Polytechnic University of the Philippines

Continued excellence: PUP-CADBE attains high passing rates

Fri, 27 Jun 2025 19:20:00 GMT

Jan Vincent Lanuza, News, Communication Management Office

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

View this article in PUPWebSite

PUP and PwC Philippines Forge Strategic Alliance to Empower Future Workforce

Fri, 27 Jun 2025 19:15:00 GMT

Heildenberg Dimarucot, News, Communication Management Office

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

View this article in PUPWebSite

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

Fri, 27 Jun 2025 19:04:00 GMT

Elaine Carie A. Andres, News, Communication Management Office

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

View this article in PUPWebSite

PUP and PPSI reinforces partnership

Thu, 26 Jun 2025 17:54:00 GMT

Jan Vincent Lanuza, News, Communication Management Office

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Joining Cablao and Oquindo during the MOA signing were PPSI’s Operations Manager and its team members and PUP’s Alumni Relations and Career Development Office (ARCDO) representatives: Career Development and Placement Services Chief Assoc. Prof. Jane S. Pulma and Alumni Relations Services Chief Dr. Emeteria Leonila A. Perez.

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

_{(Grammar check is done with the help of AI.)}

View this article in PUPWebSite

BroadCircle Hosts "QUEERIOSITY" in Celebration of Pride Month

Thu, 26 Jun 2025 17:53:00 GMT

Alexa Lorraine Capangpangan, Ansherina Limbo, News, PUP BroadCircle

As part of its annual Pride Month celebration, the PUP BroadCircle hosted “QUEERIOSITY: Flaunting Prideful Palettes and Stages in Media” on June 19, 2025, at Bulwagang Bonifacio, Polytechnic University of the Philippines. The event paid tribute to the creativity of the LGBTQIA+ community, while underscoring the importance of Queer Art as both a form of self-expression and a powerful medium for advocacy.

The program featured a vibrant showcase of queer artistry across various forms—including drag, film, and music—and was highlighted by dynamic performances and thought-provoking talks from guest speakers. Among the featured guests were the Philippines’ first hard-of-hearing drag queen, Panthera Arma; filmmaker and writer Cha Roque; and trans R&B musician Stef Aranas. Each shared personal insights and experiences from their respective industries, offering powerful narratives of resilience, identity, and representation.

Following a powerful Filipino Sign Language (FSL) performance of Yeng Constantino’s “Ikaw,” Ms. Panthera Arma shared her journey into the world of drag and how she integrates sign language into her performances. By doing so, she has carved out a unique space that bridges her identities as a performer, advocate, and proud member of both the LGBTQIA+ and Persons with Disability (PWD) communities. “Ang mga PWD ay p’wede ring maging drag queen (PWDs can also be drag queens),” she declared, challenging societal perceptions and redefining visibility and representation. Before leaving the stage, Ms. Arma taught the audience basic sign language, reinforcing the central message of her art: inclusivity.

Meanwhile, filmmaker and writer Ms. Cha Roque delivered a brief presentation featuring some of her notable works, including “What I Would’ve Told My Daughter If I Knew What to Say Back Then,” “Slay,” and “Hapag.” She also recounted her personal experience of coming out to her mother as a lesbian. During the discussion of her film Mamily, Ms. Roque remarked, “Children from traditional families are no different than those from non-traditional ones,” referencing LGBTQIA+ families like her own. She addressed the persistent lack of authentic representation in queer media; especially how early lesbian narratives often ended in tragedy. Concluding her segment, she offered words of encouragement to aspiring queer filmmakers, emphasizing the value of telling stories that come from personal truth—an approach she applies to all her creative work.

Continuing the momentum with her commanding stage presence, Ms. Stef Aranas captivated the audience with performances of her singles “Cunty” and “QC Gurlz” featuring Sassa Gurl, along with an exclusive preview of an unreleased track. The crowd was visibly moved, not only by her powerful vocals, but also by the compelling messages she delivered as a proud transwoman. “There’s no pressure to come out,” she declared, offering a bold counterpoint to societal expectations surrounding the coming-out experience.

The success of “QUEERIOSITY: Flaunting Prideful Palettes and Stages in Media” was made possible through the generous support of its official sponsors, Midoko, Doña Theresa, and Cuppa Java, alongside its organizational partner, Boluntaryong PUP, and media partners: the Philippine Communication Society, Monster RX93.1, The Communicator, and Quadro Photography Club.

