Polytechnic University of the Philippines

COL holds commencement exercises; pioneering LLM batch marches

Tue, 08 Jul 2025 15:30:00 GMT

Gicel Roger Salvilla, News, Communication Management Office

The College of Law (CoL) conducted its Year-End Commencement Exercises on July 3, 2025, at Bulwagang Balagtas, Ninoy Aquino Library and Learning Resources Center (NALLRC), PUP Sta. Mesa Campus, honoring graduates of the Juris Doctor (JD) program and the inaugural batch of the Master of Laws (LL.M.) program.

Degrees were conferred on a total of 119 graduates, comprising 65 from the JD program and 54 from the LL.M. program — 39 under the Public Governance Track and 15 under the Alternative Dispute Resolution Track. The ceremony brought together university officials, faculty members, and families to celebrate this significant milestone for the graduating class.

Atty. Gemy Lito L. Festin, Dean of the CoL, formally presented the graduates, while Vice President for Academic Affairs Emanuel C. De Guzman, representing University President Manuel M. Muhi, presided over the conferment of degrees. Atty. Christian George L. Melitante and Atty. Alexander D. Dumpa were also recognized as recipients of the ‘Best Thesis’ award.

A highlight of the occasion was the presence of Hon. Justice Jose Midas P. Marquez of the Supreme Court of the Philippines, who served as the keynote speaker and was honored with the prestigious ‘Tanglaw ng Bayan’ (Light of the Nation) Award — PUP’s highest recognition for individuals who have made outstanding contributions to national development and public service.

In his inspirational message, Justice Marquez emphasized the importance of knowledge and resilience, saying, “The knowledge you gain and the resilience you build will serve as a strong foundation as you champion fairness, integrity, and the service the legal profession demands.”

He also encouraged the LL.M. graduates to lead with purpose and influence: “We look to you to lead by example, to inspire younger and aspiring lawyers, and to use your expertise to uphold the law and further the cause of justice.”

“The Bar Exam this September 2025 is not merely a test of memory or legal knowledge; it is a test of discipline, resilience, and faith. You are not alone. You are equipped, you are trained, and above all, you are called,” Dean Festin addressed the

Addressing the pioneering LL.M. batch, the dean praised their courage and dedication, saying, “You embody the pursuit of excellence beyond the minimum. As the first cohort of the PUP College of Law Master of Laws program, you ventured into uncharted territory with vision and determination. Today, you emerge as torchbearers of advanced legal scholarship.”

Dean Festin then announced the upcoming opening of the CoL’s new building in Lepanto, Manila, underscoring PUP’s ongoing commitment to excellence and its competitive standing among law schools in the Philippines.

Jonathan Benj Andersson B. Abis, student representative of the JD Class of 2025, shared his journey and challenges throughout the four-year program, distilling his experience into three key lessons. First, he stressed the importance of self-confidence by sharing a personal struggle he overcame. Second, he highlighted the vital role of a strong support system during law school, emphasizing that success is a collective effort. Lastly, “Never give up.”

Reflecting on the rigors of law school, he humorously remarked, “People often say that soldiers are the bravest, but I beg to differ — the bravest are law students who come to class unprepared.”

Atty. Christian George L. Melitante, student representative of the pioneering LL.M. class, delivered a heartfelt message commemorating a historic milestone for the CoL.

“But being first is not only a source of pride; it is also a responsibility. As pioneers, we had no footsteps to follow, no alumni to consult, and no proof that the LL.M. program would succeed — until we became that proof. Being first is like being handed a blank page — not to follow a script, but to write a legacy. We built a standard, shaped the experience, tested the system, and honored it,” Melitante said.

The program ended with credits message from Commissioner Lorenzo R. Reyes of the Legal Education Board. The community of accomplished graduates pledged loyalty and sang the PUP Hymn. Some graduates then shared their memorable experiences from the PUP CoL and offered valuable tips for future Sintang JD and LL.M. students.

