Polytechnic University of the Philippines

OVPRED, PIDS Host 10th SERP-P Forum on Rethinking Education Governance Through Research

Wed, 13 Aug 2025 16:05:00 GMT

Gicel Roger Salvilla, News, Communication Management Office

The Philippine Institute for Development Studies (PIDS), in partnership with the Office of the Vice President for Research, Extension, and Development (OVPRED), successfully hosted the 10th Socio-Economic Research Portal for the Philippines (SERP-P) Knowledge-Sharing Forum on August 5. The event took place at Bulwagang Bonifacio, NALLRC Building, PUP Sta. Mesa, Manila, and was also streamed via Zoom and Facebook Live.

Titled “Rethinking Education Governance Through Research,” the forum gathered educators, researchers, and policymakers to explore how evidence-based studies can strengthen the country’s education governance. The program opened with a warm welcome from PIDS President Dr. Philip Arnold P. Tuano, followed by a message from PUP President Dr. Manuel M. Muhi.

The forum featured three insightful presentations: PIDS’ Jenard D. Berroya discussed “Mapping Excellence in Teacher Education: The Role of Centers of Excellence in Teacher Quality”; Dr. Diosdado M. San Antonio of SEAMEO-INNOTECH shared “Learning-Focused and Future-Oriented School-Based Management”; and Dr. Jose Reuben Q. Alagaran II, Dean of the PUP College of Communication, presented “From Campuses to Communities: Institutionalizing Advocacy Hubs for Sustainable Impact.”

After the presentations, Dr. Ricky R. Rosales, Associate Professor at PUP, moderated the panel discussion and Q&A session. The conversation explored key education policies, particularly the roles of Centers of Excellence (COEs) and Centers of Development (CODs) in Teacher Education Institutions (TEIs) across the Philippines. Discussions also underscored the importance of establishing Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) Hubs in universities and increasing budget allocations for research and extension projects at all educational levels.

Participants, both onsite and online, actively exchanged insights, offering diverse perspectives and collaborative solutions for reimagining the future of Philippine education. The forum reaffirmed the shared commitment of PIDS and PUP to advance quality education through research-driven policies and practices. Anchored on PUP’s core value of Passion for Learning and Innovation, the event not only strengthened the culture of knowledge exchange but also supported the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals — particularly SDG 4: Quality Education and SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals — by fostering collaboration and innovation in education governance.

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UCCA, Otsuka Solar PH Ink Partnership for CaraBand

Tue, 12 Aug 2025 17:22:00 GMT

Ron Emil Sigua, News, University Center for Culture and the Arts

The Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP), through the University Center for Culture and the Arts (UCCA), formally entered into a cultural partnership with Otsuka Solar PH during a virtual Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) signing ceremony held on July 24, 2025.

The partnership aims to foster artistic collaboration, talent development, and international engagement through the upcoming University CaraBand project.

Present at the signing were PUP President Dr. Manuel M. Muhi, Vice President for Student Affairs and Services Dr. Tomas Testor, UCCA Director Bely Ygot, UCCA Music Chief Hemmady Mora, and UCCA Dance and Drama Chief Alyssa Resurreccion. Representing Otsuka Solar PH were its President and official signatory, Ken Saito, along with his team.

The highlight of the collaboration is the CaraBand, a battle of the bands set for September, which will provide PUP student bands a platform to showcase their musical talent. Pocari Sweat, a product under Otsuka, will serve as the event’s official hydration partner.

The winning PUP band will advance to the Inter-University CaraBand competition. The overall champion will receive seven months of mentorship from a professional band coach or artist, an introduction to a music label, and an all-expense-paid concert experience in Japan in 2026.

President Muhi expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership, reaffirming PUP’s commitment to producing well-rounded students through meaningful cultural engagements. This collaboration between UCCA and Otsuka Solar PH underscores the power of music to unite communities and promote artistic excellence beyond borders.

This initiative supports SDG 4: Quality Education, SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth, and SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals by empowering student talent, creating opportunities in the creative industries, and establishing global collaboration.

