Polytechnic University of the Philippines

Sintang Paaralan Returns to PICC, Marking a New Chapter of Service to the Nation

Tue, 22 Sep 2026 10:10:00 GMT

Gicel Roger Salvilla, News, Communication Management Office

Sintang Paaralan returned to the Philippine International Convention Center (PICC) on September 21, marking a memorable opening to the 2026 Year-End Commencement Exercises (YECE) and bringing together thousands of graduates, families, University officials, faculty members, and guests to celebrate years of perseverance, achievement, and service.

Following the renovation of the PICC, the University once again held its commencement exercises at the iconic venue, where 3,915 graduates from the PUP Sta. Mesa Campus marched in three clusters from 8:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. Cluster 1 featured the College of Business Administration (CBA) and the College of the Arts and Letters (CAL); Cluster 2 brought together the College of Human Kinetics (CHK), College of Accountancy and Finance (CAF), and PUP Parañaque Campus; while Cluster 3 featured the College of Engineering (CE) and the College of Architecture, Design and the Built Environment (CADBE).

University President Manuel M. Muhi, together with Vice President for Research and Extension and Development Anna Ruby P. Gapasin, Vice President for Campuses Armando A. Torres, Vice President for Student Affairs and Services Tomas O. Testor, and Vice President for Administration Adam V. Ramilio, joined the University's deans, faculty members, parents, families, and guests in witnessing the graduates take this significant step toward their professional and civic journeys.

Adding distinction to the ceremonies were three commencement speakers who challenged the graduates to turn their education into meaningful action. Consul Enunina V. Mangio, who was conferred the degree of Doctor of Business Administration, Honoris Causa, reminded Cluster 1 graduates that meaningful change does not always require transforming an entire country, but begins with consistently doing one’s part wherever one is. For Cluster 2, Department of Finance Secretary Frederick D. Go, conferred the degree of Doctor of Economics, Honoris Causa, underscored the enduring value of integrity and the importance of earning and protecting the public’s trust. Meanwhile, Department of Public Works and Highways Secretary Vivencio “Vince” B. Dizon, recipient of the Tanglaw ng Bayan Award, urged Cluster 3 graduates to recognize their power to make a difference, use their voices, and help shape the country’s future as the hope on which the nation relies.

Yet beyond the ceremony, Day 1 became a gathering of stories that gave deeper meaning to the graduates' achievements.

Among the graduates who embodied the journey of an Iskolar ng Bayan was Shylen Mae N. Escarpe, a Summa Cum Laude graduate of Bachelor of Physical Education, who described graduating from PUP as a testament to the “hardship and resiliency of being an Iskolar ng Bayan.”

Her PUP journey taught her to step beyond her comfort zone, embrace opportunities, and face failure without fear. As a future physical educator, she plans to promote active and healthy lifestyles by encouraging her future students to participate in sports and regular physical activities.

“As a physical educator, I want to contribute to promoting an active and healthy lifestyle by encouraging people, especially my future students, to participate in sports and regular physical activities,” Escarpe said.

Her mother, Lora N. Escarpe, likewise expressed gratitude to PUP for helping shape her daughter through years of challenges and sacrifice.

“Nagpapasalamat kami sa buong pamunuan ng PUP dahil naka-graduate ang anak namin bilang isang Iskolar ng Bayan. Masayang-masaya kami dahil nakita namin kung paano hinubog ng PUP ang aming anak. Mula sa pagiging matatakuting harapin ang mga pagsubok, ngayon nakakayanan na niyang makipagsapalaran sa Maynila.” Lora shared.

(We are grateful to the entire PUP administration because our daughter graduated as an Iskolar ng Bayan. We are very happy to have witnessed how PUP shaped our daughter. From being afraid to face challenges, she can now confidently take on the challenges of living and pursuing opportunities in Manila.)

For Lora, the journey was shared by the entire family from working to provide for her daughter's needs to enduring the distance while Shylen lived in Manila. She now hopes that her daughter will extend the same transformative influence to the youth.

“Katulad ng paghubog ng PUP sa kanya, sana maging daan din siya upang hubugin ang mga kabataan lalo na sa panahon ngayon na maraming kabataan ang naliligaw ng landas,” she added.