Mark Reyes, a JD graduate, expressed how privileged he feels to have studied at the CoL, having also completed his undergraduate degree in Banking and Finance at the university. Despite the challenges of being admitted in 2020 — dubbed the “Pandemic babies” — Reyes acknowledged the pressure he felt during the period before face-to-face classes resumed. He credited the faculty for their unwavering support, which helped him persevere and stay strong throughout his studies.

He said, “Faculty wise, magagaling ang faculty members ng PUP and hindi sila nagkulang sa pagtuturo, sulit ‘yung oras na ipinasok namin sa kanila. In fact, mas nahiya nga kaming umabsent, kasi sila perfect attendance lagi.” (Faculty-wise, the faculty members of PUP CoL are excellent and never lacked in their teaching. The time we spent in their classes was truly worth it. In fact, we even felt embarrassed to be absent sometimes because they always had perfect attendance.)

Atty. Aislinn Agodon, a graduate from the pioneer batch of LL.M., shares the university accommodation with the students considering they are working now as lawyers.

“The Master of Law degree program of the Polytechnic University of the Philippines was very accommodating, especially with respect to our workload as lawyers. The lawyers here have a very huge practice, which enabled us to pursue this degree while collaborating with other lawyers. We basically learned from each other not only from our professors.” Agodon said.

The new graduates of JD are scheduled to take the bar examination in September 2025. Meanwhile, the PUP CoL is accepting applications for admission to the Master of Laws program for the Academic Year 2025–2026 until July 10, 2025. Interested applicants are encouraged to visit the CoL’s official Facebook page for more information and application details.

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EMO organizes Project ASSESS

Tue, 08 Jul 2025 14:30:00 GMT

Elaine Carie A. Andres, News, Communication Management Office

The Extension Management Office (EMO) conducted its first Extension Capability Building Activity (ECBA) this year, titled “Project ASSESS – Advancing Sustainability and Standards in Extension through Systematic Impact Studies” on June 30 – July 2, 2025, at the Claro M. Recto Hall, PUP Main Campus. The three-day activity provided a venue for faculty and staff from various colleges and campuses to discuss the importance of impact studies in extension programs.

Extension Work in Higher Education: Why Impact Studies Matter
Extension work, alongside research and instruction, form the core pillar of higher education in the Philippines. So far, among these three, extension often lags in terms of recognition and systematic implementation. In response, our institution builds its efforts through its EMO to ensure that extension projects are not only implemented but also rigorously evaluated for their real-world impact.

On the first day of the activity, Dr. Anna Ruby P. Gapasin, Vice President for Research, Extension, and Development, emphasized that the university’s mission extends beyond classroom instruction and reminded the participants that they should undertake extension works for the benefit of their community partners. She said, “There are problems numbers cannot solve. Sabi ko, hindi. So ito na yun. Kayo yun. Kayo yung arm ng university para mag-multiply yung goods sa community.”

(“I said no. So this is it. That’s you. You are the arm of the university to multiply the goods in the community.”)

Director of the Extension Management Office, Dr. Rolan J. Malvar, highlighted that “extension is not just about launching projects or conducting trainings—it’s about changing lives.”

He noted that while many faculty members feel confident in designing and implementing projects, fewer have conducted formal impact studies to measure the effectiveness and long-term impact of their work.

The first resource speaker, Dr. Venarica B. Papa, a leading academic in community development from the University of the Philippines – Diliman, explained “Impact studies go beyond outputs and outcomes. They focus on the lived experiences of communities and ask whether the intervention truly improved lives, especially for the most marginalized.”

She cited some examples where well-intentioned projects failed to create meaningful change, such as repeated livelihood trainings that left communities with unused skills or resources because the interventions did not align with their actual needs.

A recurring theme throughout the activity was the need for participatory, people-centered approaches in both project implementation and impact assessment. “Nothing about us without us,” Dr. Papa reiterated, highlighting the importance of involving community members at every stage—from needs assessment to data interpretation. This approach not only ensures relevance but also empowers communities as active partners rather than passive beneficiaries.

