Polytechnic University of the Philippines

TechFest 2025 relaunched, envisions a Smart Future Together

Mon, 27 Oct 2025 18:44:00 GMT

Gicel Roger Salvilla, News, Communication Management Office

PUP successfully held the PUP Technology Festival 2025 with the theme “PUP Digital Bayanihan: Fostering a Smart Future Together” at Bulwagang Balagtas, NALLRC, and ICTO Computer Laboratory, from October 14–16, 2025. The three-day event gathered innovators, educators, students, and industry partners in a collaborative effort to strengthen digital transformation, innovation, and technology education.

Innovation Takes the Spotlight at the Grand Opening
The festival opened with inspiring messages from key university leaders and national figures, led by PUP President Dr. Manuel M. Muhi and Senator Paolo Benigno “Bam” Aquino IV, Chairperson of the Senate Committee on Science and Technology. Director Sally C. Mua officially launched the PUP Technology Festival 2025 Overview, emphasizing the university’s commitment to fostering collaboration between the academe and the ICT industry.

The keynote address, delivered by Secretary Henry R. Aguda of the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT), set the tone for the event by emphasizing the importance of Digital Bayanihan in empowering Filipinos through technology and Shaping the Iskolar ng Bayan in Technology, emphasizing the role of students from Iskolar ng Bayan to builders of the digital nation: “In today’s world, being an Iskolar ng Bayan means more than just earning a degree. It means becoming a builder of the nation’s digital future,” he said.

The opening also featured cultural performances by Harana String Company, Bagong Himig Serenata, and the Maharlika Dance Artists, followed by the formal Opening and Ribbon Cutting Ceremony led by Sec. Aguda on the Exhibits at the NALLRC Lobby. Various partner companies showcased cutting-edge technologies, providing attendees with interactive demonstrations and networking opportunities.

Cybersecurity and Hackathon Kick Off Tech Learning
The first series of lecture sessions focused on Cybersecurity, led by experts Reinz Domingo and Rex De Vera, who tackled data protection, network defense, and information security management. Following the lectures, students were oriented for the PUP Hackathon Competition, an interactive challenge that pushed participants to design innovative digital solutions addressing real-world issues. Afterward, the orientation and briefing for Hackathon participants, along with the start of the Exhibit and Booth Hopping for the participants, took place. In the afternoon, lectures on Microsoft 365 Talk for Students and Employees, led by the experts Phillip Ceasar III Dayap and Nolleen Esposo from the Customer Experience Manager, SoftwareOne Philippines, and ended the day with “Partner’s Talk,” led by H3C Technologies Philippines Inc., ISource Asia Business Solutions, and Corporation.

Empowering Digital Inclusion and AI for Education
The festival’s second day highlighted Digital Access and Inclusion, with insights from Kat Solmayor and Kit de Jesus. Discussions centered on bridging the digital divide, ensuring equitable access to technology, and empowering students and employees with inclusive tools for learning and development. The afternoon sessions shifted focus to AI for Education, where speakers such as Prof. Gerald E. Danbada, Chair of DECE of De La Salle University Manila, and Dr. Arvin R. De La Cruz, Chief of OUS Instructional Materials Development, presented strategies for integrating Artificial Intelligence in the classroom.

The session also included the presentation of PUP’s Roadmap for AI, underscoring the university’s commitment to future-ready education. Industry partners, including Banbros Construction Inc. and GOCOM Systems and Solutions Corporation, also shared their expertise through partner talks, enriching participants’ perspectives on AI applications.

Creative Technology and Future Innovations Conclude the Festival
The final day showcased creativity and innovation through the Adobe Creative Cloud Lecture Series, facilitated by Rollan Bañez, the Co-founder/Training Director of Creative Nation Academy Corp. Students and employees learned the latest tools and applications in digital design, content creation, and creative collaboration. During the Closing Ceremony, Assistant Director Severino L. Martinez and Christian G. Ordaniel of the ICTO presented milestone achievements and recognized outstanding participants of the PUP Hackathon Competition. Director Sally C. Mua delivered the closing remarks, commending the collaborative efforts of faculty, students, and partner organizations in making the event a success. The festival concluded with musical and cultural performances celebrating the spirit of PUPian excellence.