(Just as PUP helped shape her, I hope that she, too, will become an instrument in shaping the youth, especially at a time when many young people are losing their way.)

While Shylen's story reflected the triumph of a graduate and the sacrifices of a family, another moment reminded the PUP community that graduation can also carry profound emotions of love and remembrance.

Rejie Dayun marched in place of his daughter, Catherine Claire Dayun, a Bachelor of Business Administration major in Human Resources graduate who passed away on August 29, 2026, weeks before her graduation. Carrying Catherine's graduation photograph, Rejie walked across the PICC stage to represent his daughter and fulfill the milestone she had worked toward for years.

“Sana masaya sa pinuntahan mo, kasi pinaghirapan mo 'to ng ilang taon. Kahit ako, hindi ko matanggap ang nangyari sa kanya, pero proud na proud ako sa kanya.” Rejie shared.

(I hope you are happy wherever you are now, because you worked hard for this for several years. Even I still cannot accept what happened to her, but I am very, very proud of her.)

His quiet march became a poignant reminder that behind every graduate stands a family whose sacrifices, support, and dreams are part of the journey toward a diploma.

Beyond the celebration of academic milestones, the commencement also provided a space for students to reflect on the country's history and their responsibilities as citizens. As the nation marked the 54th anniversary of the declaration of Martial Law in the Philippines, students raised their voices in remembrance, chanting “NEVER AGAIN! NEVER AGAIN!” and carrying the message “SERVE THE PEOPLE.”

The moment underscored the role of the Iskolar ng Bayan not only as graduates, but as citizens called to remember history, uphold democratic values, participate meaningfully in society, and put knowledge into action for the Filipino people.

As the graduates begin their next chapter, they carry with them the University's INSPIRED Core Values as their foundation for meaningful contributions to their professions, communities, and the nation. Their journeys likewise advance PUP's commitment to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 4: Quality Education through accessible and transformative education; SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth through the preparation of graduates for productive professional lives; SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities through inclusive public education; and SDG 16: Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions through civic responsibility and democratic participation.

From the classroom to the community, the students now carry their knowledge beyond PUP, to build, innovate, lead, and serve the nation. They marched for their degrees; they now step forward as the nation's future leaders, ready to lead with integrity, serve with purpose, and use their knowledge for the nation.

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Bisig Vol. 6 Special Issue on Justice and Lasting Peace Highlights Research on Philippine Peacebuilding

Tue, 22 Sep 2026 07:56:00 GMT

Jeniel P. Dasig, News, Research Institute for Human and Social Development

In observance of National Peace Consciousness Month 2026, the Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP) revisits Bisig, Vol. 6 (2024), Special Issue on Justice and Lasting Peace (Natatanging Isyu sa Pangmatagalang Kapayapaang Nakabatay sa Katarungan), which brings together scholarly perspectives on justice, peacebuilding, and the social and political conditions shaping the pursuit of lasting peace in the Philippines.

Produced through the collaboration of the Research and Publication Office (RPO), Center for Peace, Social Justice, and Human Rights Studies (CPSJHRS), and Center for Labor and Industrial Relations Studies (CLIRS), in partnership with Scholars for Peace, the special issue features research articles, commentary, a book review, and an interview examining the challenges and possibilities of achieving just and lasting peace.

Among the featured contributions is Angelo Vince S. Marfil’s “Praxis ng Rebeldeng Pamamahala ng Kilusang Pambanda-Demokratiko at Posibilidad ng Muling Pagbubukas ng Usapang Pangkapayapaan,” which examines the limited scholarship on revolutionary governance in the Philippines and explores the possibility of reopening peace negotiations toward the resolution of armed conflict.

Meanwhile, Gary F. Musa and Ana Dominique G. Santos analyze the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA) between the Philippines and the United States in their article, “EDCA as the Geopolitics of Imperialist Crises and Its Threat to Peace in the Philippines.” Drawing on the theories of capitalist crisis and imperialism, the authors examine the agreement’s geopolitical implications, including its relationship to Philippine national autonomy and the pursuit of just and lasting peace.