The second resource speaker, Dr. Wilfredo B. Awitan, another expert in community development from the University of the Philippines – Diliman, shared practical frameworks and methodologies for conducting impact studies, including participatory rural appraisal, outcome mapping, and appreciative inquiry. He stressed that combining quantitative indicators (such as the number of trainings or beneficiaries) with qualitative narratives (stories of change, community reflections) provides a more holistic picture of impact.

Challenges and Ethical Considerations
Despite growing awareness, challenges remain. Many faculty and extension workers report lower confidence in statistical analysis and the use of advanced frameworks for impact assessment. There is also an ongoing need for structured training and peer mentoring to build these competencies.

Ethics emerged as a crucial concern. Dr. Papa mentioned that interventions intended to help, but those that may unintentionally perpetuate inequalities or fail to respect the community’s right to make decisions should be avoided.

“Development should be for the people, of the people, and by the people,” she said, urging practitioners to uphold dignity, amplify marginalized voices, and remain accountable not just to donors but to communities themselves.

Towards Building a Culture of Impact
The third resource speaker, Dr. Aquino M. Dela Peña, an Associate Professor from Batangas State University -TNEU, provided participants with a comprehensive understanding of the principles and practical aspects of impact assessment in extension work. His insights underscored the need for systematic planning, rigorous data collection, participatory approaches, and ethical standards to ensure that extension initiatives lead to meaningful and measurable change in communities.

The resource speakers conducted a collaborative group work activity with the participants each day of the workshop. The activity not only deepened participants’ knowledge but also improved their ability to design, implement, and assess extension projects as a team. This ensures that extension initiatives are both practical and sustainable.

Call to Action
The activity concluded with a call to action: for universities to foster a culture where impact studies are integral to extension work, not as a compliance requirement, but as a genuine commitment to social transformation. As one participant reflected, “Community extension work is not just for promotion or publication—it must come from the heart, rooted in empathy and a deep understanding of the communities we serve”.

As higher education institutions continue to expand their extension initiatives, vigorous and participatory impact studies will be key to ensuring that these efforts lead to lasting, meaningful change across Philippine society.

Patuloy na Serbisyo , Patuloy na Paglilingkod : Mula Sa Iyo, Para sa Bayan
Our University’s ongoing commitment toward extension excellence is anchored in our belief that true education goes beyond the classroom. Guided by the insights shared during the activity, we are reminded that effective extension work must be participatory, ethical, and impact-driven. It is not just about reaching communities—it is about walking with them, listening to their voices, and ensuring that our interventions lead to lasting and inclusive change.

As we move forward, we reaffirm our identity as Iskolar ng bayan: committed, compassionate, and socially responsive. In every extension endeavor, let us carry the spirit of “mula sa’yo, para sa bayan”—for it is in our service that education finds its highest purpose, and it is through our collective actions that true national development begins.

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

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CMO holds second leg of the Strategic Communication Workshop

Wed, 02 Jul 2025 16:11:00 GMT

Heildenberg Dimarucot, News, Communication Management Office

On June 18, 2025, the Communication Management Office (CMO) once again convened university administrators, faculty, and staff for the second leg of the Strategic Communication Plan Dissemination Training Workshop. The activity aimed at promoting responsive, inclusive, and brand-aligned communication practices.

Representatives from three sectors participated: the Office of the Executive Vice President (OEVP), the Office of the Vice President for Planning and Finance (OVPPF), and the Office of the President (OP). Prof. Alberto Guillo, representing OEVP and OVPPF, delivered his welcome remarks emphasizing the shared responsibility of all university members in upholding and promoting the PUP brand. The event was also graced by the presence of Dr. Manuel M. Muhi, whose continued support reaffirms that strong, strategic communication is essential to the success and growth of the institution.

Through interactive group exercises and actual transaction scenarios, participants explored both online and face-to-face communication, and learning to deliver clear, consistent messages, whether in meetings or via email.

Remaining sectors are set to participate in the said training-workshop this July and August. A series of internal policies will also be disseminated across the community to strengthen inclusive and actionable communication that will lead PUP into its next chapter of growth and impact.

