Polytechnic University of the Philippines

CHK champions Inclusivity; organized seminar empowering visually impaired youth

Fri, 13 Jun 2025 21:27:00 GMT

Angelo Acedera, News, Communication Management Office

The Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP) reaffirmed its commitment to inclusivity and accessible education by hosting the “Champions of Inclusion” International Seminar from June 4 to 6, 2025, at the PUP Gymnasium, Sta. Mesa Campus. The three-day event centered on empowering children and youth with visual impairments through adaptive educational sports camps.

Spearheaded in partnership with Parents Advocate for Visually Impaired Children (PAVIC) and the Perkins School for the Blind, the seminar aimed to foster an inclusive environment by promoting sports specifically designed to accommodate the unique needs of visually impaired individuals.

According to Prof. Antonio F. Enriquez Jr., Chairperson of the Department of Sports Science under the College of Human Kinetics (CHK), the initiative is part of the college’s sustained extension programs.

“Every year, nagkakaroon kami ng extension activity with PAVIC and Perkins, dahil yung advocacy ng PAVIC na tulungan yung mga visually impaired individuals is naka-align din sa advocacy ng PUP na ma-accomodate yung mga visually impaired students,” Prof. Enriquez explained.

(Every year, we conduct extension activities in partnership with PAVIC and Perkins because their advocacy—to support visually impaired individuals—aligns with PUP’s mission of creating an inclusive learning environment for all students)

The event brought together students from the Bachelor in Physical Education (BPE) and Bachelor in Applied Science (BAS) programs, along with international delegates from Indonesia, Vietnam, and Cambodia, highlighting the event’s global relevance.

One of the major highlights of the seminar was a plenary session led by Dr. Lauren Lieberman, an international consultant for Perkins Educational and founder of Camp Abilities. Dr. Lieberman introduced the concept of Universal Design for Learning in Physical Education (UDLPE)—a framework for developing inclusive physical education programs that benefit not only visually impaired learners but also individuals with various other disabilities.

The event also featured hands-on training sessions in blind soccer, swimming, and track and field, giving participants and educators alike practical experience in implementing adaptive sports. These activities served as a dynamic learning opportunity for students and faculty, enhancing their skills in inclusive physical education instruction.

“Pino-promote ng ating Sintang Paaralan ang inclusivity, we have members in our community who have disabilities, may mga students tayo who have disabilities, nakakatulong yung mga ganitong event, lalo na sa mga faculty members natin sa CHK to enhance and improve their teaching strategy or to have adaptive learning strategy na even those who have students who have disabilities can still participate. Being an inclusive University, kailangan natin masiguro na no one left behind,” Prof. Enriquez added.

(Our beloved Sintang Paaralan promotes inclusivity. We have students and community members with disabilities. Events like this help our CHK faculty enhance their teaching methods and adopt adaptive strategies so students with disabilities can fully participate. As an inclusive university, we must ensure that no one is left behind)

Fittingly, the seminar took place at the PUP Sta. Mesa Campus also known as the Mabini Campus, named in honor of national hero Apolinario Mabini, the “Sublime Paralytic,” whose leadership and intellect shaped the Philippine revolution despite his physical limitations. His legacy of resilience and advocacy for equity mirrors the very values celebrated throughout the event.

Through initiatives like the “Champions of Inclusion” seminar, PUP continues to pave the way for a more inclusive educational landscape—one where every student, regardless of ability, is empowered to thrive.

_{(Note: English Translation and Grammar Check generated by AI.)}

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PUP launches StratComm with OVPRED

Tue, 10 Jun 2025 16:47:00 GMT

Sonny M. Versoza, News, Communication Management Office

The Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP) officially kicked off the sectoral dissemination of the Strategic Communication (StratComm) Plan with the Office of the Vice President for Research, Extension, and Development (OVPRED) sector on May 28, 2025.

Titled “Sintalastasan: Sectoral Dissemination of the PUP Strategic Communication Plan,” the inaugural session gathered office heads and staff from the OVPRED sector, led by Vice President Dr. Anna Ruby P. Gapasin and Assistant to the Vice President Dr. Angelina E. Borican. The activity marked the first in a series of seminar-workshops organized by the Communication Management Office (CMO) in line with the University’s goal to institutionalize clear, ethical, and unified messaging across all sectors.