The special issue also features Dr. Sol Iglesias’s commentary, “A Just and Sustainable Peace in the Philippines,” which identifies key requirements for a just and sustainable peace process, including a ceasefire, respect for International Humanitarian Law (IHL), protection of negotiators, confidence-building measures, disarmament and demobilization, and addressing spoilers to the peace process.

In her book review, “The Singing Detainee and the Librarian with One Book: Essays on Exile (2023) by Michael Beltran,” Dr. Mary Grace Concepcion examines how Beltran’s first-person narrative portrays the experiences of revolutionaries Jose Maria Sison and Julieta de Lima in exile, while highlighting the complex dimensions of revolutionary struggle.

The publication concludes with an interview with Rey Claro Casambre conducted by Scholars for Peace. The interview presents Casambre’s perspectives as a peace consultant involved in peace negotiations between the Government of the Republic of the Philippines (GRP) and the National Democratic Front of the Philippines (NDFP), as well as his views on the role of education in advancing just and lasting peace.

The issue also includes a preface by Dr. Michael D. Pante and a message from Chief Rimando E. Felicia of CLIRS, who served as Guest Editor and Editor-in-Chief, respectively, of the Bisig Journal. Their contributions emphasize the view that the foundation of peace rests not only on justice but also on the elimination of oppression and exploitation.

Aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions, the special issue underscores the importance of justice, inclusive dialogue, and critical scholarship in advancing peaceful and equitable societies. It also contributes to broader discussions on SDG 4 (Quality Education) through its emphasis on education and research as instruments for social transformation

Through the publication, PUP emphasizes the role of research and scholarly discourse in critically examining Philippine society and contributing to discussions on just and lasting peace. The special issue reflects the University's commitment to freedom of expression, critical inquiry, and social responsibility, in keeping with its guiding principle, Mula sa Iyo, Para sa Bayan.

Article edited by: Brent Soriano, Communication Management Office

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PUP Engineering Programs Undergo ACBET Accreditation

Thu, 17 Sep 2026 07:58:00 GMT

Elaine Carie A. Andres, Press Release, Communication Management Office

Three Engineering programs offered by the Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP) undergo the international accreditation from the Philippine Technological Council–Accreditation and Certification Board for Engineering and Technology (PTC-ACBET), from September 14 to 16, 2026.

Assessed programs include the Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering, the Bachelor of Science in Electronics Engineering, and the Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering. All three hold Level IV re-accredited status under Accrediting Agency of Chartered Colleges and Universities in the Philippines (AACCUP).

PTC is the only organization recognized by the Commission on Higher Education to accredit engineering programs in the country. In June 2024, the parties to the Washington Accord approved PTC as a full signatory, making the Philippines the 25th jurisdiction represented in the agreement. Graduates of programs accredited under PTC-ACBET are therefore recognized as holding qualifications substantially equivalent to those earned in other signatory jurisdictions, which helps them practice and pursue further study abroad. PUP earlier received PTC Tier 1 status after an assessment of its engineering practices.

"We treat this visit as a working partnership with PTC-ACBET, not just an evaluation of our programs," said Dr. Remedios G. Ado, Dean of the College of Engineering. "What the assessors observed will guide the changes we make so our graduates leave us globally competitive and ready to serve the country's needs."

The assessors reviewed the college's engineering programs along with their program educational objectives, curriculum, faculty, teaching and learning activities, laboratories, facilities, and student services during the three-day visit.

The PTC-ACBET team met with college officials, faculty members, students, alumni, industry partners, and university offices involved in the programs. The team also reviewed the college's teaching and research laboratories, which give students access to industry-standard software such as Midas and ArcGIS.

A closing program marked the end of the onsite visit. It was attended by the PTC-ACBET assessment team, university officials, college administrators, faculty members, and representatives of the offices involved. In their remarks, the assessors cited the openness of the PUP community, collaborative culture, and the industry-responsive design of its programs.

The college will submit its response reports within the periods set by PTC-ACBET. The Engineering Accreditation Commission will evaluate the submissions, and PTC will issue the final accreditation decision. PUP continues to undertake accreditation and quality assurance activities as part of its efforts to strengthen its academic programs and pursue greater international recognition, while also building on its vision to be a leading, comprehensive polytechnic university in Asia.