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NSTP ignites campus spirit in dynamic Advocacy Week

Mon, 30 Jun 2025 15:34:00 GMT

Heildenberg Dimarucot, News, Communication Management Office

The National Service Training Program (NSTP) Advocacy Week, held on June 16 to 20, 2025, energized the Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP) with its vibrant blend of civic purpose and student-led initiatives. Organized by the NSTP Office in collaboration with PUP Sandiwa and dedicated student volunteers, the annual event combined environmental action, cultural celebration, and community outreach to cultivate civic responsibility among the next generation of leaders.

The week-long celebration commenced on June 16 with the ceremonial turnover of cleaning supplies, hygiene kits, and emergency preparedness kits to the university administration. This symbolic gesture underscored the program’s commitment to collective stewardship of campus spaces, highlighting students’ active role in maintaining a clean, safe, and resilient environment. That afternoon, over 200 volunteers took part in a university-wide clean-up drive, an active initiative in support of United Nations Sustainable Development Goals 11 and 13, which focus on Sustainable Cities and Communities, and Climate Action.

On June 17 and 18, the annual EcoWalk charted Anonas Street, Magsaysay Boulevard, Old Sta. Mesa Street, and Teresa Street. Over 250 participants engaged local residents through conversations and flyers, raising awareness on environmental preservation and climate responsibility.

Midweek, a ribbon-cutting ceremony inaugurated two advocacy exhibits focused on ‘Life Below Water’ and ‘Gender Equality,’ which transformed the South Wing Bridge of the Main Building into an interactive gallery highlighting marine conservation and women’s empowerment.

Cultural advocacy took the spotlight on June 19 with “Musika ng Adbokasiya: A Day of Celebration of Advocacies through Musical Concert.” In partnership with the University Center for Culture and the Arts, the event featured performances that fused Filipino musical traditions with themes such as mental health awareness, environmental protection, and peace education. Ensembles like Bagong Himig Serenata and Polysound Band turned advocacy into art, engaging audiences on emotional and intellectual levels.

The week culminated on June 20 with a donation drive benefiting PUP’s affiliated elementary schools. Staff, student leaders, faculty, and volunteers distributed school supplies, such as notebooks, pencils, and art materials, proven to enhance academic engagement and morale. Research shows that back-to-school drives not only alleviate financial strain for families but also foster a stronger sense of community, leading to improved attendance and classroom participation. Aligned with initiatives like the Black Pencil Project, the University’s NSTP programs demonstrate that sustained access to school supplies can significantly reduce dropout rates and improve learning outcomes.

At the heart of Advocacy Week is NSTP itself. The Civic Welfare Training Service (CWTS) component of NSTP, established by Republic Act No. 9163 on January 23, 2002, immerses tertiary students in community service while cultivating leadership skills and civic consciousness through experiential learning. By anchoring the week-long celebration in the NSTP curriculum, PUP ensures that advocacy is not an extracurricular activity, but a core component of students’ academic and personal growth.

NSTP Advocacy Week 2025 ultimately demonstrated how structured civic engagement, grounded in legal mandate and fueled by student creativity, can inspire meaningful change on and beyond campus. As PUP’s future educators, scientists, and leaders carry these experiences forward, the lessons of Advocacy Week will continue to echo well beyond the university’s walls.

This remarkable event would not have been possible without the dedication and hard work of the staff, student leaders, faculty, and, above all, the leadership of NSTP Director Rovelina B. Jacolbia. Their unwavering commitment to service has been instrumental in shaping an event that uplifts both volunteers and beneficiaries alike.

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"Expanded global footprint": THE SDG Impact Rankings recognizes PUP

Mon, 30 Jun 2025 15:34:00 GMT

Brent Soriano, News, Communication Management Office

The Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP) has earned a significant placement in the 2025 Times Higher Education (THE) Impact Rankings, reaffirming its position as a leading advocate of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Sintang Paaralan ranked in the 1500+ bracket globally, with notable performances across several SDGs, further underscoring the University’s unwavering commitment to inclusive, high-quality, and sustainability-driven education.