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"Usap Tayo, Bayan Muna" Forum Promotes Media and Information Literacy Among PUP Students

Mon, 11 Aug 2025 11:36:00 GMT

Sonny M. Versoza, News, Communication Management Office

In an effort to promote media and information literacy among young Filipinos, the Presidential Communications Office (PCO) of the Office of the President held a forum titled “Usap Tayo, Bayan Muna” on August 1, 2025, at the Bulwagang Balagtas, Ninoy Aquino Library and Learning Resources Center, Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP) A. Mabini Campus.

The event featured Undersecretary Atty. Claire Castro of the PCO as the guest speaker, engaging students from the PUP Laboratory High School (LHS) and Senior High School (SHS) in a timely and relevant discussion on the importance of responsible media consumption in the age of widespread disinformation. The initiative seeks to arm the youth with critical thinking skills, fact-checking tools, and civic awareness to counter the rapid spread of fake news and misleading narratives.

“Kayong mga kabataan ang may kapangyarihan. Ang boses ninyo, kapag nagsama-sama kayo para sa katotohanan, ay kayang labanan ang fake news. Kayo ang may power na i-shape ang kinabukasan ng bansa,” said Usec. Castro as she emphasized the role of young citizens in upholding truth and shaping the future of the nation. (The youth have the power. Your voices, united in the pursuit of truth, can stand against fake news. You have the power to shape the future of our nation.)

One of the central topics addressed during the forum was the spread of disinformation surrounding the West Philippine Sea dispute, which was presented as a case study on how media narratives can shape public perception and impact national interest.

In attendance were Vice President for Research, Extension and Development Dr. Anna Ruby P. Gapasin, PUP Senior High School Principal Assoc. Prof. Michelle Sotto, PUP Laboratory High School Principal Assoc. Prof. Christine A. Del Rosario, and other LHS and SHS officials, demonstrating the University’s strong commitment to supporting national efforts in fostering informed and empowered citizenship among students.

Grounded in the values of truth, civic responsibility, and patriotism, “Usap Tayo, Bayan Muna” serves as a call to action for the Filipino youth to be vigilant, discerning, and proactive in the digital landscape. This advocacy aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 4 (Quality Education), by promoting media literacy and lifelong learning, and SDG 16 (Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions), by promoting active citizenship and stronger democracies through access to reliable information.

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PUPMBT Bagged 1st Runner-Up at Cheng Hoo International Tournament in Jakarta Indonesia

Tue, 05 Aug 2025 14:26:00 GMT

Heildenberg Dimarucot, News, Communication Management Office

The Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP) men’s basketball team returned to Manila with new laurels after bagging the first runner-up in the under-25 category of the Cheng Hoo International Basketball Tournament, held July 13–20, 2025, in Jakarta, Indonesia. Invited as one of six elite universities, PUP showcased the depth of its grassroots program and the promise of Filipino talent on the Asian stage.

PUP’s journey to Jakarta was secured when they captured the championship at the State Colleges and Universities Athletic Association (SCUAA) nationals in early 2025. This victory reflects the strength of PUP’s grassroots sports development program, which nurtures talent from age-group clinics to intercollegiate competitions, ultimately feeding into the national training pool.

“Our participation is not just a measure of our hard work and determination against our Southeast Asian peers, it also serves to deepen international ties through the spirit of sport,” said Ron Hubbard, Director of the Sports Development Program Office (SDPO). “Still, the safety and well-being of our athletes remain our top priority as we prepare them for the 2025 University Games in Bacolod,” he added.

On the court, PUP stood out with explosive fast breaks, relentless defense, and unwavering teamwork. Their runner-up finish against the host nation’s basketball powerhouses not only highlighted their competitive edge but also validated the strength of PUP’s athlete development pipeline. This breakthrough represents not just a victory on the court, but a firm commitment to Sustainable Development Goal 3: ensuring healthy lives and promoting well-being for all at all ages.