Building a Digitally Empowered and Sustainable Future
The PUP Technology Festival 2025 demonstrated the university’s continuous pursuit of innovation, inclusivity, and digital advancement—values that echo the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 4 (Quality Education), SDG 5 (Gender Equality), SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure), SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities), and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals). Through lectures, hackathons, and exhibits, the event became a platform for the PUP community to champion sustainable digital transformation, foster equitable access to technology, and nurture the next generation of Filipino innovators dedicated to building a smarter and more inclusive future for all.

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OUS Academic Building finally unveiled

Mon, 27 Oct 2025 18:39:00 GMT

Brent Soriano, News, Communication Management Office

The Sintang Paaralan celebrated a significant milestone with the blessing and inauguration of the new Open University System (OUS) Academic Building, marking another step toward accessible and inclusive higher education.

Representing University President Manuel M. Muhi, Executive Vice President Alberto C. Guillo delivered a heartfelt message drawn from the President’s letter, which underscored the university’s collective vision.

“This event perfectly reflects our shared aspiration of becoming a leading comprehensive polytechnic university in Asia. The establishment of our OUS Academic Building is a concrete step toward realizing that vision. Through true collaboration and perseverance, we can continue to build a stronger and more inclusive PUP for all,” EVP Guillo conveyed on behalf of President Muhi.

EVP Guillo lightened the moment by humorously referring to the building as a “kingdom,” yet he underscored its deeper meaning — a home and a second chance for learners who aspire to return to their studies despite life’s challenges. The OUS Academic Building stands as a testament to PUP’s unwavering commitment to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 4 (Quality Education), which promotes inclusive and equitable lifelong learning opportunities for all.

Moreover, this milestone reflects SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities) by opening doors to education for individuals who may have been left behind due to socio-economic and geographical barriers. It also supports SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure), through the enhancement of PUP’s academic facilities designed to integrate digital learning and modern pedagogies and instructions.

The event gathered key university officials, including Assoc. Prof. Marianne C. Ortiz, Director of the OUS Institute of Open and Distance Education (IODE), who led the opening prayer; Dr. Emanuel C. De Guzman, Vice President for Academic Affairs, who delivered a message of support; and Fr. Stephen Mifsud, MSSP, University Chaplain, who officiated the blessing of the new building. Also in attendance was Dr. Rudolf Anthony A. Lacerna, Executive Director of the Open University System (OUS). Former Executive Director (2018–2023) and University Professor Dr. Carmencita L. Castolo likewise graced the ceremony. Dr. Castolo was instrumental in the early stages of the project, having sought funding assistance through Hon. Rowena Niña O. Taduran, Undersecretary of the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR), who once served as a course specialist of the OUS.

The blessing of the new OUS Academic Building symbolizes PUP’s dedication to expanding educational access through flexible, technology-driven, and inclusive learning systems—further advancing the university’s role in achieving the UN 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and solidifying its mission as the National Polytechnic University serving the Filipino people.

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DOTR brings discounted Beep cards to PUPians

Fri, 17 Oct 2025 11:13:00 GMT

Jasmine Joson, News, College of Arts and Letters

In partnership with the Department of Transportation (DOTr) and AF Payments Incorporated, the Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP) launched the three-day Concessionary Card Caravan (CCCar) from October 15 to 17, 2025, at the Ninoy Aquino Library and Learning Resources Center.

The caravan aims to provide discounted Beep cards to students, senior citizens, and persons with disabilities (PWDs) within Sintang Paaralan, granting them an automatic 50% fare discount on railways such as the Light Rail Transit (LRT), Metro Rail Transit (MRT), and other partner merchants.