PUP recorded strong outcomes in several key areas: SDG 1 – No Poverty (301–400), SDG 2 – Zero Hunger (601–800), SDG 5 – Gender Equality (601–800), and SDG 14 – Life Below Water (401–600). These achievements reflect the University’s growing efforts in research, instruction, and community engagement aligned with the principles of sustainable development.

The University’s major strength lies in SDG 1 (No Poverty), as PUP continues to implement initiatives that directly support low-income students, including anti-poverty programs, financial assistance, and access to benefits under the Universal Access to Quality Tertiary Education Act of 2017.

PUP also continues to perform strongly in SDG 4 (Quality Education), having played a key role in producing first-generation college graduates and licensed professionals. These results reflect the University’s position as a transformative institution committed to providing accessible, high-quality education.

Felicitas Trinidad, Director of the Office of International Affairs (OIA), asserts that the institution’s efforts under SDG 5 (Gender Equality) remain a key area of impact. She highlights faculty members engaged in gender-related research, a growing number of female senior faculty, increased graduation rates among women, and institutional policies that safeguard against discrimination.

Trinidad also emphasized the University’s strong commitment to global engagement. “We believe in the importance of global engagement and continuously strive to strengthen our internationalization efforts. That is why all our services and units contribute toward this direction, in line with the University’s vision and mission to become the Comprehensive Polytechnic University in Asia,” Trinidad said.

This recognition underscores PUP’s expanding global footprint and steadfast commitment to academic and civic excellence rooted in sustainability, marking another milestone for the country’s first polytechnic university.

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PUP honored as one of top entries in ARTA's National Video Contest

Mon, 30 Jun 2025 15:33:00 GMT

Sonny M. Versoza, News, Communication Management Office

The Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP) has gained another national recognition as its official video entry was named one of the top submissions in the “Lights Camera Action! ARTA Story/Reels Contest”, a nationwide competition spearheaded by the Anti-Red Tape Authority (ARTA).

The contest, held in celebration of Ease of Doing Business Month, carried the theme ‘From Red Tape to Red Carpet: Better Business Movement in a Bagong Pilipinas.’ It aimed to showcase innovative efforts to streamline services and enhance efficiency, in line with the government’s commitment to good governance and service excellence.

Representing the University during the awarding ceremony held on June 18, 2025 were Prof. Tomas O. Testor, Vice President for Student Affairs and Services and Chairperson of the PUP Committee on Anti-Red Tape, along with members of the Communication Management Office (CMO), which spearheaded the conceptualization and execution of the winning video.

“The video aimed to emphasize the improved public service delivery of the University and its commitment to good governance and ease of doing business,” CMO Officer-in-Charge Emy Ruth D. Gianan said. “Through the video, we saw the enhancements made by PUP to become one of the leading universities in Asia. PUP has exerted efforts to make transactions faster and more efficient for the stakeholders.”

The video featured testimonials from various university clients, highlighting their experiences with PUP’s enhanced and streamlined services. The narrative emphasized the University’s efforts to cut bureaucratic red tape and promote transparent and responsive service delivery.

“This award is a good opportunity to promote PUP on the national stage,” Gianan added. “We are also taking note of the comments and feedback from the public to further improve our services.”

The recognition affirms PUP’s strong commitment to continuous improvement in governance and public service, in line with the principles of the Ease of Doing Business and Efficient Government Service Delivery Act.

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Continued excellence: PUP-CADBE attains high passing rates

Fri, 27 Jun 2025 19:20:00 GMT

Jan Vincent Lanuza, News, Communication Management Office

Graduates of the Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP) have once again showed the valuable education provided by the University through their remarkable performance in the June 2025 Licensure Exams for Architects (LEA).

Released by the Professional Regulatory Commission (PRC) on June 18, the PUP Sta. Mesa Campus posted an impressive 97.62% passing rate (41 out of 42 examinees)—remarkably higher than the National Passing Rates of 65.16% (1,352 out of 2,075 examinees).

This achievement, coupled with the University’s distinction as the top-performing school in the July 2024 LEA, further reinforces Sintang Paaralan’s reputation for academic excellence in molding aspiring architects.

