Polytechnic University of the Philippines

Financial Management Students Place Second in BPI FinQuest 2026

Wed, 28 Oct 2026 12:18:00 GMT

Gicel Roger Salvilla, News, Communication Management Office

_{Photo courtesy of: Deanna Margaret B. Baldosa}

Composed of four Bachelor of Science in Business Administration major in Financial Management students—Deanna Margaret B. Baldosa, Precious Samantha G. Alano, Veronica Nicole L. Dimaya, and Zyrus I. Orgen—Capitalyst Partners secured second place among 50 investment fund proposals submitted nationwide with its BPI Future Starter Fund. The team received a ?50,000 cash prize and ?3,000 worth of investment credits for each member.

The team was guided by faculty coaches Asst. Prof. Prince Guillan D. Cruz, Asst. Prof. Gem B. Galupar, and Dr. Antonette Belago, alongside alumni coaches Ms. Rachelyn Patello, Ms. Jhonna Lien Elorde, and Mr. Raven Salguero.

The proposed unit investment trust fund (UITF) targets Generation Z and first-time investors, featuring a minimum initial investment of ?500 and a diversified portfolio allocation of 60% equities and 40% fixed-income instruments. Beyond investment returns, the proposal emphasizes financial education and consistent investing to help young Filipinos develop sustainable financial habits.

As one of the competition’s Top 5 finalist teams, Capitalyst Partners underwent a month of mentoring sessions with BPI Wealth employees to refine its proposal ahead of the live defense and awarding ceremony. The team received guidance from lead mentor Ms. Janina Angelique Lapuz, alongside subject matter experts Ms. Jocelyn Duhaylungsod for investment, Ms. Frances Alexandra Fernandez for marketing, and Mr. Jose Edru Urcia for customer journey.

_{Photo courtesy of: Deanna Margaret B. Baldosa}

For team captain Deanna Margaret B. Baldosa, one of the biggest challenges was bringing together members with different perspectives, schedules, and commitments while balancing academic requirements and on-the-job training (OJT).

“More than the opportunity to meet BPI and BPI Wealth executives and learn from industry mentors, what made this experience special was realizing that we were creating a product for people like us,” Baldosa shared.

Meanwhile, Precious Samantha G. Alano, for whom the competition was her first national-level experience, described the process as challenging but rewarding. Despite sleepless nights and difficulties managing academic requirements and OJT, she gained confidence through collaborating with her teammates, receiving industry mentorship, and presenting their proposal before a panel of judges.

“More importantly, this experience taught me to step out of my comfort zone, become more confident, and believe in my own abilities,” Alano said.

Veronica Nicole L. Dimaya highlighted the technical challenges of developing an investment fund that would be viable and relevant to young Filipinos. The process required the team to examine how the fund’s components would work together and support its intended objectives.

“This experience made me appreciate how much thought goes into creating a financial product and how important it is to understand the people it is meant to serve,” Dimaya shared.

For Zyrus I. Orgen, the competition became an opportunity to confront his fear of public speaking while competing against students from other universities. He credited his teammates, mentors, and coaches for helping him navigate the challenges of preparation and presentation.

“I am still not the most confident speaker, and I know I have a lot to work on, but this experience reminded me that my fears do not have to define what I can achieve,” Orgen said.

Following the competition, the team members expressed their commitment to applying their learnings and promoting financial literacy among young Filipinos. Baldosa hopes to continue learning from industry mentors and encourage financial literacy among her peers, while Alano aims to become more confident in investing and help other young people understand its importance. Dimaya plans to deepen her understanding of investments through experience, while Orgen hopes to use his growing knowledge of finance to make investing less intimidating and more accessible to others.

_{Photo courtesy of: Deanna Margaret B. Baldosa}

Another team from the University, Slayholders, also earned recognition as one of the competition’s Top 15 teams with its proposed SIBOL Adaptive Balanced Fund, which aims to make investing more accessible and goal-oriented for young Filipinos aged 18 to 25.

The achievement aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 4: Quality Education, through the application of financial management knowledge and the promotion of financial literacy; SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth, by encouraging young Filipinos to develop financial capabilities and explore opportunities for long-term financial growth; and SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities, through the team’s proposal to lower barriers to entry for young and first-time investors. The collaboration among students, faculty coaches, alumni, and industry mentors also reflects SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals, highlighting the value of academic and industry collaboration in developing practical financial solutions.