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NPC and PAGCOR donate wheelchairs, ambulance to PUP

Mon, 04 Aug 2025 17:38:00 GMT

Brent Soriano, News, Communication Management Office

In its monthly flag raising ceremony, the Polytechnic University of the Philippines unveiled the newly donated patient transport vehicle or ambulance from the Philippine Amusement and Games Corporation (PAGCOR) and the first batch of eight wheelchairs from the National Press Club (NPC). University President Dr. Manuel M. Muhi thanked the donors during his August 4 speech at the University Avenue.

“Ang ambulansyang ito at mga wheelchair ay napakahalagang karagdagan sa ating medical emergency response capabilities, lalo na sa mga pagkakataong may pangangailangan sa agarang medikal na atensyon,” Dr. Muhi shared in his speech.

(“This ambulance and the wheelchairs are a vital addition to our medical emergency response capabilities, especially in situations where there is a need for immediate medical attention.”)

This is the first time the University acquired an ambulance and multiple wheelchairs to support the medical needs and emergency concerns of the PUP community.

Leonel Abasola, President of the National Press Club (NPC), noted that this donation to PUP is unique. “Typically, individuals requesting a wheelchair are required to submit a photo to justify their need. However, this donation is specifically intended for emergency use,” he explained.

This initiative aligns with the university’s goal of ensuring that each floor of every building is equipped with a standby wheelchair, ready to provide immediate assistance when needed.

Dr. Ma. Liza Yanes, Director of the Medical Services Department, highlighted the significance of the donation, stating, “The ambulance is well-suited for emergency situations, as it is being equipped with essential medical tools and equipment.”

She added, “This vehicle provides crucial support to our campus health services, especially given the high number of sports-related injuries reported within the university.”

The donated ambulance and wheelchairs reflect a shared commitment to safeguarding lives and promoting the well-being of the entire PUP community. This initiative aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being, and SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals. By strengthening the university’s emergency response capabilities and demonstrating the power of institutional collaboration, the project serves as a model for inclusive and impactful health solutions.

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CAF Faculty and Students Elected to National Leadership Roles

Tue, 29 Jul 2025 18:47:00 GMT

Mark Anecito R. Perlas, News, College of Accountancy and Finance

Faculty members and students from the College of Accountancy and Finance (CAF) have been appointed and elected to national leadership positions within the professional accounting and finance community, marking another significant contribution of the Polytechnic University of the Philippines to the country’s financial education and professional development landscape.

Pursuant to Resolution No. 46, Series of 2025 of the Professional Regulatory Board of Accountancy (PRBOA) of the Professional Regulation Commission (PRC), Prof. Noel A. Bergonia, Chairperson of the Accountancy Department, and Asst. Prof. Mark Anecito R. Perlas were designated as Continuing Professional Development (CPD) Monitors.

They join a select group of 15 accounting educators across the Philippines entrusted with ensuring the quality of CPD activities for accredited Accountancy programs. The oath-taking was held on July 7, 2025, via Zoom, administered by Hon. Noe G. Quiñanola, Chair of the PRBOA and the CPD Council for Accountancy.

In addition to this designation, Asst. Prof. Perlas was elected Assistant Secretary of the National Association of Certified Public Accountants in Education (NACPAE), while Assoc. Prof. Editha A. Peralta was elected as National Sectoral Director for Education of the Philippine Institute of Certified Public Accountants (PICPA) for Fiscal Year 2025-2026. Their appointments reflect sustained engagement in strengthening the academic and professional community.

Meanwhile, two student leaders from the college were also elected to the highest positions in their respective national student organizations. Dana Crisella R. Cabaña, a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration major in Financial Management student, is now the National President of the Junior Confederation of Finance Associations – Philippines (JCFAP). Carl Chedreck R. Villanueva, a Bachelor of Science in Accountancy student, was elected National President of the National Federation of Junior Philippine Institute of Accountants (NFJPIA). Both will serve for Academic Year 2025-2026, leading student-driven initiatives that support academic excellence and leadership development in the fields of accountancy and finance.

