Inhibitors: Molecular Docking and Simulation Studies,” by Angela C. Agulto and Heart Ysebelle R. Basilonia, advised by Dr. Fajiculay and Al Vincent A. Jabines; and
“In Silico Workflow for Anti-Virulence Peptide Design Targeting the B6R Protein of Monkeypox Virus,” spearheaded by Trisha Mae M. Lalemarmo and Mary Amethyst Tome, mentored by Dr. Fajiculay and Dr. Leana Rich H. Ong.

These studies stood out for their integration of computational science and molecular research to address pressing health and biomedical concerns.

Through this grant, the student-researchers gained access to vital support and state of the art computing facilities via DOST-ASTI’s Computing and Archiving Research Environment (COARE), HPC, and Science Cloud Services, allowing them to significantly enhance the quality and scope of their respective research works.

These opportunities underscore PUP’s continuous partnership with national research agencies like DOST to foster scientific discovery and innovation.

The Sintang Paaralan reaffirms its commitment to empowering young scientists to pursue high-impact and socially relevant studies aligned the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly No. 3 in Good Health and Well-Being, No. 4 in Quality Education, No. 11 in Sustainable Cities and Communities, and No. 17 in Partnership for the Goals. With this support, PUP continues to reinforce its research culture and contribute meaningfully to national and global scientific advancement.

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