Topics discussed included effective social media management, digital and in-person communication strategies, and media ethics, all aimed at enhancing the internal and external communication practices of university units. The session also provided updates on guidelines for branding, content creation, and other communication collaborations between CMO and OVPRED sector.

Dr. Gapasin expressed her support for the initiative, emphasizing the importance of effective communication in promoting research, extension, and development work in the University.

The CMO is set to continue the sectoral dissemination with the remaining sectors in the coming weeks as part of PUP’s broader effort for responsive, inclusive, and brand-aligned communication practices across the institution.

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OSS and MSD unite for Inaugural Health and Wellness Collaboration

Tue, 10 Jun 2025 16:12:00 GMT

Brent Soriano, Heildenberg Dimarucot, News, Communication Management Office

The Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP) launched its first-ever joint Health and Wellness Program on April 22 and May 30, 2025, uniting the efforts of the Office of Student Services (OSS) and the Medical Services Department (MSD).

Held under the theme “Building a Healthier Tomorrow: Empowering Wellness for a Stronger Community,” the two-day initiative was designed to benefit the entire PUP community. The program featured a series of health-focused activities and information sessions aimed at promoting physical, mental, and emotional wellness across the university. This is aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) No. 3: Good Health and Well-Being.

The Kickoff Event
The event began with a Health Awareness Symposium held at the NARLLC Bulwagang Balagtas, featuring six distinguished speakers who addressed critical health topics—from cancer prevention to mental wellness in the workplace.

Dr. Beatrice J. Tiangco, President and CEO of CARE Philippines, opened the symposium with a compelling talk titled “Empowering Communities through Cancer Awareness,” encouraging participants to advocate for early detection and take proactive steps toward health education and care. She was followed by Dr. Rodrigo V. Lopiga, Director of the Office of Counseling and Psychological Services (OCPS), who discussed the importance of fostering a healthy work environment.

The session continued with surgical oncologist Dr. Ida Marie Lim of the Jose Reyes Memorial Medical Center, who shared insights on “Thyroid and Head & Neck Cancer: Prevention and Early Detection,” providing participants with practical screening guidelines. Cardiologist Dr. Francis Charles L. Fernandez from UERM Medical Center emphasized how nutrition and lifestyle changes can significantly reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease. Dr. Dondon Davidge F. Canoza of the National Kidney and Transplant Institute presented the latest strategies in lung cancer prevention.

Concluding the symposium, Ms. Carmen Auste, CEO of the Cancer Warriors Foundation Philippines, addressed systemic barriers to cancer care access in the country.

“Access to timely treatment remains our greatest challenge,” she said, calling for greater collaboration between institutions and local communities.

The symposium marked a strong start to the university’s expanding initiatives to empower the PUP community through accessible health education and proactive wellness strategies.

Hands-On Workshops and Activities
The second day continued with a series of interactive workshops and free medical services held at the 2nd Floor, South Wing of the university’s Main Building. Participants received complimentary consultations and diagnostic screenings through partnerships with top medical providers, including Shinagawa Diagnostic and Preventive Care, Prime Diagnostic Medical Inc., and UERM Medical Center. Services covered a wide range of health concerns, such as eye and bone health, as well as screenings for breast, cervical, and thyroid cancer. The LoveYourself Caravan also provided on-site HIV and syphilis testing.

Mental health in sports took the spotlight in the workshop “Ready, Set, Go! Athletes, Mental Health, and the Road to Resilience,” led by Dr. Elham Bocalbos, Head of the Psychiatry Department at UERM Medical Center. Dr. Bocalbos emphasized the unique mental health challenges faced by student-athletes and strategies to build resilience.

The afternoon sessions featured filmmaker and disability rights advocate Gabriel Barba, who shared powerful insights into the experiences of persons with disabilities. Mx. Pete Tan of LoveYourself PH followed with a talk on safe sexual health practices, encouraging open dialogue and education among students.

Concluding the day was Dr. Edgar Michael T. Eufemio, Medical Director of Peak Form Sports Recovery Center, who led a practical discussion on sports injuries. He addressed frequently asked questions and provided guidance on prevention and recovery, empowering student-athletes to take charge of their physical well-being.

The program was spearheaded by student leaders Mr. Klarence Jerico T. Capunihan and Mr. Vince R. Bingayan, in collaboration with faculty co-leads Prof. Jimmy M. Fernando and Dr. Liza Yanes of the Medical Services Department.