Derived from the Concessionary Card Issuance Project (CCIP), the CCCar streamlines the process of acquiring concessionary cards—making it more accessible and time-efficient for regular university commuters. Previously, applicants had to manually fill out forms at select railway stations, with processing still dependent on slot availability.

The caravan introduced a simplified system beginning with an online registration, where applicants provided their basic information and preferred schedule. Upon receiving confirmation, qualified applicants proceeded to the University Library on their chosen date to complete the following steps: present a valid ID, encode their details through the Concessionary Card Processor (CCP), have their photo taken, sign the acknowledgment form, and pay a one-time processing fee of ?30.

Through this initiative, PUP and its partners have significantly improved the commuting experience of students, senior citizens, and PWDs. The CCCar 2025 not only reduced processing time but also brought essential transport services closer to the University community, exemplifying the spirit of accessibility, convenience, and public service.

A frequent passenger of LRT Line 2 and a student at the PUP Open University System (PUP OUS), Karla Cacapit described the Concessionary Card Caravan as a convenient alternative to her usual commuting experience at the station.

“Availing the beep card is really convenient because I don’t have to line up every day for at least five minutes. Just yesterday, I was stopped by the ticket seller who asked about the validity of my ID—and this happened during rush hour, around 8 a.m. at Shaw Boulevard—so it caused quite a delay for me,” Cacapit shared.

Cacapit’s daily experience mirrors that of many within Sintang Paaralan. Through the implementation of CCCar 2025, students, faculty, and staff now enjoy a more efficient commuting experience that helps improve their productivity and well-being.

This initiative also reinforces the University’s commitment to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 1 (No Poverty) and SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities), as PUP continues to recognize the transportation challenges faced by its constituents. By promoting accessible and affordable mobility, the University contributes to alleviating the daily financial burden of commuting while advancing inclusive, sustainable, and community-centered solutions for all.

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Bayanihan sa Kalusugan: PUP, UNILAB Join Forces for Free Annual Physical Exam for Employees

Fri, 10 Oct 2025 15:12:00 GMT

Heildenberg Dimarucot, News, Communication Management Office

In a two-day medical mission that embodied the true spirit of Bayanihan, the Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP), through its Medical Services Department, partnered with United Laboratories, Inc. (UNILAB) to provide free annual physical examinations to over 500 employees, administrators, staff, security personnel, and student-athletes.

The initiative, part of UNILAB’s 80th anniversary celebration and corporate social responsibility (CSR) program, marked the pharmaceutical company’s first collaboration with a state university for a large-scale holistic health mission. The event offered comprehensive healthcare services, including screening and assessment, laboratory testing, medical consultations, and medicine compliance guidance, ensuring that each participant received a complete and professional evaluation.

Participants saved an estimated ?5,000 worth of medical expenses through the free services, making the program not just a health initiative but a significant act of economic relief for PUP’s workforce. For many employees, the convenience of having such services within the campus meant they no longer needed to take time off work to access quality medical care.

“We are very happy that the University exerts its effort to provide comprehensive medical services for employees like us. We no longer need to file a leave just to get a medical laboratory — it’s already here, accessible and free,” shared one participant.

PUP’s Medical Services Department emphasized that the project reflects its commitment to the health and well-being of the university community, highlighting that accessible and preventive healthcare is vital to sustaining productivity and morale.

“In order to serve better, we must be in our optimum condition — free of any kind of disease. A sound mind must also have a well-nourished body. This must complement each other,” Dr. Liza Yanes, Head of the PUP Medical Services Department.

The collaboration between PUP and UNILAB also reinforces broader national goals under Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 3: Good Health and Well-being, promoting preventive healthcare and workplace wellness. With increasing health risks due to stress and sedentary work patterns, such partnerships between educational institutions and private organizations serve as vital models for inclusive and sustainable healthcare access in the country.