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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Tiongson, University Special Lecturer, Named National Artist for Literature

Thu, 17 Sep 2026 07:56:00 GMT

Jan Vincent Lanuza, News, Communication Management Office

The University congratulates Dr. Nicanor G. Tiongson, fondly known as Doc Nic, on his recent proclamation as a National Artist for Literature.

Through Proclamation No. 1414, released on September 1, the Philippine government officially recognized Tiongson’s invaluable contributions to Philippine literature, arts and culture, cementing his legacy as a pillar of the nation’s literary heritage and preservation.

The new National Artist shares a deep, collaborative history with the Sintang Paaralan. From 2021 to 2023, he served as a special lecturer, facilitating the Masterclass on the Philippine Arts at PUP: DESK and TP Seminar-Workshop. During this period, he taught the course “Sining at ang Kamalayang Pilipino” to PUP faculty and staff across all campuses, significantly deepening the university community’s appreciation for the Filipino heritage and critical cultural discourse.

Beyond his lectures, he edited “Sining at Kamalayang Pilipino na Maka-Tao,” an anthology of essays authored by PUP faculty exploring various aspects of Filipino arts and media. Published by the PUP Research Institute for Culture and Language - Center for Philippine Studies (RICL-CPS), the book was critically acclaimed and emerged as a finalist for the 41st National Book Awards in 2024.

In addition, Tiongson is a professor emeritus of the University of the Philippines (UP) Film Institute and a former dean of the UP College of Media and Communication. He is also an artistic director and vice president of the Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP), as well as a founding member and former chair of the Manunuri ng Pelikulang Pilipino.

He authored “The Cinema of Manuel Conde,” “The Urian Anthology,” and “The Women of Malolos,” and edited the 10-volume CCP Encyclopedia of Philippine Art. He has also penned several plays, including "Pilipinas Circa 1907," "Basiila ng Malolos," "Noli at Fili Dekada 2000," and "Mabining Mandirigma."

This prestigious achievement reflects PUP's tireless dedication to elevating Filipino culture and the arts. By actively fostering meaningful partnerships with noted cultural and literary scholars like Dr. Tiongson, the University enriches the literary experience of the PUP Community, paving the way for a more culturally resilient Philippines.

Furthermore, this recognition supports United Nations Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 4—Quality Education through the implementation of literacy and cultural education programs. At the same time, the University advances SDG 11—Sustainable Cities and Communities by leveraging cultural initiatives to promote the inclusivity, safety, resilience, and sustainability of human settlements.

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ARCDO celebrates a decade of Career Fest, empowering student futures

Wed, 16 Sep 2026 08:55:00 GMT

Jan Vincent Lanuza, News, Communication Management Office

The Alumni Relations and Career Development Office (ARCDO) held the second and final leg of the annual Career Fest from September 9 and 11, 2026, at the PUP Gymnasium.

Reaching its first decade, the event aims to provide students and alumni with internship and employment opportunities, and the entire PUP community with government ID applications and renewal.

Featuring both public and private institutions, the event allowed the Iskolar ng Bayan to participate in seminars, talks, and one-stop-shop booths designed to assist attendees in identifying careers that best align with their undergraduate course, specialities, and interests. Each booth offered activities that help participants better understand the companies’ values, vision, mission, and workplace dynamics.

ARCDO Director and the Assistant to the Vice President for Student Affairs and Services (AVPSAS) Engr. Florinda H. Oquindo stated that the secret to this Career Fest’s sustained success as it reached its first decade in existence are as follows: establishing reciprocal connections with industry partners, collaborative communication, thorough and proactive event preparation, the initiative to consistently provide quality services to clients, the need to address the academe-industry gap, and a commitment to fulfilling the enrollment-to-meaningful employment (E2E) framework for the Iskolar ng Bayan.

“The mission is always driven by a powerful truth: we cannot walk this path alone. In everything we do, our partners are always by our side. Every milestone we have achieved, every program we have launched, and every opportunity we have opened for our students and alumni are deeply rooted in our collaboration with our industry partners,” Oquindo said.

“They are not just supporters; they are the cornerstone of our day-to-day operations and our long-term vision,” she added.