Their joint leadership ensured smooth coordination among key partner organizations, including the PUP Sentral na Konseho ng Mag-aaral, Mapúa University Red Cross Youth, the Philippine Society of Medical Technology Students (National University Manila Chapter), the PUP College of Political Science and Public Administration Council, and the PUP Future Business Teachers’ Organization.

Impact and Future Directions
By offering free consultations, health screenings, and expert-led discussions, PUP’s first collaborative Health and Wellness Program significantly strengthened the university’s culture of health awareness and preventive care. More than 800 participants—including students, faculty, and staff—benefited from personalized medical guidance and community-focused activities.

Organizers have already begun preparations for next year’s program, with plans to broaden its scope and deepen institutional partnerships.

“Our goal is to make wellness an integral part of campus life—today’s initiative is just the beginning,” said Capunihan.

With its strong lineup of expert speakers, hands-on health services, and committed leadership, PUP’s inaugural Health and Wellness Program sets a new standard for university-driven public health initiatives—truly paving the way for a healthier tomorrow.

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Murata, PUP formalize MOA for faculty and student growth

Tue, 03 Jun 2025 12:05:00 GMT

Jan Vincent Lanuza, News, Communication Management Office

The Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP) signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) with the Philippine Manufacturing Co. of Murata, Inc. (PMM), a Japanese semiconductor and electronics manufacturing company, on May 23 at the First Philippine Industrial Park, Tanauan City, Batangas.

This partnership focuses on providing on-the-job training (OJT) and potential employment opportunities for students of PUP Sta. Mesa Campus, following the earlier collaboration with PUP Sto. Tomas, Batangas Campus. Under the MOA, career-centered initiatives such as internships, student immersions, and knowledge-sharing activities involving students, faculty, and staff will be implemented. PMM will also participate in university-led programs such as Career Talks, Mock Recruitment, and Job Fairs.

Broader opportunities for the University and its students
Vice President for Student Affairs and Services, Prof. Tomas O. Testor expressed optimism about this new endeavor. Alumni Relations and Career Development Office Director Engr. Florinda H. Oquindo highlighted that this partnership will give students “broader opportunities to give them hands-on learning and skills development [and] abridging the academia and the industry.”

Aside from its student-centric initiatives, Oquindo added that this agreement opens doors for the University in Industry Collaborations, Research and Development, Potential Funding and Sponsorship, Curriculum Enhancement, and Faculty Development. She hopes that this new association will pave the way for more engagements in the future.

PUP: Home of disciplined and hardworking minds
PMM Director of Administration, Mitsuki Notsu, shared that the University’s strong reputation, commitment to academic excellence, and producing disciplined minds were the key reasons behind their enthusiasm to join forces.

“We have great trust in the University, its professors, and the quality of education it provides. More so, PUP stands out as an institution known for resiliency, hardworking students, making them ideal candidates for future career opportunities and collaboration,” he said.

Notsu also noted that the Iskolar ng Bayan are hardworking, proactive, and highly responsible. One such graduate, he stated, joined the company at its inception and has since risen to become one of the Section Managers.

PUP’s contribution
That section manager is Engr. Wilson D. Mareja, Senior Manager for the Machinery Engineering Department and a proud PUP alumnus. In an interview, he discussed how his experiences in PUP shaped his professional journey.

“Itinuro nito kung papaano maging matatag, itinuro sa amin kung papaano tayo haharap sa kinabukasan. Maraming pagkakataon na madadapa tayo pero ito yung mga nagbigay sa amin ng inspirasyon kung nasaan kami ngayon at kung nasaan ako ngayon dito sa industriya.”

(It taught us how to be strong; it taught us how to face the future. There were many times we would fall but those were the moments that inspired us to get to where we are now—and where I am now in this industry.)

A BS in Mechanical Engineering graduate, Mareja credited the University for molding him from a young and aspiring learner into a seasoned professional.

“PUP ang naging daan para sa akin na magkaroon ng isang magandang karera, ng isang magandang buhay, at isang magandang kinabukasan. Hindi lamang para sa pamilya ko kundi para mas sa kung ano man ang maco-contribute ko pa sa society,” he relayed.

(PUP was the path that gave me a good career, a good life, and a bright future. Not just for my family, but also for what I can contribute to society.)