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Swiss visit brings new insights on polytechnic learning in PUP

Wed, 08 Oct 2025 11:38:00 GMT

Felicitas Trinidad, News, Office of International Affairs

The Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP) reaffirmed its commitment to global academic collaboration and vocational education advancement through its participation in the international training program “Skills in Switzerland – Exploring Apprenticeship Excellence” organized and funded by the Swiss Federal University for Vocational Education and Training (SFUVET). The training was held from September 15–19, 2025, in Lausanne and Bern, Switzerland.

Representing PUP were Engr. Ramir M. Cruz, Dean of the Institute of Technology; Engr. Frescian C. Ruiz, Chairperson of the Department of Computer and Electronics Engineering Technology; and Asst. Prof. Felicitas C. Trinidad, Director of the Office of International Affairs. They joined global participants from Kwantlen Polytechnic University (Canada), Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology University (Australia), as well as vocational institutions from Albania, Norway, and El Salvador (Swisscontact).

Highlights of the Training
The week-long program immersed participants in Switzerland’s world-class Vocational Education and Training (VET) system through institutional visits and knowledge exchanges. The delegation gained insights from SFUVET’s dual-track learning model, explored applied business and service innovation practices at the EHL Hospitality Business School, and observed advanced engineering integration at Bobst in Mex.

They also experienced specialized training in watchmaking and precision engineering at the École Technique Vallée de Joux, collaborative construction training at the École de la Construction, and observed the prestigious SwissSkills 2025 competition that showcased excellence in technical professions. The training concluded with discussions at the gibb Berufsfachschule Bern, where participants learned about competency-based education models that directly resonate with PUP’s efforts to update curricula, strengthen industry linkages, and promote applied innovation in engineering and technology.

Strengthening PUP’s Internationalization and Technical Education
Through this training, PUP gained valuable insights to further embed industry-responsive curricula, establish apprenticeship and dual-learning models with partner industries, promote innovation-driven skills competitions, and enhance faculty and student mobility through international cooperation.

Sustaining Cooperation with SFUVET
PUP and SFUVET have committed to deepening their partnership with faculty mobility programs beginning in 2026, alongside possible collaborative research, student mobility, and capacity-building initiatives. These efforts position PUP as a leader in applied research and technical education in the Philippines, equipping graduates with competencies to thrive in the global workforce. This collaboration, supported by Marina Grolimund, Advisor for International Relations at SFUVET, reflects the University’s dedication to fostering excellence in vocational and professional education.

The PUP-SFUVET partnership strongly aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly SDG 4: Quality Education, by advancing equitable, relevant, and future-ready learning opportunities; SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth, by preparing students with employable skills and industry-aligned training; and SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals, through international collaboration that drives innovation and knowledge exchange. By building global networks and embedding best practices into its programs, PUP continues to champion education that empowers individuals and supports sustainable national development.

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YECE 2025: Stories of grit, service to the nation, and commitment to excellence

Wed, 08 Oct 2025 11:37:00 GMT

Brent Soriano, News, Communication Management Office

Four more clusters march as the Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP) held its Year-end Commencement Exercises on September 18–19, 2025 at the PUP Gymnasium, celebrating the achievements of graduates across various colleges and institutes.

On September 18, the ceremonies honored graduates from the College of Architecture, Design, and the Built Environment (CADBE) and the College of Engineering (CE) under Cluster 5. Cluster 6 followed, featuring graduates from the College of Tourism, Hospitality, and Transportation Management (CTHTM) and the Institute of Technology (ITech).

On September 19, attention shifted to Cluster 7, featuring graduates from the College of Political Science and Public Administration (CPSPA) and the College of Social Sciences and Development (CSSD). The ceremonies concluded with Cluster 8, which brought together graduates from the College of Human Kinetics (CHK) and the College of Education (COED).

Honoring Values and Service
The ceremonies were marked by inspirational messages from distinguished guests, each emphasizing values that should guide the graduates in their next journeys.