_{Photo courtesy of: Deanna Margaret B. Baldosa}

Through their participation in BPI FinQuest 2026, PUP students demonstrated how academic knowledge, collaboration, and financial innovation can contribute to financial literacy and more inclusive economic opportunities for the Filipino youth.

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MSD Offers Free Seminar and Screening, Promoting Cervical Cancer Prevention and HPV Awareness

Wed, 28 Oct 2026 12:08:00 GMT

Karylle Anne Cabugos, News, Communication Management Office

The Medical Services Department (MSD), in coordination with the Gender Equity, Diversity, and Social Inclusion Office (GEDSIO), conducted a seminar and free cervical screening on October 15, 2026 titled "Healthy Woman, Bright Future: Cervical Cancer Prevention and HPV Awareness" promoting women's health through awareness and early detection.

Anchored on the message "Early Detection is the Best Protection," the initiative aimed to raise awareness about cervical cancer, human papillomavirus (HPV), and the importance of regular screening in preventing and detecting the disease at an early stage..

The seminar took place from 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon at the Accenture Room, 4th Floor, East Wing of the PUP Main Building, Sta. Mesa Campus, Manila, followed by free cervical cancer screening from 1:30 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. at the Medical Clinic on the ground floor of the same building.

By combining health education with accessible screening services, the initiative encouraged members of the University community to take a more active role in protecting their health and making informed decisions about their well-being.

Dr. Donna Grace Cruz-Segador, MD, DPOGS, served as the resource speaker for the seminar, which focused on cervical cancer prevention and HPV awareness. Meanwhile, Dr. Helen C. Castro, MD, DPOGS, was designated as the cervical cancer screening provider, extending the initiative from health education to preventive medical care.

During the discussion, Cruz-Segador emphasized the importance of HPV vaccination and regular cervical cancer screening in reducing the risk of developing the disease. She also addressed common concerns about HPV prevention, explaining that vaccination provides significant protection but does not replace the need for regular screening.

For Dr. Mary Grace Roxas, Director of the Medical Services Department, the initiative highlighted the importance of taking preventive measures before health concerns become more serious.

"Let us remember that prevention begins with awareness and early detection that save lives,” Dr. Roxas emphasized.

Her message reinforced the purpose of the activity, reminding the University community that understanding health risks and seeking appropriate medical services are important steps toward cervical cancer prevention.

For Bachelor of Science in Business Administration major in Marketing Management (BSBA MM) student Angela Grace Sarmiento, the initiative highlighted the importance of raising awareness about cervical cancer and encouraging young women to prioritize their health through preventive care.

"Being young doesn't mean we should overlook our health, which is why understanding the risks and taking preventive measures early is important," Sarmiento shared.

The initiative reflects PUP's commitment to promoting a healthier and more informed University community by providing opportunities for health education and preventive services.

It also supports the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 3: Good Health and Well-Being, through cervical cancer prevention and early detection, and SDG 4: Quality Education, by raising awareness about HPV and preventive healthcare. It also aligns with SDG 5: Gender Equality by empowering women to make informed health decisions and SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities by providing free cervical cancer screening. Meanwhile, the collaboration between the Medical Services Department and GEDSIO reflects SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals, highlighting the University's commitment to accessible and inclusive healthcare. This also aligns with national efforts to promote women’s health under the Philippine Commission on Women (PCW).

Beyond the seminar and screening, the initiative serves as a reminder that protecting women's health begins with awareness and timely action. By encouraging early detection and preventive care, the program reinforces the importance of making informed health decisions and prioritizing women's well-being within the University community.

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UAC 2026 Begins with a Strong First Day of Academic Competition

Wed, 28 Oct 2026 12:04:00 GMT

Aella Marie Pusod, News, Communication Management Office

Sintang Paaralan once again ignited the flame of academic excellence with the opening of the University Academic Contests (UAC) 2026 on October 15 at Bulwagang Balagtas, NALLRC, Sta. Mesa Campus. The event brought together undergraduate and Laboratory High School students across the PUP System, for a series of quiz bees marking the University’s 122nd Founding Anniversary.

