Polytechnic University of the Philippines

PUP launches First National Summit on Polytechnic Education in the Philippines

Fri, 16 Oct 2026 13:16:00 GMT

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

About the Polytechnic University of the Philippines

The Polytechnic University of the Philippines is the largest state university in terms of student population. It envisions itself as a leading polytechnic university in Asia-Pacific, committed to providing accessible, quality, and relevant higher education to learners across all walks of life. Guided by its vision and mission, PUP advances academic excellence, research and innovation, community engagement, and inclusive public service in pursuit of national development and global competitiveness.

For media inquiries, partnership opportunities, and updates, please visit www.pup.edu.ph or contact the University Communication Management Office at commcenter@pup.edu.ph or directly through its Media Relations Officers:

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

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

View this article in PUPWebSite

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

Fri, 16 Oct 2026 13:15:00 GMT

Rencyliann Macorol, News, Communication Management Office

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

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

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

Participants in the event included:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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HEIs sign pledge to form national polytechnic network

Fri, 16 Oct 2026 13:09:00 GMT

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

About the Polytechnic University of the Philippines

For media inquiries, partnership opportunities, and updates, please visit www.pup.edu.ph or contact theUniversity Communication Management Office at commcenter@pup.edu.ph or directly through its Media Relations Officers:

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

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

View this article in PUPWebSite

PUP WIRED Earns first Energy Inventor Award from DOE

Fri, 16 Oct 2026 13:08:00 GMT

Gicel Roger Salvilla, News, Communication Management Office

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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GIA Summit 2026 Bridges Sectors for Responsible AI Adoption and Governance

Fri, 16 Oct 2026 13:03:00 GMT

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

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

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

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

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

AI adoption and the limits of automation

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

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

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

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

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

Preparing workers and institutions for AI

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Wed, 14 Oct 2026 13:24:00 GMT

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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PUP President named Asia's Modern Hero

Wed, 14 Oct 2026 13:21:00 GMT

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

Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP) President Dr. Manuel M. Muhi received the Asia’s Modern Hero for Advancing Accessible and Inclusive Education Award at the Asia’s Modern Hero Awards 2026 on September 25 at Okada Manila in Parañaque City. The award recognized Dr. Muhi’s leadership, spearheading programs designed bring classes and university services to underserved communities, out-of-school youth (OSY), and to persons deprived of liberty (PDL).

In his acceptance message, Dr. Muhi said the award belongs to the University. “I accept this recognition not simply as a personal honor, but as a recognition of the Polytechnic University of the Philippines and the people behind its continuing mission to serve the Filipino people through education,” he said.

“For us at PUP, leadership in education means more than opening the doors of the University. It means bringing those doors closer to the people… Education must remain a pathway to hope, even for those whose circumstances have placed them behind walls. A person’s past should not permanently define their future ” he said.

PUP offers academic programs to OSYs and PDLs through its Open University System. Under his administration, PUP has also expanded its extension and community programs, which deliver the University’s training and services outside the campus. These programs support the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals on Quality Education (SDG 4) and Reduced Inequalities (SDG 10).

The Asia’s Modern Hero Awards recognizes individuals whose work has strengthened their communities and advanced their fields. This year’s awardees include public servants, educators, business leaders, healthcare professionals, diplomats and industry pioneers. The awards were presented by the Golden Icons Foundation, produced by Asia’s Golden Icons Awards & Events Inc., and powered by Chunnel & Channel Realty Marketing & Development Corporation.

About the Polytechnic University of the Philippines

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

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

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COED Initiatives Honor Educators through Recognition, Research, and Meaningful Conversations

Wed, 14 Oct 2026 13:18:00 GMT

Gicel Roger Salvilla, News, Communication Management Office

The College of Education (COED) undertook a series of initiatives in observance of Teachers Month, highlighting the achievements, professional growth, research engagement, and lived experiences of educators and future teachers.

The initiatives began with the COED Awards 2026 on September 2, 2026, themed “Diwa’t Hiraya: Pagdiriwang ng Kahusayan.” The recognition program honored students, organizations, faculty, and staff for their accomplishments, dedication, creativity, and service to the College community.

A highlight of the celebration was the keynote segment featuring Mr. Aljean A. Candar, LPT, who placed 10th in the September and November 2025 Licensure Examination for Professional Teachers–Secondary Level with a 93% rating.

The College also strengthened its research culture through the Publish Smart Orientation on September 14, 2026, which guided faculty members and graduate students on publication requirements, ethical publishing, and the selection of credible scholarly outlets. The activity likewise raised awareness on predatory journals and responsible research dissemination.

Meanwhile, the Future Business Teachers’ Organization (FBTO) organized “LIGHTS, CAMERA, TEACH! Honoring the Teachers Who Inspire Beyond Every Lesson” on October 2, 2026, providing pre-service teachers with opportunities to hear from educators about the realities, challenges, and meaning of the teaching profession.

Among the featured speakers was Jade Hendrich D. Bendo, LPT, a public school teacher from Pulo ni Sara Integrated School, who shared her experiences as an early-career educator. Reflecting on the realities of teaching, she reminded future educators:

“We should always expect the unexpected. Bilang mga future teachers, kailangan nating maging flexible. Ganito tayo hinuhubog ng profession kung ano man ang dumating, matuto tayong sumabay, mag-adjust, at harapin ito.”

(We should always expect the unexpected. As future teachers, we need to be flexible. This is how the profession shapes us—whatever comes our way, we must learn to adapt, adjust, and face it.)

Through these initiatives, COED highlighted that honoring teachers extends beyond recognition. It also means supporting their professional and scholarly growth, valuing their experiences, and preparing future educators for the realities of the profession.