Conversing with several Iskolar ng Bayan reflect the impact of the Career Fest on their career aspirations. Ashanti Medina, a graduating Bachelor of Technology and Livelihood Education major in Industrial Arts (BTLEDIA) student noted the event’s light atmosphere and the participating industry partners’ hospitality enabled her to discover possible career trajectories and hiring possibilities. To her, the occasion provided her a convenient route, giving her the space to submit application forms to various companies where she wishes to work.

Meanwhile, Hannah and Marjorie, both 4th Year Bachelor of Science in Cooperative Management, supported Medina’s sentiment. They noted that the industry partners’ friendly and approachable demeanor, along with their openness to answer all employment queries, helped widen their career opportunities and ease their pre-graduation jitters of applying for their first job.

“For the students, magandang um-attend sa Career Fest kasi mabo-broaden nito ang knowledge nila, mas lumalawak ang mga work na pwede nilang makita rito.” Hannah urged.

(For the students, it is highly recommended to attend the Career Fest because it will broaden their knowledge and expand the range of job opportunities they can discover there.

The industry partners, meanwhile, disclosed their reasons for enthusiastically joining the Career Fest. Joaquin Feliciano, University Relations Partner for the Manila Electric Company (MERALCO), praised the Sintang Paaralan as one of the better universities in the country, noting that PUPian graduates possess innate qualities that cannot be taught, as well as a strong drive to succeed.

The annual Career Fest highlighted PUP’s efforts to advance its goal of promoting career development initiatives for the Iskolar ng Bayan, further expanding opportunities for its students. With its successful facilitation, the University reaffirmed its role as a transformative institution that nurtures the potential of the Iskolar ng Bayan while fostering partnerships that advance sustainable and inclusive employment. The initiative supports the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 8—Decent Work and Economic Growth—by promoting accessible, fair, and productive opportunities for all, as well as SDG 17—Partnerships for the Goals—through collaborative efforts that drive shared progress toward sustainability.

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PUP OUS offers new micro-credential, certificate and diploma programs

Wed, 16 Sep 2026 08:44:00 GMT

Elaine Carie A. Andres, Press Release, Communication Management Office

The Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP) Open University System (OUS) is now accepting applications for six (6) new professional certificate and diploma programs through its Institute of Continuing Professional Development (ICPD).

Newly opened programs are as follows:

Program	Duration
Professional Certificate Program in Applied Artificial Intelligence	4 to 6 weeks (60 hours)
Professional Diploma in Green and Digital Construction	6 months (24 weeks / 240 hours)
Professional Diploma in Materials Engineering	6 months (24 weeks / 480 hours)
Professional Diploma in Applied Nuclear Science	6 months (24 weeks / 480 hours)
Professional Diploma in Applied Semiconductor Technology	6 months (24 weeks)
Professional Diploma in Supply Chain Management and Logistics	6 months (24 weeks / 480 hours)

Slots are limited to 25 to 30 learners per cohort to keep class sizes small and laboratory work manageable

Interested applicants may inquire the Institute for requirements, schedules, and cohort details.

Email: icpd@pup.edu.ph
Telephone: (02) 5335-1PUP (5335-1787) or (02) 5335-1777 local 3274
Office: Institute of Continuing Professional Development, 4/F NALLRC Building, PUP A. Mabini Campus, Anonas Street, Sta. Mesa, Manila 1016
Website: www.pup.edu.ph

Contact details are as listed on the PUP OUS contact page and the ICPD contact page.

Spearheading polytechnic initiatives

The programs form part of the University's micro-credentialing initiative: short-term, competency-based, and stackable over time. Credits earned may also be recognized toward higher academic qualifications.

Each program combines hands-on laboratory training with an industry-based curriculum. The six offerings artificial intelligence, sustainable construction, materials engineering, nuclear science, semiconductors and logistics.

"PUP is investing in stackable micro-credentials to empower the Filipino workforce with industry-relevant, future-ready competencies that can be earned progressively and recognized toward higher academic qualifications… (which) supports lifelong learning, workforce upskilling, and career mobility while responding to the evolving needs of industries in the Philippines and the global labor market," said Dr. Maynes-Blanco, Director of the PUP OUS Institute of Continuing Professional Development.

Maynes-Blanco said the programs are intended for working professionals, government employees, industry practitioners, entrepreneurs, career shifters, recent graduates and individuals pursuing continuous professional development. These learners need flexible and accessible study options and may not be ready to commit to a full degree program.