Ronald Laurel, an advocate for green technologies and current private sector regent of the PUP Board of Regents, reminded the graduates of the importance of gratitude and family. He stressed that true PUPians must carry with them a strong work ethic, trainability, a humble mindset, and team-oriented values. Laurel also urged them to keep “a heart that serves everyone and the nation.”

Echoing the values of resilience, Dr. Lilibeth Aragon of Lyceum of the Philippines University highlighted the enduring strength of the PUP spirit. “We may come from different times, but we are bound by the same fighting spirit. The same stubborn hope, the same belief that no obstacle is too great when we carry with us the values of Sintang Paaralan,” she said.

This call to perseverance was complemented by Hon. Lord Arnel “LA” Ruanto, municipal mayor of Infanta, Quezon, who reminded graduates that blessings are meant to be shared. “Ang pagiging pinagpala ay hindi lamang para angkinin, higit sa lahat ito ay para ibahagi, tulad ng ilaw na nagbibigay-liwanag sa kapwa, sa kabataan, at sa buong bayan,” he remarked. (Being blessed is not only for one’s own claim, but more importantly, it is for sharing — like a light that gives brightness to others, to the youth, and to the whole community)

Laurel, Aragon, and Ruanto are all notable alumni of the Sintang Paaralan. Regent Laurel is a proud engineering graduate, while Dean Aragon comes from the tourism program and business administration graduate studies cohort of the University. Mayor Ruanto completed an Industrial and Organization Psychology degree from PUP.

Meanwhile, Sec. Jose Francisco “Kiko” B. Benitez, TESDA director-general, tied these values to education and nation-building. He emphasized that knowledge should not remain theoretical but must be applied in meaningful ways. “Knowledge should extend beyond the head, transform into action through the heart and hands, and be guided by passion in service of the people,” he said.

Lessons from the Valedictorians
The valedictory addresses of outstanding graduates captured the spirit of determination, hope, and reflection that defined this year’s commencement exercises.

For Yi Man Eillen Chan, BS Electronics Engineering, success means embracing both triumphs and setbacks. In her speech, she introduced an acronym inspired by the word “engineer,” encouraging young professionals to live by it: “E stands for Embrace failure. N for Never settle. G for Good things take time. And R for Relax because even amid striving, we must remember to breathe.” Chan reminded her fellow graduates that setbacks are part of the journey and that perseverance, coupled with balance, is key to sustainable growth.

Jeryhk Danielle Dar Juan, BS Tourism Management, spoke about the courage needed to face uncertainties after graduation. “Behind fear is power and that power is within us,” he declared. He went on to encourage his peers to believe in their capacity to overcome, saying, “We have the power to rise and to journey.” His words called on graduates to see fear not as a hindrance but as a catalyst for empowerment and self-discovery.

Meanwhile, Neil Jayvee G. Del Rosario of BS Psychology delivered a sobering yet profound reminder on the true limits of resilience. “Resilience teaches us to adapt and to survive,” he reflected. “But resilience should not be mistaken as an endless expectation.” The message underscored the importance of balance, reminding graduates that while resilience is essential in overcoming life’s challenges, it should not come at the cost of one’s well-being. He cautioned that the pressure of constant endurance must be met with self-care and compassion, reminding them that resilience should not come at the cost of exhaustion.

Alliah Faulin Bondoc, a BS Physical Education graduate and UNIFAST Academic Excellence Awardee (given only to the graduating student who earned the highest GPA in the university), emphasized the enduring importance of physical education in the college curriculum. Bondoc shared that beyond physical fitness, “PE teaches us discipline, confidence, and teamwork.” Indeed, these are qualities that students carry into both their academic journey and future careers. She also expressed her hope that physical education will continue to be present in all schools, underscoring its role in shaping well-rounded individuals.

On Pursuing Advanced Studies
Dr. Ethel Agnes Pascua-Valenzuela, Chair of the PUP Board of Regents and Commissioner of the Commission on Higher Education (CHED), graced the Commencement Exercises of the College of Human Kinetics (CHK) and the College of Education (COED). She led in recognizing the UNIFAST Academic Excellence Awardee and also delivered congratulatory remarks to the graduates.