Joining Notsu, Mareja, Testor, and Oquindo during the MOA signing were PMM’s HR Junior Section Manager Abegail Santiago and its team members and PUP’s Alumni Relations and Career Development Office (ARCDO) representatives: Career Development and Placement Services Chief Assoc. Prof. Jane S. Pulma and Alumni Relations Services Chief Dr. Emeteria Leonila A. Perez.

Through collaboration with PMM, the University continues to uphold its commitment to the PUP Community, specifically in alignment with its Strategic Goals for Teaching and Learning Pillar—focused on Innovative Curricula and Instruction, Empowered, Expert, and Productive Faculty Members, and Holistic Student Development.

_{(Note: English Translation and Grammar Check generated by AI.)}

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PUP achieves high passing rates, produces topnotchers in 2025 LEPT

Fri, 30 May 2025 16:47:00 GMT

Jan Vincent Lanuza, News, Communication Management Office

Graduates of the Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP) have once again proven the value of their education in the University with an outstanding performance in the March 2025 Licensure Exams for Professional Teachers (LEPT).

In the results released by the Professional Regulatory Commission (PRC) on May 23, the entire PUP system collectively recorded a 90.18% passing rate in the Elementary Level and 67.75% in the Secondary Level—significantly higher than the National Passing Rates of 46.79% and 62.31%, respectively. This result further strengthens the University’s reputation for academic excellence in teacher education.

Notably, PUP Mulanay, Quezon Campus was named the top performing school with 50 to 99 examinees with at least 90% passing percentage, boasting an impressive 98.11% rate while the PUP Sta. Mesa Campus ranked 4th with its 94.64% passing rate.

Continued academic excellence
Moreover, three (3) new Guro ng Bayan were recognized as topnotchers. For the Elementary Level, Aileen Rulona placed 7th with a score of 93.20%, while Katrina Palad ranked 10th with 92.60%. In the Secondary Level, Mary Chris Vegas stood 10th after earning a 92.00% rating.

All topnotchers came from the PUP Sta. Mesa Campus.

University President Dr. Manuel M. Muhi congratulated all top performing Iskolar ng Bayan and exam takers, emphasizing that their success is a testament to the sustainable culture of excellence in the Sintang Paaralan, which champions quality and affordable education for all Filipinos.

“Para sa ating mga bagong Guro ng Bayan, mabuhay po kayo! Naghatid po kayo ng napakalaking karangalan sa ating minamahal na Sintang Paaralan at inspirasyon sa ating mga Iskolar ng Bayan. Pinakita po ninyo na sa tulong ng dedikasyon, tiyaga, at sigla sa pag-aaral, makakamit natin ang ating mga pangarap.” Muhi stated.

(To our new Guro ng Bayan, we salute you! You have brought immense honor to our beloved Sintang Paaralan and have become an inspiration to our Iskolar ng Bayan. You proved that with dedication, perseverance, and passion for learning, we can achieve our dreams.)

“Excited kami na makita kayo bilang aming bagong kasamahan sa paggabay sa mga kabataang Pilipino,” he added.

(We are excited to see you as our new colleagues in guiding the Filipino youth.)

The University’s strong showing in the March 2025 LEPT highlights its steadfast dedication to providing accessible and quality education. It also re-affirmed the PUP’s standing as one of the country’s leading institutions for aspiring educators.

The licensure exams were held on March 23, 2025, in various PRC testing centers across the country. Details regarding the oath-taking ceremony of the new Guro ng Bayan will be announced on a later date.

_{(Note: English Translation and Grammar Check generated by AI.)}

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Manila Symphony Orchestra shines at PUP

Fri, 30 May 2025 15:08:00 GMT

Angelo Acedera, News, Communication Management Office

The Manila Symphony Orchestra (MSO) delivered an unforgettable performance at the Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP) on April 25, 2025, as part of its ongoing “Symphonic Explorations” series. The event was held at Bulwagang Balagtas, Ninoy Aquino Learning Library and Resource Center (NALLRC), and drew a full-house audience eager to witness the first-ever full orchestral concert in the university’s history.

Conducted by Maestro Jeffrey Solares, the MSO’s Music Director and a respected advocate for classical music in the Philippines, the orchestra mesmerized the audience with its musical mastery despite adverse weather conditions. The determination and cultural spirit of the PUP community prevailed, as hundreds attended both the workshop and concert.