These recent appointments highlight the caliber and dedication of PUP’s educators and students in contributing to the realization of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) particularly SDG 4: Quality Education, SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth, and SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals, through playing an active role in the advancement of accounting and finance education and practice in the Philippines.

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PMO Conducts Workshop on Strategic Procurement Planning Under New Reform Act

Tue, 29 Jul 2025 12:14:00 GMT

Heildenberg Dimarucot, News, Communication Management Office

The Procurement Management Office (PMO) spearheaded a two-day training workshop on July 17–18, 2025, at the Bayview Park Hotel Manila aimed at preparing its procurement staff for the evolving landscape of public expenditure.

The intensive workshop focused on Republic Act No. 12009, also known as the Government Procurement Reform Act, with particular emphasis on the significant shift toward Strategic Procurement Planning (SPP). The training sought to equip participants with the knowledge and tools needed to align procurement practices with the latest legal and policy reforms.

This workshop forms a critical component of PUP’s three-year roadmap to modernize its procurement systems. Designed to support a seamless transition from the old framework under Republic Act No. 9184, the initiative aimed to clarify the implementation of SPP as outlined in Rule II of the Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR) of Republic Act No. 12009. In addition, it offered an in-depth discussion of the various modes of procurement detailed in Rule V of the IRR.

“The nuances of RA 12009 are not optional—they are essential to our operational excellence and fiduciary responsibility,” said Tomas O. Testor, Vice President for Student Affairs and Services.

“This training was specifically developed to educate everyone involved in PUP’s procurement ecosystem—from project initiators and end-users to technical working groups and Bids and Awards Committee (BAC) members—on the critical updates introduced by the new law compared to RA 9184,” VP Testor added.

His remarks were echoed by Prof. Alberto C. Guillo, Executive Vice President and Vice President for Planning and Finance, who emphasized that full understanding is the first step toward achieving compliance and long-term optimization of the university’s procurement processes.

Beyond Compliance: Promoting Ethical Stewardship
Budget Services Director Queen D. Franda emphasized that SPP under RA 12009 goes beyond mere compliance.

“By planning strategically, identifying needs early, and selecting the most appropriate procurement methods, we tackle long-standing inefficiencies head-on. This allows us to maximize the value of our limited financial and physical resources, ensuring that every peso benefits the university and its stakeholders,” she said.

The training delivered a clear and unifying message: all members of the PUP procurement community share in the responsibility of ensuring that procurement processes are conducted lawfully, ethically, and efficiently. This sense of collective accountability directly supports Strategic Goal No. 8 of the University Development Plan, the responsible and transparent management of physical and financial resources, and reinforces PUP’s broader commitment to integrity, ethical stewardship, and good governance in public service.

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URMO Holds Sustainable Records and Archival Management Training

Thu, 17 Jul 2025 16:45:00 GMT

Brent Soriano, News, Communication Management Office

The second installment of the 2025 Faculty and Staff Development (FSD) Series took place on July 15 via Microsoft Teams. Titled “Electronic Records Management, Digital Preservation, Digitization, Digital Libraries, and Institutional Repositories,” the session featured Associate Professor Stephen Alayon of West Visayas State University — a distinguished licensed professional teacher, registered librarian, and information professional.

Organized as part of the university’s ongoing efforts to enhance digital competence among its academic and administrative workforce, the lecture by Associate Professor Alayon provided a comprehensive overview of how institutions like PUP can strengthen its digital infrastructure to ensure the long-term accessibility, integrity, and visibility of records and scholarly works.

Alayon highlighted the critical role of Electronic Records Management (ERM), describing it as “a process that involves managing records in their entirety.” By adopting effective ERM and digitization practices, PUP can achieve greater transparency, efficiency, and sustainability within its information systems — key elements in building institutional resilience and driving modernization.

These initiatives also support the university’s commitment to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly SDG 4 (Quality Education) by improving access to learning resources, and SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure) through technological integration. Furthermore, such efforts position PUP as a future-ready institution dedicated to inclusive and innovative education.