In her address, she noted the value of lifelong learning, encouraging future educators and professionals to pursue advanced studies to remain relevant in a rapidly changing global landscape. “The world needs proactive thinkers. PUP graduates are truly proactive thinkers,” she affirmed, recognizing the university’s vital role in shaping graduates who are both competent and visionary. She further emphasized that knowledge knows no bounds, leaving graduates with both a challenge and an inspiration to continue expanding their horizons through higher learning.

PUP Affirms Commitment to SDGs
The commencement speeches reflected how the Sintang Paaralan resonates with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Calls for gratitude, humility, and service highlighted the importance of peace, justice, and strong institutions (SDG 16), while reminders of resilience and hope emphasized the value of quality education (SDG 4). On the other hand, messages on sharing blessings are aligned with building sustainable communities (SDG 11) and insights on practical knowledge and technical-vocational skills supported industry, innovation, and infrastructure (SDG 9). Altogether, the speeches affirmed that PUP’s mission is not only to produce graduates of competence and integrity but also to nurture nation-building individuals, who will potentially contribute to sustainable development.

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Psych GS Program leads Family Strengthening ToT in Zamboanga

Tue, 30 Sep 2025 14:19:00 GMT

Dr. Geraldine F. Santos, Dr. Aimee Rosa R. Manda, News, PUP Graduate School

Dr. Aimee Rosa R. Manda and Dr. Geraldine F. Santos, chairpersons of the PhD and Master of Psychology programs at the Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP), respectively, led a pivotal Training of Trainers (ToT) for the FAMILY United Programme from September 9 to 11, 2025. Their roles as lead trainers underscore PUP’s significant contribution to national community development and evidence-based family interventions.

The event, spearheaded by the Department of Health (DOH) and the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), equipped a new cohort of professionals to deliver the FAMILY United Programme—an initiative designed to strengthen parenting and family dynamics in low- and middle-income communities.

Through expert facilitation, Dr. Manda and Dr. Santos guided participants in mastering practical skills to engage both caregivers and children in interactive, participatory learning sessions. Their leadership was instrumental in preparing attendees to become effective advocates and facilitators within their own communities.

The training yielded significant, tangible outcomes:

Establishing a Facilitator Network: A new pool of certified trainers is now prepared to roll out the program at the grassroots level.
Enhancing Professional Competence: Participants strengthened their capabilities in delivering evidence-based, family-centered interventions.
Strengthening Collaboration: The event fostered stronger partnerships among health professionals, educators, and government agencies, creating a unified front for family support.

This initiative marks a key milestone in PUP’s mission to extend its expertise beyond the classroom and directly impact community well-being across the Philippines.

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PUP Receives the Prestigious Philippine Quality Award

Mon, 29 Sep 2025 17:26:00 GMT

Heildenberg Dimarucot, News, Communication Management Office

In a resounding affirmation of its steadfast commitment to organizational excellence, the Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP) has proudly achieved the Level 2 award of the Philippine Quality Award (PQA). This prestigious “Recognition for Proficiency in Quality Management” is not merely an accolade; it’s a testament to PUP’s significant strides in building and refining sound, systematic processes that have propelled it to the forefront of Philippine higher education. The PQA, the country’s highest honor for organizational performance, is modeled after the Malcolm Baldrige National Quality Award of the United States. It assesses institutions on a four-level framework: Level 1 (Commitment to Quality Management), Level 2 (Proficiency in Quality Management), Level 3 (Mastery in Quality Management), and Level 4 (The Philippine Quality Award for Performance Excellence). PUP’s achievement of Level 2 places it among a select group of organizations that have demonstrated sound, well-deployed processes across all facets of their operations.

A Foundation of Proven Excellence
PUP’s edge in securing the award stemmed from a holistic approach with demonstrable outcomes. Academically, the university’s quality assurance mechanisms have yielded a dramatic surge in licensure exam topnotchers, leaping from three in 2021 to 28 in 2023. Operationally, a commitment to innovation led to the creation of the revolutionary One-Stop-Shop system, which drastically reduced student registration time from 20 days to just one.