A Day of Musical Engagement and Cultural Exchange
The event was a collaborative effort between the MSO and the University Center for Culture and the Arts (UCCA) of PUP. It featured two major components: a free symphonic workshop and an afternoon concert, both designed to educate, inspire, and entertain.

The workshop welcomed 106 participants, offering them a rare opportunity to engage with professional musicians in a hands-on learning experience. Attendees explored the fundamentals of orchestral performance, gained insights into various musical instruments, and learned about the role of symphonic music in Filipino culture and society.

Following the workshop, the main concert commenced, showcasing not only the MSO’s musical prowess but also the talents of local and university-based ensembles. Among the featured performers were Bagong Himig Serenata, Harana String Company, Poly Sound Band, PUP Icons, and Buklod Sining—each bringing a unique flavor to the event and highlighting the diversity of Filipino musical expression.

One of the most moving moments of the concert was the vibrant rendition of the beloved Kapampangan folk song “Atin Cu Pung Singsing,” arranged by National Artist Ryan Cayabyab with added orchestration by Solares. The piece, performed by the MSO in collaboration with Bagong Himig Serenata, captivated the audience with its rich harmonies and heartfelt vocals, serving as a musical bridge between tradition and innovation.

Celebrating Resilience and Cultural Passion
Despite the extreme heat and cancellation of regular academic activities, the event drew a significant crowd—a testament to the community’s unwavering support for the arts. Dr. Hemmady Mora, Chief of the Music Section under UCCA, expressed deep admiration for the turnout. She commended the students and faculty for their resilience and their commitment to embracing Filipino culture and music.

The successful staging of this event at PUP marks a significant milestone not only for the university but also for the broader effort to make symphonic and classical music more accessible to Filipino audiences, especially the youth.

Music as a Unifying Force
The “Symphonic Explorations” series at PUP reaffirmed the transformative power of music—not only as an art form but as a means of community-building, education, and national pride. By bringing world-class orchestral music into a public university setting, the MSO demonstrated its mission to extend the reach of classical music beyond traditional concert halls. This performance at PUP stands as a beacon of cultural enrichment, inspiring students and artists alike to continue exploring the richness of Filipino musical heritage.

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RIHSD launches new research to boost gender inclusivity in HEI's

Fri, 30 May 2025 15:08:00 GMT

Chloe Nicole D. Piamonte, News, Research Institute for Human and Social Development

To enhance gender inclusivity in selected higher education institutions (HEIs) across the Philippines, the Research Institute for Human and Social Development - Center for Social Inclusivity Studies (RIHSD-CSIS) has launched an internally funded research project titled “Gender Mainstreaming in Higher Education.” This project aims to survey and evaluate the gender mainstreaming efforts of selected HEI’s through qualitative interviews.

On April 24, 2025, the Center for Social Inclusivity Studies (CSIS) has signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) with the independent academic organization ‘Women Doing Philosophy’ (WDP). WDP, dedicated to creating supportive spaces for Filipina philosophers, has formally joined forces with CSIS to advance this impactful research.

Representing WDP were Dr. Jean Emily P. Tan of Ateneo de Manila University and Gladys B. Esteve of Ateneo de Naga University. Attending for the Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP) were RIHSD Director Dr. Melcah P. Monsura, CSIS Chief Asst. Prof. Chloe D. Nicole Piamonte, and researchers Jeniel P. Dasig and Ron Justin P. Mangondato from the College of Arts and Letters (CAL).

This collaboration highlights the shared commitment to enhancing inclusivity in academics. By combining resources, WDP and RIHSD-CSIS aim to significantly improve gender inclusivity in higher education for a more equitable future.

_{Photo source: The ceremonial signing of the Memorandum of Agreement between the Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP) and Women Doing Philosophy (WDP) through the Research Institute for Human and Social Development (RIHSD) - Center for Social Inclusivity Studies (CSIS). The event was led by Melcah P. Monsura, Director of the RIHSD; Chloe Nicole Piamonte, Chief of the CSIS; and Dr. Jean Emily P. Tan of WDP, with the RIHSD's researchers also in attendance.}

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University Journals expand academic reach through local and international indexing

Fri, 30 May 2025 15:08:00 GMT

Hazel Dr. Samala, News, Office of the Vice President for Research, Extension, and Development

Recognized for their commitment to disseminating quality research, PUP University Journals—such as Mabini Review, Social Science and Development Review, Education Review, Bisig, Entrada, and PUP Journal of Science and Technology—recently took a huge leap towards expanding their reach by attaining indexing in credible databases.