Alayon further emphasized that for PUP to join the ASEAN University Network Inter-Library Online (AUNILO), establishing its own institutional repository is a foundational step. Creating this repository will not only increase the university’s academic visibility but also foster collaboration, resource sharing, and stronger engagement with ASEAN institutions and universities. This development will enable PUP to play a more active role in promoting accessible, innovative, and sustainable higher education throughout the region.

As part of the series, URMO will continue to conduct upcoming sessions focused on digital preservation.

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Architecture alumnus Royal Pineda honored as 2025 Global Filipino Architect

Thu, 17 Jul 2025 16:40:00 GMT

Brent Soriano, News, Communication Management Office

Architect Royal Pineda, a graduate of the Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP) Class of 1997, was recently recognized as the 2025 Global Filipino Architect by the United Architects of the Philippines – Dubai Chapter.

Pineda received the honor for his outstanding contributions to the field of architecture, particularly for promoting a modern Filipino design ethos that merges cultural heritage with sustainability and contemporary innovation. His work, known for its clean lines, use of native materials, and sensitivity to local contexts, has gained increasing recognition both in the Philippines and abroad.

As a point of interest for the PUP community, Architect Royal Pineda is the creative force behind the design of the current PUP Gymnasium located at the A. Mabini Campus in Sta. Mesa. The structure stands as a lasting testament to his commitment to nation-building through architecture — embodying his vision of functional, culturally rooted design, right at the heart of Sintang Paaralan.

PUP recognizes Architect Royal Pineda’s emergence as a leading voice in redefining Filipino architecture — championing a design philosophy that reflects national identity while aligning with global standards. His work mirrors the University’s mission to cultivate future generations of architects and designers who are dedicated to nation-building, creativity, and global engagement. This vision supports PUP’s contribution to achieving Sustainable Development Goal 11: building resilient, inclusive, and sustainable cities and communities. Pineda’s accomplishments stand as a powerful example of the kind of excellence fostered at PUP — one that resonates far beyond the walls of the University.

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PUP secures 250th spot in Global 400 for WURI 2025

Mon, 14 Jul 2025 15:03:00 GMT

Brent Soriano, News, Communication Management Office

The Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP) has once again achieved international recognition by earning a place in the 2025 World University Rankings for Innovation (WURI). PUP ranked 250th out of the top 400 most innovative universities worldwide, selected from a pool of 1,253 institutions. The ranking was a significant improvement from previous year’s 271st maiden participation in WURI.

The university also received notable distinctions in key innovation categories, ranking 5th in Cost-Benefit Management, 41st in Technology Development and Application, and 6th in Funding for Sustainability — placing among the top 100 universities globally in each category.

These achievements underscore the strength of PUP’s flagship programs. In Cost-Effectiveness Management, the university was recognized for its Flexible Technology-Enhanced Learning (FLEXTEL) program, which promotes inclusive, technology-driven education.

In the category of Technology Development and Application, PUP earned distinction for its AI Ethics and Governance Research Program and HEATWATCH (Climheat) — a wellness monitoring system powered by artificial intelligence. The university was also acknowledged in Funding for Sustainability through initiatives such as the electronic Quarterly Accomplishment Report (eQAR) and the PUP/PWC Sustainable Learning Factory, both of which advance financial sustainability and workforce development in the IT and BPO sectors.

Recognizing the university’s rise in the global rankings, Dir. Felicitas Trinidad of the Office of International Affairs (OIA) stated, “Our jump from rank 271 to 250 is a significant achievement. It proves that PUP has the capacity to compete globally in WURI, backed by projects that go beyond serving the PUP community and create meaningful impact in communities beyond our campus.”

“We are committed to sustaining innovative projects within the university, and our annual participation in WURI reflects that dedication. It challenges us to think outside the box and continuously develop initiatives that make a real impact,” Dr. Christopher Sasot, OIA Chief for Special Internationalization Projects, added.

These rankings highlight the university’s commitment to accessible, socially responsive, and innovation-driven education that serves underserved communities and addresses the evolving challenges of the 21st century.

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