The Institute's micro-credential programs comply with CHED Memorandum Order No. 1, series of 2025, which sets the guidelines for micro-credential development, approval, and recognition in higher education, as with Republic Act 10912, the Continuing Professional Development Act of 2016.

About the Polytechnic University of the Philippines

Angelo G. Acedera, agacedera@pup.edu.ph

Elaine Carie A. Andres, ecaandres@pup.edu.ph

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DFM Students Secure National Runner-Up Finish in ASEAN ESG Challenge 2026

Mon, 14 Sep 2026 20:44:00 GMT

Gicel Roger Salvilla, News, Communication Management Office

_{Photo courtesy by: Securities and Exchange Commission Philippines ‘Official’ Facebook Page.}

Student delegates from the Department of Financial Management (DFM) earned national recognition after three teams advanced to the Top 10 of the ASEAN ESG Challenge 2026 – Philippine Championship, with Green Fund Partners securing the 1st Runner-Up position and bringing home a total of PHP 60,000 in prizes.

Composed of Deanna Margaret B. Baldosa, Frank Errol Y. Enriquez, and Elaizabeth R. Nucum, all students taking the Bachelor of Science in Business Administration major in Financial Management (BSBA FM), Green Fund Partners placed second nationally and received a PHP 50,000 prize. Also advancing to the National Top 10 were Vera Verde, composed of Marjorie Cabato, Jhamae Trisha De Guia, and Justin Paul Canilang, and Banaag ReGen, composed of Bart Patrick Familar, Jio Antonio Lazaro, and Daphney Rose Santos. Both teams likewise earned PHP 5,000 each.

_{Photo courtesy by: Securities and Exchange Commission Philippines ‘Official’ Facebook Page.}

The teams navigated a series of challenges, from an online examination and concept note submission to case study development, presentation, and the final boardroom simulation. For Green Fund Partners, the journey was defined by continuous learning, adjustment, and perseverance. Baldosa described their experience as a “gradual process of learning, adjusting, and becoming more confident in our own work,” noting that the competition required them to move beyond understanding ESG concepts and consider how their recommendations could work in practice.

Behind the national finish were moments of uncertainty and self-doubt. Enriquez recalled feeling overwhelmed from the early stages of the competition and questioning whether their team could compete against students from established universities. Reaching the Top 10, he said, brought relief after their “sleepless nights of reviews and information overload,” while advancing to the Top 5 gave the team another opportunity to prove themselves.

Nucum likewise reflected on the sacrifices required throughout the competition, particularly the time and effort devoted to preparation. For her, securing the podium finish made “all the 28 hours worth of meeting” worthwhile, turning the challenges and sacrifices into a milestone for the team.

The pressure extended beyond the case study itself, making teamwork essential to the team’s progress. Baldosa shared that one of their biggest challenges was “managing the pressure while making sure that the quality of our analysis did not suffer.” Through open discussions, constructive criticism, and trust in one another’s strengths, the team learned that “teamwork is not about having all the answers, it is about building something stronger together.”

For Enriquez, the support of his teammates proved especially important during difficult moments. Despite the pressure and unexpected challenges during the final stages, he credited his teammates for encouraging him to continue. “I can’t emphasize enough how grateful I am to have my teammates with me,” he shared, emphasizing the strength he drew from the people who stood beside him throughout the competition.

The students also attributed their performance to the academic preparation and mentorship provided by DFM. Baldosa cited the department’s Research and Feasibility Study activities as part of the technical foundation that prepared them for the competition, while the coaches’ feedback helped strengthen their analysis, presentation, and confidence in defending their recommendations. Enriquez similarly recognized the faculty and coaches who continuously challenged their ideas and helped them prepare for the competition.

The delegation expressed its appreciation to Head Coach Gem B. Galupar, Christian Neil A. Ramos, Dr. Antonette G. Belago, Dr. Elizabeth F. Perez, Jorge Edward Chang, and alumni coaches Frances San Juan and Laujen Joy Endozo for their guidance and support throughout the competition.