The initiatives reflect the University's commitment to Passion for Learning and Innovation, Excellence, and Sense of Service, while contributing to Sustainable Development Goal 4: Quality Education through educator development, research engagement, and meaningful teacher preparation.

Through these Teachers Month initiatives, COED continues to recognize educators as mentors, lifelong learners, researchers, innovators, and builders of the future.

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74th Guidance Awareness Month Highlights Student Wellness through Series of Activities

Fri, 09 Oct 2026 14:36:00 GMT

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

Sintang Paaralan is putting student well-being at the forefront of its 74th Guidance Awareness Month, promoting mental health, self-awareness, and connection through activities organized by the Office of Counseling and Psychological Services (OCPS).

The month-long celebration began on October 1, 2026, with the first-year orientation and continued on October 8 with initiatives on wellness, inclusivity, and self-expression.

Held at Bulwagang Bonifacio, Sta. Mesa Campus, Manila, the opening orientation, themed “Starting the PUPian Journey: Understanding Yourself, Embracing Realities, and Shaping Your Aspirations,” introduced incoming students to guidance services and encouraged them to recognize their needs as they adjust to university life.

For Niña Jana Bastol, a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science student, the session offered practical insight into managing burnout.

“Nakatulong po yung orientation kung paano ipa-process kapag nakaranas ng burnout,” she shared.

(The orientation helped me understand how to process experiences of burnout.)

Bachelor of Science in Information Technology students Johnmer Uy, Althea Samar, April Grefalda, Carlo Garcia, and Dan Borile identified “Awareness,” “Learning,” and “Holistic” as their key takeaways, highlighting that vulnerability is not weakness.

Reign Kashley Pauline F. Del Monte of KATAGA (Kapatiran ng Talino at Galing), under the Office of Scholarships and Financial Assistance (OSFA), also emphasized that free higher education does not automatically eliminate every student's difficulty, making awareness of available assistance essential.

The celebration continued on October 8 through the W.I.S.H. (Wellness, Inclusivity, Self-Expression, and Harmony) Bus, which drew students and faculty near the Charlie del Rosario Building. Inspired by Wish 107.5, the University bus served as a singing stage, while aspiration walls and a photobooth provided spaces for students and faculty to express themselves and connect with one another.

For first-year Bachelor of Science in Psychology student Divine Grace Yruma, the activity meant more than entertainment. Amid the university's hybrid learning setup, it gave students an opportunity to reconnect in person.

“Sinusulit po namin yung time na ‘to para magkita-kita,” Yruma said.

(We're making the most of this opportunity to see one another)

Jonalyn D. Pamintuan, RGC, of the OCPS Guidance and Counseling Service, said the W.I.S.H. Bus aimed to engage students through recreational activities they enjoy, citing the strong turnout at the previous year's Zumba event at C.M. Recto.

This celebration aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 3 on Good Health and Well-Being, SDG 4 on Quality Education, SDG 5 on Gender Equality, and SDG 17 on Partnerships for the Goals. From helping freshmen understand and navigate their struggles to creating opportunities for students to reconnect and engage in wellness initiatives, PUP’s Guidance Awareness Month highlights the vital role of support in student life

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COED Forges Research Partnerships to Advance Philippine Teacher Development

Fri, 09 Oct 2026 14:29:00 GMT

John Amiel Rivera, News, College of Education

In celebration of Teachers’ Month, the College of Education (COED) reaffirmed its dedication to advancing the teaching profession through research and academic collaborations with the City University of Pasay (CUP), Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila (PLM), Rizal Technological University (RTU), and University of Caloocan City (UCC). These partnerships aim to foster a research-oriented culture, promote professional development, and enhance scholarly productivity among educators.

The initiative was formalized through the Ceremonial Signing of the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) for the Three-Phase Research Collaboration Initiative held on September 24, 2026, via Zoom Teleconferencing. The partnership establishes a shared commitment among the participating colleges of education to address pressing educational challenges through research, innovation, and academic collaboration.

During the ceremony, College of Education Dean Dr. Rosemariebeth R. Dizon delivered the opening remarks, followed by the presentation of the participating institutions and their collective vision for addressing educational concerns through research and collaboration.

A key component of the program was the presentation of the Statement of Purpose by John Amiel A. Rivera, Research and Extension Chief of the College of Education, highlighting the initiative “Addressing the Gap of Philippine Education Based on EDCOM II Reports: A Research Capability-Building Activity.” The initiative is designed to strengthen the research competencies of faculty researchers and empower them to develop evidence-based and context-responsive solutions to challenges in Philippine education.

The three-phase collaboration will focus on research production, research presentation, and research publication. The first phase will equip faculty researchers through lectures, workshops, and writeshops in developing quality research proposals aligned with EDCOM II priorities. Completed studies will then be presented in academic conferences, research colloquia, and scholarly forums before progressing toward publication in refereed journals, conference proceedings, and other scholarly platforms.

The ceremony also featured an inspiring message from University President Dr. Manuel E. Muhi, represented by the Vice President for Academic Affairs, Dr. Emanuel C. De Guzman. This message emphasized the University’s active participation in the collaborative endeavor. In addition, the presidents of the participating universities expressed their unwavering support for the partnership and reaffirmed their commitment to fostering collaborative research that drives educational excellence and innovation.

The MOU signing marked the official launch of a collaborative research ecosystem among the participating institutions, with the goal of cultivating researchers capable of producing relevant studies, presenting significant findings, and publishing scholarly works that address real educational concerns and inform future reforms.

Through this initiative, Teachers’ Month is given added meaning as educators are recognized not only as teachers in the classroom but also as researchers and contributors to the continuing development of Philippine education.

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

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