Continued academic excellence
University President Dr. Manuel M. Muhi praised the new architects, emphasizing that their success brings honor and prestige to PUP.

“Pagbati sa ating mga bagong Arkitekto ng Bayan! Inspirasyon po kayo sa buong komunidad ng Pamantasan dahil pinakita ninyo ang diwa ng Tatak PUP—dedikasyon, tiyaga, at sigla sa pag-aaral—tungo sa pagkamit ng inyong mga pangarap.” Muhi stated.

(Congratulations to our new Architects of the Nation! You are an inspiration to the entire University community for embodying the spirit of Tatak PUP—dedication, perseverance, and passion for learning—in pursuit of your dreams.)

The University’s strong showing in the June 2025 LEA underscored its commitment to providing accessible, affordable, and quality education, strengthening its reputation as the country’s leading institutions for aspiring architects.

The licensure exams were held on June 11 and 13 in various PRC testing centers nationwide. Details regarding the oath-taking ceremony of the new architects will be announced later.

_{(Note: English translation and grammar check generated by AI.)}

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PUP and PwC Philippines Forge Strategic Alliance to Empower Future Workforce

Fri, 27 Jun 2025 19:15:00 GMT

Heildenberg Dimarucot, News, Communication Management Office

The Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP) and Isla Lipana & Co. – PwC Philippines solidified their partnership with the ceremonial signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on June 23, 2025, at the Ninoy Aquino University Library and Learning Resource Center (NALLRC), Mabini Campus.

This agreement marks the start of a comprehensive collaboration aimed at co-creating immersive learning experiences that bridge academic theory with real-world practice. Through this partnership, students will gain hands-on exposure to professional environments, better equipping them for a seamless transition into the workforce.

The MOU is a shared commitment to develop joint initiatives, such as industry-led workshops, mentorship programs, and internship placements, that support student growth through practical, real-world experiences guided by seasoned professionals. By aligning PUP’s mission to strengthen industry-academe partnerships with PwC’s purpose of building trust in society and solving important problems, the collaboration aims to produce graduates who are not only technically proficient, but also ethically grounded and socially responsible.

“We are successful not by the amount of what we earn, but from the impact we have with the community,” remarked PwC Philippines Chairman and Senior Partner Roderick Danao, underscoring the firm’s century-long commitment to community engagement and its belief that true corporate success is measured by societal benefit.

The signing ceremony was attended by members of PUP’s executive committee, including Prof. Alberto C. Guillo, Executive Vice President and Vice President for Planning and Finance; Prof. Adam V. Ramillo, Vice President for Administration; Dr. Emanuel C. De Guzman, Vice President for Academic Affairs; Prof. Tomas O. Testor, Vice President for Student Affairs and Services; Dr. Anna Ruby P. Gapasin, Vice President for Research, Extension, and Development; and Dr. Julieta G. Fonte, Dean of the College of Accountancy and Finance. Several faculty members were also present, underscoring the university-wide support and enthusiasm for the newly forged partnership.

Prof. Guillo expressed heartfelt gratitude for the alliance, noting that “with this partnership, students will learn to be more through their hands-on experience” and describing the event as “an inspiration for future collaborations that champion both education and inclusion.” His remarks highlighted PUP’s ongoing commitment to providing equitable, industry-oriented programs that expand students’ competencies beyond the classroom.

Shared Values and Unified Vision
The strong alignment of values between PUP and PwC underpin this partnership.

Integrity and Accountability
PUP’s core values emphasize honesty, ethical conduct, and the responsible stewardship of public trust—principles that closely align with PwC’s global code of ethics and its commitment to responsible business practices.

Excellence through Collaboration
PUP’s mission highlights the importance of strengthening industry-academe linkages to enhance the quality of instruction, research, and extension services. Similarly, PwC prioritizes mentoring and upskilling future leaders to address the demands of an ever-evolving business landscape.

Community Impact
Both institutions share a common belief that education and professional development should serve the greater good, equipping students to make meaningful contributions to society.