Beyond the awards, the students hope their experience encourages fellow PUPians to take opportunities despite uncertainty. Baldosa urged fellow students “not to be afraid to start before you feel ready,” while Enriquez offered a direct message to those struggling with self-doubt: “JUST TRY. JUST DO IT.” Nucum likewise encouraged her fellow PUPians to “never stop aiming for the best” and to seize opportunities to achieve bigger things.

_{Photo courtesy by: Securities and Exchange Commission Philippines ‘Official’ Facebook Page.}

The achievement highlights PUP students’ ability to translate academic learning into practical solutions for sustainability and financial challenges while embodying the University’s Core Values of Integrity, an Excellence. It likewise advances the UN Sustainable Development Goals, particularly SDG 4 (Quality Education), SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure), SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production), SDG 13 (Climate Action), and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals) through skills-based learning, responsible financial practices, innovation, sustainability-conscious decision-making, and collaboration among students, faculty, coaches, and alumni.

With three teams advancing to the national Top 10 and Green Fund Partners finishing as 1st Runner-Up, the DFM delegates have marked a significant milestone for the department and demonstrated that PUPians can compete, innovate, and create meaningful impact in pursuit of a more sustainable and responsible future.

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Alignment and continuous support yield top finishes in September 2026 LCBLE

Mon, 14 Sep 2026 20:32:00 GMT

Jan Vincent Lanuza, News, Communication Management Office

Sintang Paaralan continues its tradition of excellence in licensure examinations, ranking among the top-performing institutions and producing a topnotcher in the September 2026 Librarians Computer-Based Licensure Examination.

According to the results released by the Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) on September 7, PUP Sta. Mesa Campus ranked 7th among 94 participating universities and colleges, posting a 90.24% passing rate, with 37 out of 41 examinees successfully passing the examination.

Adding to the University’s achievement, Ryu Saguiped of PUP Sta. Mesa Campus secured the 9th spot among the topnotchers, earning an impressive 91.25% rating in the licensure examination.

The Secret to Success: Alignment and Continuous Support

Dr. Rhodora R. Julian, Chairperson of the Department of Library and Information Sciences (DLIS) of the College of Education (COED) expressed pride in this distinction, noting that it represents the dedication of the entire PUP Community who played an integral part in preparing the licensure examination takers.

“This achievement reflects the dedication of our graduates, the LLE takers, our alumni who helped us in the review sessions, the student organization who assisted us during the review sessions in terms of technical aspects, the commitment of our faculty members and the strong support of the college and the university.” She said.

“It only shows that our department, through our faculty members, consistently provides quality education and effective preparation for the professional practice of librarianship.” Julian added.

The DLIS chairperson shared key strategies that enabled better preparations towards aspiring librarians: the integration of the PRC-Table of Specifications (PRC-TOS) into the course syllabus and assessment to ensure its alignment with the commission’s objectives. She further added that the department facilitated free review sessions a month before the exam, with its faculty members and alumni serving as review masters.

Julian congratulated the new PUPian licensed librarians for their hard work, sacrifices, and diligence, noting that this only shows the University’s commitment in producing competent and successful professionals who can meet the national standards and contribute to the development of the library and information science profession.

‘The program chose me’

For Saguiped, this victory reflected his passion and genuine love for the field. He shared that this program “chose me more than me choosing it as a path of my career.”

“It was only a product of my genuine curiosity that led me to discover the vast beauty of information services that transcend not just within the four corners of the library, but also to the various industries that drive information for progress, innovation, and success,” the topnotcher stated.

He then credited the BLIS program and the Sintang Paaralan with allowing him to explore the different aspects of librarianship and to understand its crucial impact in an evolving information society, particularly in the country. Now a practicing librarian, he said that all the theoretical foundations of library science he gained from the University are being “translated into meaningful services such as managing resources, assisting users, and handling instructional programs.”

Saguiped added: “Being a PUPian taught me to be resilient, to make the most out of what you have and transform this into a force for productivity and development. They made me appreciate it even more because the field of librarianship connects people with information and further the advancement of a community who are well educated and critical thinkers.”

Addressing the aspiring librarians of the Sintang Paaralan, he spoke of three guiding principles: be seen, be bold, and be triumphant, as PUPians challenge themselves in achieving more than they expected of themselves.