This efficiency is underpinned by a robust ICT modernization, including the eQAR system for real-time performance tracking. Beyond its walls, PUP’s profound societal impact through initiatives like the “Education-on-Wheels” program, coupled with impeccable ethical governance evidenced by a 99% utilization of its 2023 budget, solidified its standing. The university’s strategic investment in human capital through systematic training and performance management further cemented the foundation for this achievement.

The Roadmap to Mastery: A Pathway for Growth
While celebrating this milestone, the PUP administration is already charting its course toward the pinnacle of Level 3, “Mastery in Quality Management.” The detailed PQA evaluation report provided a clear roadmap, identifying key areas for refinement. The primary opportunity lies in strengthening the cycles of systematic review and evaluation. While PUP’s processes are proficient, the next step is to institutionalize rigorous, evidence-based assessments of their effectiveness to ensure continuous adaptation and improvement.

Furthermore, achieving mastery will require enhancing data completeness and comparative analysis. This involves presenting a more comprehensive set of metrics — from workforce climate statistics to market performance indicators—and benchmarking PUP’s stellar results against similar institutions to fully contextualize its performance. Finally, the university aims to create greater clarity in linking its long-term University Development Plan to short-term action plans, ensuring every operational activity demonstrably contributes to strategic goals. PQA’s recommendations are positioned not as criticisms but as strategic opportunities for growth, further strengthening PUP’s robust systems and advancing them toward a model of sustained excellence.

This milestone is more than an institutional triumph — it is a national recognition of PUP’s culture of quality and excellence, standing as a beacon of resilience and progress in Philippine higher education. As the university continues to honor its motto, “Mula Sa ’Yo, Para Sa Bayan,” the Philippine Quality Award Level 2 recognition becomes both a legacy of its past and a promise for the future: a pledge to uphold excellence in service, guided by the principles of accountability, transparency, and people-centered development.

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First batch of Education on Wheels graduates earn degrees in Office Administration

Sat, 20 Sep 2025 16:38:00 GMT

Jan Vincent Lanuza, News, Communication Management Office

The Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP) marked a groundbreaking achievement in the 2025 Year End Commencement Exercises as the first batch of Education on Wheels (EOW) students from Smokey Mountain, Tondo, Manila received their diplomas.

During the undergraduate commencement rites of the PUP Open University System on September 20, fifty-one (51) Education on Wheels (EOW) students enrolled in the Bachelor of Science in Office Administration (BSOA) program marched after four years of learning in the EOW mobile classroom.

Commencement speaker Milalin Javellana, Program Director of the Australia Awards and Alumni Engagement Program – Philippines and one of the main benefactors of the EOW advocacy project through the Australian Awards Alumni Grant Scheme, emphasized the values that the Iskolar ng Bayan have gained throughout their studies.

“Dear graduates, the knowledge [and] the wisdom that you have gained, is not just the modules and the lessons that you have finished, or the exams that you have passed, it is the discipline, the sacrifice, and the perseverance,” Javellana said.

She further urged the graduates to embrace the advantages provided by innovation and technology to foster learning and development—with a condition to use it properly and ethically.

The EOW graduates expressed gratitude for the University’s program, which gave them the opportunity to believe that finishing college is possible. One of them, Norie Ann T. Nicole, shared that simply graduating was already an overwhelming experience.

“Hindi hadlang ang kahirapan, parang ito ang magiging sandata mo. Kahit nahihirapan ka, i-push mo lang lalo na at may mga sumusuporta sa iyo,” added Danica Legaspi, an EOW graduate who managed to complete her studies while also fulfilling her responsibilities as a mother.

(Poverty is not a hindrance; in fact, it can be your weapon. Even if things are difficult, just keep pushing forward—especially since there are people supporting you.)