This alliance not only advances PUP’s vision of becoming a premier polytechnic university in Asia but also reinforces PwC Philippines’ commitment to developing the next generation of Filipino professionals. Through purposeful collaboration and shared stewardship, PUP and PwC Philippines are set to redefine the model of industry-academe partnership, transforming education into a powerful catalyst for personal growth, social impact, and national development.

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TBIDO conducts SHE(plus)(plus) AI Learning Journey Masterclass and Tech Pitch Fest

Fri, 27 Jun 2025 19:04:00 GMT

Elaine Carie A. Andres, News, Communication Management Office

The Office of the Vice President for Research, Extension, and Development (OVPRED) through the Technology Business Incubation and Development Office (TBIDO) marked its groundbreaking ideas. It took the stage at the SHE++ Masterclass and Startup Pitching Demo on June 19, 2025, at the Bulwagang Balagtas, NALLRC Building. The event featured aspiring technopreneurs—alums of PUP—alongside mentors and students, highlighting a new era of inclusive innovation in Philippine technology.

Empowering Women and Building Shared Value
Assistant to the Vice President for Research, Extension, and Development, Dr. Angelina E. Borican, delivered a message on behalf of the Vice President for Research, Extension, and Development, Dr. Anna Ruby P. Gapasin.

“This program is more than just a workshop or seminar. It is a call to action, a statement of belief in your capabilities, and an opportunity to reimagine your future in science, technology, and innovation,” she said.

PhilDev Foundation’s Executive Director, Frederick Blancas, emphasized the transformative vision behind SHE++:
“Our mission is to inspire and empower Filipinos, especially the youth so that they can actively participate in nation-building through science and technology. We want them to embrace this concept of shared value creation. It’s not just about profit. They can do something good for society and the environment while also ensuring the company’s success. That’s the triple bottom line: people, planet, and profit. The program gives students practical learning on technology that they would usually just learn in the classroom. Here, they gain knowledge from practitioners—not just theory, but the tools to enhance whatever career path they choose,” she expounded.

Man Behind the Curtain: A Testament to Inclusive Innovation
TBIDO Director Engr. Philip P. Ermita underscored the broader impact of the event, stating:
“The success of the first-ever SHE++ Pitch and Demo Day stands as a powerful testament to our TBIDO’s unwavering commitment to advancing inclusive innovation. It reflects not only our dedication to providing a platform for underrepresented groups especially women and gender-diverse innovators—but also our strategic intent to cultivate a more equitable and diverse innovation ecosystem. To build this momentum, we are looking forward to forge stronger partnerships and collaboration with other offices in the university to scale its impact.”

He further emphasized the long-term vision for PUP and the legacy of the program:
“The legacy of SHE++ will be a resilient and inclusive innovation ecosystem, where Filipina tech leaders are not the exception but the expectation. In PUP, we want future generations to look at Filipino youth, especially Filipina innovators, that they also belong at the forefront of technology and AI. Such an event envisions establishing a resilient and inclusive innovation ecosystem in PUP. This is significant among students of PUP since this will be a pathway among its graduates that PUPian can also be an employer after graduation.”

Student Voices: Discovering Relevance and Confidence
For many students, the event was a revelation. Eunice D. Noche, a first-year tourism student, shared:
“Dahil yung palang mga innovations na ginawa po ng, from tourism din po, talagang yung Eco-Coco, and yung AvCheck na nakafocus po siya sa tourism. ”

(Because those innovations made, from tourism as well, really Eco-Coco, and AvCheck which focuses on tourism.)

“Nalaman ko po yung mga possible na tulong po, if ever po sa mga startup lang... Yung skills, yung mga kailangan po namin as tourism, na nakakatulong din po sa other parts of life po namin.”

(I learned about the possible assistance, if ever just for startups... The skills, the things we need as tourism, which also help in other parts of our lives.)

Rhealyn Gotuato, also a first-year tourism student, said: “Speaking of technology po, kasi po sa tourism industry, sa tourism sector, ano na rin po, nag-adapt na rin po yung technology. So kahit po magka-like, o parang naano kami, naligaw, ano pa rin po siya, connected pa rin po siya sa may tourism industry. Kasi nga po yung technology hindi lang naman po sa, nakafocus sa isang sector lang. Kasi yung technology po, diba, ginagamit po talaga siya sa lahat.”