“To my fellow BLISkolars and aspiring librarians, I hope that you are not just after passing the board and getting your license. I hope that you are also ready to embody the mandate of the librarianship profession. I hope you are ready to protect information integrity, expand its accessibility, and nurture its availability. Together, let us build our libraries and information centers as powerful institutions of knowledge, growth, and development.”

This outstanding showing in the September 2026 LCBLE underscores the Sintang Paaralan’s dedication to developing skilled, practice-ready librarians who embody the ideals of the Sintang Paaralan. The accomplishment also supports the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), especially SDG 4 (Quality Education), through PUP's delivery of inclusive, accessible quality education.

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Parañaque Campus Faculty Earns Best Paper Award at Globe Summit

Fri, 11 Sep 2026 10:42:00 GMT

Catherine R. Llave, News, Communication Management Office

PUP Parañaque Campus strengthened its international research engagement as it co-organized the 3rd Globe Summit Global Leadership in Hospitality and Tourism Management held on September 5, 2026, in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

In partnership with the Academia Research Lab and Central Philippines State University, the summit brought together faculty members and student researchers from various countries to present studies and exchange insights on emerging trends and issues in the hospitality and tourism industry.

Representing the University, Inst. Rodel Mendoza of the PUP Parañaque Campus earned the Best Paper Presenter Award for his research, “Tourism Competitiveness of Parañaque City: Challenges, Opportunities, and Development Strategies for a Sustainable Tourism Development.” The study examined key challenges and opportunities in strengthening Parañaque City’s tourism competitiveness toward sustainable tourism development.

Meanwhile, Assoc. Prof. Sheyl Sharima Morales of the PUP Taguig Campus delivered the welcome remarks during the opening program, representing the University in the international gathering.

The summit concluded with participants committing to advance research and collaboration on emerging trends and advocacies in the hospitality and tourism industry. PUP’s participation as co-organizer and the recognition received by its faculty highlight the University’s continuing efforts to advance research excellence, international collaboration, and service to communities and industries.

The initiative supports SDG 4: Quality Education, SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth, SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities, and SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals through research, sustainable tourism development, knowledge exchange, and international collaboration. It likewise reflects PUP’s core values of Integrity, Excellence, and Service through responsible scholarship, academic excellence, and research responsive to community and industry needs.

Article edited by: Gicel Roger B. Salvilla, Communication Management Office

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Meralco Power Academy Strengthens Industry-Ready Career Pathways for Students

Fri, 11 Sep 2026 10:29:00 GMT

Adam Christopher C. Brown, News, Communication Management Office

The Alumni Relations and Career Development Office (ARCDO) facilitated the Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) Signing between the University and the Meralco Power Academy (MPA) on September 3, 2026, at the ARCDO Conference Room, PUP Sampaguita Building. The partnership solidifies both institutions’ shared vision to advance industry readiness, technical immersion, and career opportunities for students.

Key University officials attended the signing, led by Vice President for Student Affairs and Services Tomas O. Testor and ARCDO Director Florinda H. Oquindo. The MPA delegation was spearheaded by Executive Director Ian Chester V. Colorina, alongside Angelica Estrella and Kathleen Kristy Dorico.

In his remarks, Vice President Testor underscored the vital role of robust academe-industry partnerships in enhancing student capabilities and contributing to national community development.

Reaffirming their institutional support, MPA Executive Director Colorina highlighted initiatives such as internships, specialized power bootcamps offering accelerated tracks for top-performing students, and the MPowHER scholarship—a component of Meralco’s #MBrace gender diversity initiative that provides full grants, allowances, and career pathways for female electrical engineering students.

The expanded agreement notably widens its scope beyond the Sta. Mesa Campus to encompass PUP’s expanding satellite campuses nationwide, democratizing access to MPA’s specialized industry modules and training pipelines.

In her closing remarks, College of Engineering Dean Engr. Remedios G. Ado expressed her gratitude to MPA and shared her optimism that the collaboration will produce meaningful outcomes for the wider community.

The partnership aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 4: Quality Education, SDG 5: Gender Equality, SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth, and SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals. Through these initiatives, PUP and MPA embody the university core values of Excellence, Integrity and Accountability, and Sense of Service, reinforcing the delivery of responsive and inclusive public education.

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