Anchored on the theme “Dunong at Kahusayan, Para sa Bayan!”, the competition reminded every participant that knowledge finds its truest purpose when it is shared, applied and offered in service to others. The UAC 2026 becomes a space where PUPians transform their classroom learning and knowledge into collaboration and leadership.

The opening day featured three quiz bees, with the College of Science (CS) securing two championships in General Information and Social Sciences, while the College of Arts and Letters (CAL) topped the Philippine History, Culture, and the Arts competition.

The General Information Quiz Bee set an exciting tone for the day. The College of Science (CS) claimed the championship with 21 points, narrowly ahead of PUP Taguig with 20 points and the College of Education (COED) with 19 points. With only two points separating the top three teams, the contest remained close until the final questions.

The Philippine History, Culture, and the Arts Quiz Bee then brought the competition closer to the nation’s story. The College of Arts and Letters (CAL) won with 16 points, followed by PUP Laboratory High School in second place and PUP Sto. Tomas in third.

The Social Sciences Quiz Bee delivered the day’s most suspenseful finish. The College of Science secured the championship with 38 points, while PUP Laboratory High School placed second with 36 points. The College of Education and the College of Engineering and Architecture both finished with 34 points, leading to a tense tiebreaker for third place. The College of Education ultimately won the tiebreaker and claimed the final spot on the podium.

Beyond the rankings, UAC 2026 highlighted the dedication, perseverance, and pursuit of excellence that drive every participant. The competition also featured a trophy inspired by PUP’s logo, symbolizing the hard work and determination behind every achievement—from hours of preparation for the courage to compete and the pride of bringing honor to the University.

The opening day marked the beginning of UAC 2026, which will run until October 27. On October 16, students will compete in the Basic Mathematics, Basic Statistics, General Science, and Information and Communication Technology Quiz Bees. The contests will then shift to written and oral expression, with Essay Writing and Pagsulat ng Sanaysay scheduled for October 22, followed by Extemporaneous Speaking and Dagliang Talumpati on October 23.

The debate competition will also unfold across several dates: the pre-debate conference on October 17; the elimination round on October 24; and the semifinals and final round on October 27. Each event offers another stage for PUPians to sharpen their ideas, express their convictions, and demonstrate the values that define a true Iskolar ng Bayan.

Aligned with Sustainable Development Goal 4: Quality Education, UAC 2026 underscores the role of academic competitions in supporting learning and developing students’ knowledge and skills. Through this competition, PUP continues to encourage its students to pursue academic excellence and use their capabilities in service of the Filipino people.

For the UAC schedule and leaderboards updates, visit: https://tinyurl.com/pvh66byh

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PUP launches First National Summit on Polytechnic Education in the Philippines

Fri, 16 Oct 2026 13:16:00 GMT

PUP Sta. Mesa, Manila, Press Release, Communication Management Office

The Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP) launched the first National Summit on Polytechnic Education in the Philippines on October 14, 2026 at the Heritage Hotel, with national agencies and lawmakers calling for stronger support to polytechnic education to bridge theory with skills and practice. Carrying the theme "Igniting the Future," the three-day summit brings together polytechnic institutions from across the country and the ASEAN region.

Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) Director-General Jose Francisco “Kiko” Benitez delivered his keynote address emphasizing that proven ability and practical problem-solving matter more than diplomas and transcripts.

Other notable speakers include Education Undersecretary Dr. Rafaelita M. Aldaba, ASEAN AI Council Chair Dr. Ethel Agnes Pascua-Valenzuela, President of Technical-Vocational Schools Association Fr. Onofre "Jun" G. Inocencio Jr., SDB, and Philippine Normal University President Dr. Bert J. Tuga.

PUP President Dr. Manuel Muhi completed the lineup to share the century-old experience of the Polytechnic University of the Philippines. He underscored that “polytechnics are integral to achieving and sustaining national development as embodied by the PUP experience, hence the significant value of the work we do today.”

"Our purpose is clear: to build an educational ecosystem where knowledge serves communities, research solves real problems, and our greatest measure of success is the public value we create," said Dr. Anna Ruby P. Gapasin, Chair of the Polytechnic Education Summit and PUP Vice President for Research, Extension and Development.

By the end of the summit on October 16, participants are expected to produce a Polytechnic Education Framework for Philippine Higher Education aligned with ASEAN standards, an Articulation Guide, and a National Implementation Roadmap for 2027 to 2030. The event is also part of the month-long celebration of PUP’s 122^nd Founding Anniversary.