All PUP Journals are now indexed in the Bielefeld Academic Search Engine (BASE) and Scilit. BASE, operated by the Bielefeld University Library, is one of the world’s largest academic search engines, containing more than 400 million records from more than 11,000 content providers worldwide. Scilit, meanwhile, is a multidisciplinary and free scholarly database that indexes scientific materials from CrossRef, PubMed, and other online sources.

Additionally, Entrada and Mabini Review have been added to the Ateneo de Manila University’s List of Approved Journals for the School of Humanities. This list is maintained by its Office of the Vice President for Research, Creative Work, and Innovation, and accessible to graduate students.

The Mabini Review is also included in prestigious research databases, including the Indiana University Digital Library of the Commons—a gateway to the international literature on the commons managed by the Indiana University; PhilPapers Online Research in Philosophy—a comprehensive index maintained by the community of philosophers; and The Philosopher’s Index—the most trusted online bibliography in the field of Philosophy. The latter offers a comprehensive database of over 650,000 records from philosophical publications since 1902 and provides a vast array of high-quality content to scholars and researchers globally.

These accomplishments enhance the PUP’s reputation for research excellence, ensures wider access to its published works, and promotes collaboration and knowledge sharing. It also amplifies the impact of the University’s academic contributions, supports the advancement of various fields, and extend their influence beyond the Sintang Paaralan and into global academic communities.

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PUPian stands atop the 2025 REELE, highlights PUP excellence

Fri, 30 May 2025 15:07:00 GMT

Nicole Pineda, News, PUP Campus Journalists

Kimberly Rose D. Capiral of Polytechnic University of the Philippines - Sto. Tomas Campus (PUP-STC), topped the recently concluded April 2025 Registered Electrical Engineers Licensure Examinations (REELE), earning an impressive 93% rating and placing first among 4,137 passers.

The PUP System including PUP Sto. Tomas, PUP Sta. Mesa, PUP Lopez and PUP Maragondon campuses collectively posted a 72.94% passing rate, significantly higher than the national average of 61.37%, solidifying the university’s reputation for academic excellence in engineering.

PUP-STC also recorded a strong performance in the licensure exam, achieving an 86.79% passing rate (46 passers out of 53 examinees) and ranking 5th among top performing schools with 50 or more examinees and with at least 80% passing percentage.

Capiral’s achievement marks a milestone for the University, displaying once again its strong academic excellence. For her, it reflects years of academic hurdles, self-doubt, and disciplined preparation.

Behind the Success: Challenges and turning points
Capiral, who was initially uncertain about her performance, was shocked upon learning her top rank nationwide. She admitted feeling discouraged, especially when seeing the difficult questions during the exam.

She recalled, her years at PUP Sto. Tomas was marked by academic challenges and difficult classes. She remembered receiving a 2.75 grade in Calculus—an experience that almost caused her to transfer.

“The first two years were tough—I was just enduring the course at that point,” she said.

Eventually, a turning point came when she chose to persevere and developed a stronger interest and appreciation for Electrical Engineering, which motivated her to commit to finishing what she started.

To prepare for her exam, she focused on active recall and flashcards, reviewing up to 300 cards daily to ensure she solved problems consistently. She also utilized AI tools to better understand complex concepts.

The topnotcher shared that her rigorous preparation was partly driven by the disappointment of not graduating with Latin honors and seeing the board exam as a second opportunity to prove her efforts were worthwhile. She also attributes her success to the support and guidance of her family, friends, and the PUP Sto. Tomas faculty. In recognition of her achievement, the University awarded Capiral a ?200,000 incentive during the May flag-raising ceremony, in accordance with Executive Order No. 28, Series of 2024, which grants cash rewards to topnotchers in bar or licensure examinations. She is the first to receive such a distinction. “I received so many warm congratulations from the PUP community that day, which was a bit overwhelming but definitely something I’m grateful for. They also mentioned that I was the first to receive such a large incentive, so I feel very privileged and thankful as a recipient,” she expressed.