(Speaking of technology, because in the tourism industry, in the tourism sector, technology has also adapted. So even if we get lost or something like that, it is still connected to the tourism industry. Because technology is not just focused on one sector. Because technology is used in almost everything.)

“If ever po na mag-start ako ng business, ganun, meron po palang malalapitan, kasi nga po startup nga po yung, yung nagpo-provide po sila ng parang, ng tulong sa mga nagbi-business. Parang as a student, na malaman nyo ng maaga, sobrang beneficial po rin sa akin.”

(If ever I start a business, like that, there are people I can approach, because they are startups, they provide some kind of help to those who are in business. As a student, knowing it beforehand is really beneficial for me.)

AI, Cloud, and Startup Solutions for Filipino Challenges
The masterclass, led by Dr. Ferdin Joe Joseph of Alibaba Cloud introduced students to the latest advancements in AI, generative models, and cloud solutions. Advanced technology was accessible through hands-on demonstrations and certification opportunities, and local innovators were given opportunities by Alibaba Cloud’s expanding Philippine presence.

The afternoon pitching session saw student teams present innovative business ideas to a panel of judges from PhilDev, Alibaba Cloud, the Department of Science and Technology (DOST), and the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI). Notable pitches included a structured community of companies (Ruvo), direct-to-market rice trading (Anehan), sustainable tourism (Eco-Coco), energy management (ElectrifAI), digital aviation maintenance (AvCheck), instant job matching (Instrabaho), food costing automation (Costify), and business workflow analytics (Cybernest).

Forward and Beyond: A Culture of Collaboration and Impact
As the event concluded, organizers and judges celebrated the students’ passion and creativity, urging them to keep learning and innovating. The SHE++ Tech Pitch Fest at PUP stands as a testament to the power of inclusive innovation—where the voices of mentors, leaders, and students are shaping a future that is brighter, more equitable, and deeply rooted in shared value.

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

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PUP and PPSI reinforces partnership

Thu, 26 Jun 2025 17:54:00 GMT

Jan Vincent Lanuza, News, Communication Management Office

In its commitment to continue supporting student development, the Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP), through the Alumni Relations and Career Development Office (ARCDO), renewed its partnership with the recruitment agency Pierre & Paul Solutions, Inc. (PPSI).

The ceremonial signing of the Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) was held on June 5 at PPSI’s office in One Tower, Shaw Boulevard, Mandaluyong City. The renewed partnership aims to provide students with enhanced opportunities for internships and on-the-job training (OJT).

Also, part of the collaborations was PPSI’s participation in PUP’s career-centered initiatives, including Career Talk, Mock Recruitment, and Job Fair.

PPSI President Ramiro O. Cablao said that continuing this partnership is an “easy decision” to make, citing PUP’s strong national reputation. He emphasized that open communication and a focus on shared goals would be mutually beneficial.

Cablao also commended PUP graduates for their employability and professional qualities. As part of his advice to students, he shared the “7 Musts”: always be kind, do not burn bridges, acquire new skills, develop a personal brand, know your purpose in life, maintain humility, and honor your parents.

ARCDO Director and Assistant Vice President for Student Affairs and Services (AVPSAS) Engr. Florinda H. Oquindo underscored the MOA signing’s significance that this MOA signing, stating that it strengthens industry relationships, enhances the University’s reputation, increases alumni engagement, and positions PUP as a career-ready institution.

“With this reinforced signing with PPSI, it bridges the gap between education and employment, promoting a proactive career mindset among students and positions the university as a career-ready institution in the eyes of industry and students.” Oquindo remarked.

Joining Cablao and Oquindo during the MOA signing were PPSI’s Operations Manager 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.

PUP remains steadfast in its commitment to the Iskolar ng Bayan by forging partnerships with various companies to provide students with career development avenues that support their transition from learners to professionals.

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