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

View this article in PUPWebSite

VISTA Games 2026 Advances Inclusive Sports through "Forward Together, Beyond Sight"

Fri, 16 Oct 2026 13:15:00 GMT

Rencyliann Macorol, News, College of Human Kinetics

Sports became a platform for inclusion as the 13th Visually Impaired Sports and Training Advocacy (VISTA) Games 2026 brought together visually impaired students and participants from various schools and organizations for a day of adaptive sports and shared experiences on September 19, 2026, at PUP Sta. Mesa Campus.

Carrying the theme “VISTA @13: Forward Together, Beyond Sight,” the event promoted meaningful participation in sports among individuals with visual impairments across the Low Vision, Multiple Disabilities and Visual Impairment (MDVI), and Totally Blind categories.

The event was spearheaded by the College of Human Kinetics (CHK) Dean and Overall Chair, Dr. Geraldine C. Miñas, together with Department of Sports Science Chairperson and Project Leader, Dr. Heildenberg C. Dimarucot, and the Parent Advocates for Visually Impaired Children, Inc. (PAVIC) President Rodel Torres, alongside CHK faculty members, student volunteers, and partner organizations.

Participants in the event included:

Angeles Elementary School Inclusive Learning Resource Center (ILRC)
Antipolo City SPED Center
Bagong Silang Elementary School
Batino Elementary School SPED Center
Cecilio Apostol Elementary School
De Castro Elementary School
Philippine National School for the Blind
Quirino High School
San Pablo City Delegates
Sta. Ana Elementary School
Sta. Lucia High School
Team PAVIC

The event featured goalball, where players roll a bell-filled rubber ball across an indoor court; adaptive swimming, where athletes are assisted by a guide and a series of verbal cues; athletics, featuring long jump, 50-meter sprint, and shot put; chess, showdown, and lead-up games. These activities allowed participants with visual impairments to engage through adapted methods, including auditory and tactile cues.

For Sister Pauline and Sunshine, one of the participants in athletics, they felt the welcoming and inclusive atmosphere that both the University and its volunteers have exuded throughout the whole event.

“I really enjoyed [it]. It was my first time, and I was really looking forward [to] how are you going to manage to lead the blind but I realized that you really have experience because the preparation was good and also, the blind were comfortable,” the South African nun stated.

Meanwhile, Federico Arzadon, CHK Faculty and PUP Sports Management Society (PUP SMS) Adviser and Swimming tournament Chair, emphasized that the VISTA Games should prioritize the participants’ experience rather than competition alone.

“The focus should remain on the participants' enjoyment and experience rather than strict competition,” Arzadon said.

Beyond the competition area, the VISTA Games also provide CHK students– particularly third and fourth-year Bachelor of Science in Exercise and Sports Sciences (BSESS) majors– with experience in facilitating adaptive physical activities and creating safe and welcoming environments for individuals with diverse needs.

For third-year student volunteer Keanne Tanteo, witnessing the participants complete activities and experiencing joy made the event more meaningful.

“Seeing them accomplish the task even though they have a guide, seeing their joy, it makes you smile,” Tanteo said.

The event also underscored the importance of changing perceptions towards disability as Parent Advocates for Visually Impaired Children, Inc. (PAVIC) President Mr. Rodel Torres emphasized during his speech at the opening ceremonies, reminding participants and organizers:

“We may not be able to change our child’s disability, but we can change the way we see disability,”

Since its inaugural edition in 2009 at the Philsports Arena (formerly known as Ultra), to subsequent editions at the Marikina Sports Center, and now at PUP for its 13th edition, the VISTA Games has provided children, students, and athletes across different regions of the country with opportunities to discover their abilities, develop their skills, and reach their potential through sports.

For Dr. Dimarucot, inclusion should be integrated into everyday practice rather than treated as an extraordinary act, emphasizing that sports and physical activity should be accessible to everyone.

“You don't need to sensationalize that we can help. It has to be the norm… Probably, we cannot change the world right now. But changing someone’s world is more than enough,” Dimarucot said.