An engineer’s resolve
Capiral encourages aspiring engineers, particularly women in male-dominated fields, to persist in pursuing their goals.

She emphasized that while engineering may not be for everyone, those who are passionate about it should keep going. She then highlighted the importance of rest in overcoming burnout.

Looking ahead, Capiral plans to work in her desired company and contribute to the Electrical Engineering field.

“I hope to make a mark in the [Electrical Engineering] industry,” she concluded.

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PUPCET 2025 results: A ray of surprise, joy, and hope for passers

Thu, 29 May 2025 19:41:00 GMT

Kier James Hernandez, News, PUP Campus Journalists

Stunned. Ecstatic. Optimistic.

These are the words of some Polytechnic University of the Philippines College Entrance Test (PUPCET) 2025 passers when asked about their reaction when they learned that they passed the exam.

At exactly 12:01 in the morning, on May 15, the University released the examination results—earlier than last year’s June 8 release.

Out of 181,598 applicants, only 20,000 students were accepted, according to the Office of the Vice President for Student Affairs and Services (OVPSAS).

PUP continues to be one of the top-performing schools in various fields, resulting in a myriad of students dreaming to enter the institution.

Leap of Joy
As the PUPCET result came out, the passers expressed a range of emotions upon seeing on their application portal that they had qualified to enroll at the Sintang Paaralan.

Mark Raven Maranan, an aspiring Political Science student, said he was anxious while waiting for the exam results. Due to lack of preparation, he was expecting a different outcome.

“Habang binubuksan ko ang portal, kabado akong tumingin. At naman nang makita ko ang logo ng PUP sa screen at “Congratulations” [ang bumungad sa akin], napatayo ako at napatalon, hindi ko napigilan ang sarili kong sumigaw sa sobrang saya,”I Maranan said.

(I was so nervous as I opened the portal. And when I saw the PUP logo and the word ‘Congratulations’ on the screen, I jumped to my feet and couldn’t help but shout out of pure joy.)

He then added after learning of his success “Ang makapasa sa PUP ay hindi lang simpleng tagumpay para sa akin—ito ay simbolo ng lahat ng hirap, sakripisyo, at paniniwala na balangaraw, magiging posible rin ang imposible. Isa itong paalala na kapag hindi ka bumitaw [sa pangarap mo], may naghihintay na magandang bunga.”

(Getting into PUP isn’t just a simple achievement for me—it’s a symbol of all the struggles, sacrifices, and the belief that one day, even the impossible can become possible. It’s a reminder that if you don’t give up on your dreams, something beautiful will come out of it.)

Meanwhile, another passer, Jirreh Jay De Chavez, an Accountancy hopeful, shared that he was stunned upon seeing the result. According to him, passing the PUPCET is a major feat given the large number of applicants.

“Seeing the result, it made me tear up a little as I was really manifesting to enter PUP,” stated De Chavez, who saw this as a redeeming moment after failing the PUP Senior High School application in 2023.

Likewise, Aldrin Andrew Austria, was also surprised and even brought to tears upon acing the University’s college entrance exam. According to him, he cried in euphoria, overwhelmed with joy, as he can now call himself an “Iskolar ng Bayan.”

A campus journalist at his previous school, Austria plans to continue his passion for reporting by pursuing a Bachelor of Arts in Journalism (BAJ) program.

On choosing PUP
As the test results of potential Iskolar ng Bayan was announced, the three shared a multitude of reasons as to why they want to study at Sintang Paaralan.

For Maranan, the prestige of the University stood out as the main reason. He sees the institution as an ideal environment to develop his skills and prepare for real-world challenges, citing its strong values rooted in patriotism and humanity.

Likewise, De Chavez sided with PUP because of its reputation in producing top-performing Accountancy students. Austria, meanwhile, was drawn to the University’s transformative impact on students’ lives and the quality education it offers at no cost.

These three individuals are among thousands of hopefuls who likely share the same reaction upon learning they had passed the PUPCET, affirming that dreams can indeed come true.

Now that they’ve passed, they hope to secure a slot in their desired academic program, aware of the intense competition that lies ahead.

Enrolment for the academic year 2025-2026 for incoming first year students will start on July 7 until July 18, while waitlisted applicants will be emailed after the initial enrollment date should there be any remaining slots.

_{(Note: English translation generated from AI.)}

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