For John Andrew V. Dela Cruz, the achievement serves as a call to give back and help more Filipinos attain quality and accessible education through EOW. He shared, “katulad na lang din ng Education on Wheels na sila ang pumunta sa amin sa Tondo para bigyan kami ng aral, ganoon din ang gagawin ko sa mga kabataan.”

(Just like Education on Wheels, which came to us in Tondo to give us lessons, I will also do the same for the youth.)

The success of EOW highlights PUP’s commitment to providing affordable tertiary education to Filipinos and empowering them to rise above poverty. This initiative aligns with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goal 4: ensuring inclusive and equitable quality education and promoting lifelong learning opportunities for all.

Continuous search for EOW potential partners
Education on Wheels (EOW) program through the Communication Management Office (CMO), is continuously searching for potential partners that can help fulfill the dreams of aspiring learners to finish a four-year degree in PUP.

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The Unstoppable Para-Swimmer

Sat, 20 Sep 2025 12:13:00 GMT

Heildenberg Dimarucot, News, Communication Management Office

The water isn’t just a medium for Justine Oliveros; it is a sanctuary of pure, unburdened freedom. In the pool, the weight of the world dissolves, replaced by the rhythmic surge of his powerful strokes and the unwavering determination in his eyes. A 19-year-old from the scenic town of Cavinti in Laguna, and now a Bachelor of Physical Education student at Sintang Paaralan, Justine’s journey to becoming an acclaimed para-swimmer is a testament to a spirit that refuses to be defined by limits.

The youngest of nine siblings, Justine’s connection to water humbly began in his seventh grade. At first, swimming was nothing more than recreation—a survival skill learned with friends and family. He found joy in mastering each new technique and took pride in the effort it required. Then came the pivotal moment: a coach recognized the spark of his potential beneath the surface and invited him to try para-swimming—not just as an activity, but as a path toward competition. Justine embraced the challenge wholeheartedly. He didn’t just participate; he fell deeply in love with the sport. Every training session became a sacred commitment, a chance to push harder, swim faster, and grow stronger. Day after day, without complaint, he gave nothing less than his best.

Perseverance became his anchor. Born with one leg and incomplete fingers, Justine never allowed his disability to dictate his future. He built his philosophy on an unwavering belief: train hard, follow the plan diligently, commit with focus, and anything is possible. The path was not without hardship. Mockery and doubt from others could have broken his spirit, but instead, Justine drew strength from an unshakable support system—friends and family whose faith in him became both his armour and his fuel.

From casual strokes in a Laguna pool, Justine’s passion carried him to competitions beyond his hometown. What once sparked ridicule has transformed into victories that silence doubt. Medals and awards now stand as symbols of more than athletic skill; they embody his unbreakable will, relentless determination, and tireless work ethic. For Justine, para-swimming is not just a sport—it is joy, purpose, and proof that disability can never drown a dream.

A para-swimmer moves through the water—and through life—with a powerful message etched in every stroke: barriers are often illusions. With the right attitude to see possibilities, a determined mind that refuses to quit, and a grateful heart that draws strength from love, one can move forward against any current. In the pool and beyond, Justine Oliveros shows that when these forces converge, the rewards, like the finish line, are always within reach. He is not merely swimming races; he is charting a course of pure, unstoppable inspiration.

Justine’s journey in the pool is more than a personal triumph—it is a living blueprint for a more inclusive and equitable world. His story illustrates that the Sustainable Development Goals are not isolated targets but interconnected pillars of human progress. By fostering Good Health and Well-Being (SDG 3) through the discipline of sport, he also advances Quality Education (SDG 4), proving that equitable learning environments are the foundation of talent and leadership. Together, these achievements serve as powerful tools for Reducing Inequalities (SDG 10), transforming perceptions through participation and breaking down systemic barriers with every medal won.

Justine’s legacy, therefore, is measured not only in records but also in the enduring idea that a truly healthy, educated, and just society is one where every individual is given the opportunity to thrive.

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