The principles demonstrated through VISTA extend beyond the event itself, reinforcing that sports and fitness should be accessible to everyone. Through the VISTA Games, CHK continues to advance its advocacy of “Liksi ay para sa lahat,” creating spaces where everyone can participate, learn, develop their abilities, and experience a sense of belonging regardless of disability or impairment.

This commitment contributes to Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 3: Good Health and Well-being, through the promotion of physical activity; SDG 4: Quality Education, through experiential learning and inclusive sports education; and SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities, by providing meaningful opportunities for persons with disabilities to participate in sports and community activities.

Anchored in the University's core values of Inclusivity, Respect for Human Rights and the Environment, and Excellence, CHK continues to uphold its commitment to making sports and physical activity accessible to all—moving forward together, beyond sight.

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

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HEIs sign pledge to form national polytechnic network

Fri, 16 Oct 2026 13:09:00 GMT

PUP Sta. Mesa, Manila, Press Release, Communication Management Office

Higher education institutions signed a Pledge of Commitment and a Framework Agreement establishing the Philippine Polytechnic Education Network (PhilPEN) during the second day of the National Summit on Polytechnic Education in the Philippines, October 15, 2026, Heritage Hotel, Pasay City.

Convened by the Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP), the voluntary network covers cooperation in academic programs, research and extension, quality management, and resource sharing. Member institutions keep their autonomy, while specific projects will be covered by a separate memoranda of agreement.

Commission on Higher Education (CHED) Chairperson Dr. Shirley C. Agrupis, in her keynote, discussed the Philippine Credit Transfer System and the recognition of prior learning for workers with five years of experience. She said the instrument of accession to the Tokyo Convention in October 2025 is being prepared for deposit with UNESCO.

PUP President Dr. Manuel M. Muhi urged delegates to turn the summit's lessons into commitments, in line with the ASEAN 2026 theme "Navigating Our Future, Together."

Speakers from Singapore, Malaysia, and Indonesia shared their polytechnic models. Mr. Hiromichi Katayama of UNESCO Jakarta discussed implementing curriculum design and regional credit transfer. Dr. Lim Teng Leng of Temasek Polytechnic presented Singapore's industry partnerships and Centers of Excellence. Dr. Nur Ilyani Idris of Universiti Poly-Tech Malaysia cited her country's goal of raising ten polytechnics to premier status by 2027. President Sandra Yap Dianggorobles of SSR Politeknik described Indonesia's shift to one-year internships.

Department of Science and Technology National Capital Region Director Romelen T. Tresvalles asked schools to measure research by its use in industry and communities. Engr. Jerry Webb E. Muhi of Dual Technology pushed for co-designed curricula and apprenticeships. Indonesian Ministry of Industry Deputy Director Setyoko Pramono presented in-company training for Industry 4.0 and electric vehicles.

The summit closes on October 16 with the presentation and launch of the Philippine Polytechnic Education Framework.

About the Polytechnic University of the Philippines

For media inquiries, partnership opportunities, and updates, please visit www.pup.edu.ph or contact theUniversity 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

View this article in PUPWebSite

PUP WIRED Earns first Energy Inventor Award from DOE

Fri, 16 Oct 2026 13:08:00 GMT

Gicel Roger Salvilla, News, Communication Management Office

_{Photo courtesy of: PUP Wired ‘Official’ FB Page}

PUP Wired received the first Energy Inventor Award from the Department of Energy (DOE) during the Philippine Energy Awards on October 7, 2026, at Museo del Galeón. The recognition honors the team’s contribution to advancing innovation and sustainability in the Philippine energy sector through its autonomous battery-electric vehicle, SIDLAK 2.

Representing the University, Engr. Benson G. Pulga, lead adviser of PUP Wired, received the award on behalf of the President Dr. Manuel M. Muhi together with the delegates of the Shell Eco-marathon Europe 2026. The recognition underscored the collective efforts of the students, faculty advisers, partners, alumni, and supporters who contributed to the development of SIDLAK 2 and its participation in an international engineering competition.

_{Photo courtesy of: PUP Wired ‘Official’ FB Page}

Before receiving the national recognition, PUP Wired represented the Philippines at the Shell Eco-marathon Europe 2026 in Kamien Slaski, Poland, held on June 24–28, 2026. Competing in the Autonomous Driving Prototype Category, the team became the second to pass the competition’s rigorous Technical and Safety Inspection. It subsequently secured eighth place overall in the Autonomous Driving Competition, competing alongside international university teams, including University College London and Cairo University.

As the sole Philippine representative in the competition, PUP Wired demonstrated the capabilities of Filipino engineering students in developing innovative solutions for sustainable mobility. At the center of its entry was the first version of SIDLAK, an autonomous battery-electric vehicle designed and developed by the team. The project reflects the students’ commitment to engineering efficiency, resourcefulness, and environmentally responsible innovation.

The team's journey—from developing the prototype at the University to competing on the international stage and receiving national recognition—demonstrates the value of experiential learning and student-led research and development. It also highlights how academic institutions can provide opportunities for students to translate engineering concepts into practical solutions that respond to contemporary energy and environmental challenges.

Beyond the achievement, the Energy Inventor Award affirms the potential of young Filipino innovators to contribute to the country’s transition toward a more sustainable energy future. Through initiatives such as SIDLAK 2, PUP Wired continues to demonstrate how collaboration, technical expertise, and purpose-driven innovation can extend learning beyond the classroom and create opportunities for meaningful impact.

The achievement supports the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy), SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure), SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities), and SDG 13 (Climate Action). By advancing electric vehicle technology and promoting energy-conscious engineering, PUP Wired contributes to broader efforts to encourage sustainable mobility and strengthen innovation in the Philippines.

The recognition reflects the University’s continuing commitment to excellence, innovation, and service to the nation, embodying its core values of Passion for Learning and Innovation and Excellence. Through the ingenuity and determination of its student innovators, the University continues to advance its mission of developing competent, socially responsible, and globally competitive graduates who contribute to nation-building.

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GIA Summit 2026 Bridges Sectors for Responsible AI Adoption and Governance

Fri, 16 Oct 2026 13:03:00 GMT

Aella Marie Pusod And Karylle Anne Cabugos, News, Communication Management Office

The University held its fourth Government–Industry–Academe (GIA) Summit 2026 on October 7–8 at Bulwagang Balagtas, NALLRC, Sta. Mesa Campus, bringing together educators, industry leaders, government representatives, alumni, and students to discuss artificial intelligence (AI) regulation, its effects on employment and professional practice, and the need for responsible governance.

Organized by the Alumni Relations and Career Development Office (ARCDO), the summit carried the theme “AI Regulation, Governance, and Alignment: Bridging the Industries to the Academe.” Discussions focused on how schools, businesses, and government agencies can prepare Filipinos for AI adoption while protecting human judgment, expanding access to opportunities, and maintaining accountability.

Vice President for Student Affairs and Services Tomas O. Testor set the direction during the opening program, emphasizing that AI should expand human capabilities rather than diminish them.

“Let us build a future where AI does not replace human potential but instead elevates it, safely and responsibly for every Filipino student and every working citizen,” Testor said.

AI adoption and the limits of automation

The first day examined the implications of placing AI in systems that influence people’s access to information, services, and opportunities. In her keynote address, Engr. Nicole Abejuela, Principal Engineer at the Department of Science and Technology’s Metals Industry Research and Development Center (DOST-MIRDC), emphasized that people are not merely users of AI but also bear the consequences of how it is designed and applied.

“We are not just passive subjects; we are the beneficiaries or, if negative, then we will be the victims,” Abejuela said.

Her remarks underscored the stakes of AI adoption: when automated systems influence decisions, the people affected must not be excluded from discussions about their use. Efficiency alone cannot establish whether a system is appropriate, particularly when its outputs may affect people’s access to services or opportunities.

During the forum with the audience, Maria Cristina C. Hermoso, Human Resources Manager of Bubble Gum Interactive Games, pointed out the need to guide technological change through responsible innovation rather than fear or unquestioning reliance.

These discussions placed human judgment at the center of AI adoption. Although AI can generate responses or perform tasks, people must still evaluate its outputs, understand their limitations, and remain accountable for decisions made with its assistance.

Preparing workers and institutions for AI

The second day extended the discussion to professional, educational, and institutional conditions that shape AI adoption.

Deloitte Philippines Business Tax Leader Senen M. Quizon examined the risk of “cognitive offloading,” in which people rely on AI to perform mental tasks that they would otherwise undertake themselves. Excessive dependence can weaken critical thinking when users accept generated answers without examining their accuracy.

The challenge, therefore, extends beyond knowing how to operate AI tools. Workers must also determine when these tools are appropriate, recognize their limitations, and verify their outputs before applying them in practice. Principal Architect of Arki Ara Design Mary Rolyn Ara T. Angeles reinforced this distinction in discussing AI’s applications in architecture and education.

“Every technological advancement changes the way we work, but it does not automatically eliminate the knowledge and responsibilities,” Angeles said.

Her discussion highlighted the continuing importance of professional expertise and accountability. While AI may transform established workflows, it does not absolve professionals of their responsibility to evaluate outputs, exercise sound judgment, and uphold the standards of their respective fields.

Beyond professional competence, the growing adoption of AI also raises questions about whether Filipinos have equitable access to the education and training needed to participate in an increasingly technology-driven economy. In his talk, “The Woven Future: Building the Philippine AI Ecosystem Together,” PUP alumnus and M360 Chief Executive Officer Ramon Hirang called for stronger collaboration among government, industry, and academe to strengthen the country's AI capabilities.

“There’s talent everywhere in this country, especially in this hall, among you guys. However, opportunity is not always widely distributed, and that’s why education will close that distance,” Hirang said.

Hirang’s remarks linked AI development to the unequal distribution of opportunities. As industries adopt emerging technologies, workers need access to relevant education, skills training, and employment pathways to benefit from changing workforce demands.

However, education and workforce preparation alone cannot address every risk associated with AI. Responsible adoption also requires clear institutional policies, appropriate limits on automated decision-making, and safeguards that protect the rights and interests of affected individuals.

Atty. Mykee Ferdinand B. Medina Jr., Attorney III at the City Government of Las Piñas and director of the Integrated Bar of the Philippines–PPLM Chapter, discussed the role of legislation, ethical standards, and institutional accountability in governing AI.

“The future of AI will not be determined only by the technology we create, but also by the values, laws, and institutions we build around it,” Medina said.

His discussion underscored the importance of establishing a governance framework that complements individual responsibility. While users must learn to evaluate AI-generated outputs, institutions must also define appropriate applications, establish safeguards against misuse, and ensure accountability for decisions involving the technology.

Across the two-day summit, a central message emerged: as AI becomes more widely integrated into education, employment, and professional practice, human knowledge, sound judgment, and public interest must remain at the forefront of technological advancement.

The summit’s discussions also corresponded with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals on Quality Education (SDG 4), Decent Work and Economic Growth (SDG 8), Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure (SDG 9), and Partnerships for the Goals (SDG 17), connecting AI adoption with the country’s priorities in education, employment, innovation, and institutional cooperation.

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PUP Celebrates Its 122nd Founding Anniversary with Outreach at Hospicio de San José

Wed, 14 Oct 2026 13:24:00 GMT

PUP Sta. Mesa, Manila, Press Release, Communication Management Office

The Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP), in partnership with the Science of Identity Foundation Community Assistance for Responsible Existence (SIFCare), held Lingap Komunidad, a community extension and outreach program, on October 13 at Hospicio de San José in San Miguel, Manila.

A flagship program of PUP’s Extension Management Office (EMO), Lingap Komunidad aims to provide meaningful assistance to senior citizens and persons with special needs (PWSN), promote social responsibility, and reaffirm the University’s commitment to community engagement and public service.

According to EMO Community Relations and Outreach Services Chief Assoc. Prof. Airavie Joy D. R. Austria, the initiative reflects the belief that education should not only transform individuals but also contribute to societal transformation.

“Through Lingap Komunidad, we bring these two values together by reaching out to communities and institutions that need our support,” she said. “This activity reminds us that the true measure of excellence lies not only in what we achieve as an institution, but also in how we use those achievements to make a positive difference in people’s lives.”

Hospicio de San José, the country’s first social welfare agency, has served as a foster-care institution and home for orphans, abandoned individuals, persons with special needs, and older adults. Approximately 100 senior citizens and persons with special needs participated in the program.

As PUP celebrates the 122nd anniversary of its founding, this initiative underscores that the legacy of the Sintang Paaralan is measured not only by its years of service or academic achievements, but also by the lives it touches and the communities it helps empower.

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PUP President named Asia's Modern Hero

Wed, 14 Oct 2026 13:21:00 GMT

PUP Sta. Mesa, Manila, 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

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

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

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