Conceptualized and brought to life by Executive Producers Sofia Nicole Manlangit and Malik Elisha Bernales, in collaboration with Project Heads Alexa Lorraine Capangpangan and Ansherina Limbo, the event embodied a shared commitment to celebrating Queer Art not only as a creative expression but also as a powerful force for advocacy. Hosts Karol Josef Martinez and Jelo Zapanta guided the program with energy and conviction, leading the audience through an evening of dynamic performances and meaningful dialogue.

Ultimately, QUEERIOSITY served as a vital platform for authentic storytelling, amplifying the voices, triumphs, and struggles of the queer community. Aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal on Gender Equality (SDG 5) and the University’s commitment to gender inclusivity and sensitivity, the event championed inclusivity and equal representation, envisioning a world where all gender identities and expressions are respected, affirmed, and celebrated.

View this article in PUPWebSite

CAF students achieve notable milestones in LECPA, Charlwin Lee Cup

Tue, 24 Jun 2025 16:15:00 GMT

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

The College of Accountancy and Finance (CAF) continues to uphold the Polytechnic University of the Philippines’ (PUP) commitment to academic excellence with two (2) remarkable achievements in the May 2025 Licensure Examination for Certified Public Accountants (LECPA) and the 20th Charlwin Lee Cup.

CAF shines in the May 2025 LECPA, produced the most new CPA’s
In the results released by the Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) on June 4, Charlize Pauline L. Ellar of the PUP Sta. Mesa Campus ranked 9th nationwide with a score of 89.50%, marking her as one of the top-performing examinees.

In addition, the Department of Accountancy, under the College of Accountancy and Finance, emerged as the top producer of new CPAs in the May 2025 LECPA, with 209 passers, both for first time and repeat takers. Different campuses such as Bataan, Binan, Lopez, Maragondon, Ragay, San Juan, San Pedro, Sta. Maria (Bulacan), Sta. Rosa, Sto. Tomas, and Taguig have a combined number of 79 passers.

Overall, the entire PUP System recorded a 56.25% passing rate—significantly higher than the national passing rate of 33.11% (3,156 passers out of 9,533 examinees)—further reinforcing Sintang Paaralan’s consistent performance in licensure examinations.

The May 2025 LECPA was conducted on May 25-27, 2025 at various PRC testing centers across the country. According to the PRC website, online registration for the issuance of Professional Identification Card and Certificate of Registration will begin on July 9. Details regarding the oath-taking ceremony of the new CPA’s will be announced on a later date.

20th Charlwin Lee Cup Champion is a PUPian
Fransh Andrei Abad, a third-year accounting student from the Sta. Mesa Campus, emerged as the Champion of the 20th Charlwin Lee Cup—a prestigious nationwide competition for accounting students organized by the National Federation of Junior Philippine Institute of Accountants (NFJPIA). The event was held on June 3, 2025 at the KPMG R.G. Manabat & Co. Center, Ayala Avenue, Makati City.

Dubbed the “Cup of All Cups,” the contest is an individual quiz bee that covers topics from the LECPA. Only contestants who previously secured podium finishes at other JPIA-organized quiz bees were eligible to compete.

The revolving cup will be in Abad’s custody for a whole year and will be passed on to the next winner. The last time PUP won the Cup was in 2023 when Celine Mae Javier took home the title. Other finalists also from PUP Sta. Mesa were as follows: Collin Roque, James Medina, Josh Lee Villanueva, Karyll Masangkay, Benedick Fernandez, Raymond Rasos, and Veniz Velasquez.

These notable achievements of the Iskolar ng Bayan highlight PUP’s strong showings in both academic competitions and licensure examinations, reaffirming its reputation as one of the country’s leading institutions for aspiring accountants.

_{(Note: Grammar check generated by AI.)}

View this article in PUPWebSite

Driving Digital Transformation: ARCDO, CE, Saman hold career day

Tue, 24 Jun 2025 16:14:00 GMT

Jan Vincent Lanuza, News, Communication Management Office

The Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP), through its Alumni Relations and Career Development Office (ARCDO), College of Engineering, and in collaboration with Korean engineering firm Saman Group, held a career day for Civil Engineering students at the Bulwagang Balagtas on May 30.

Themed “How to innovate Infrastructure Construction using BIM Technology,” the event emphasized the importance of implementing digital strategies, specifically Building Information Modeling (BIM) technology, in the construction industry for an efficient and cost-effective performance.

BIM: The future of the construction agency
BIM is transforming construction by replacing traditional methods with digital processes, Saman engineers expounded during the seminar. Using 3D modeling, it helps teams design, plan, and manage construction projects more effectively.

Advanced tools such as geospatial systems and digital twins improve monitoring and decision-making, while integrated information models, prefabrication, and modular construction enhance accuracy. Big data also supports real-time tracking of project progress. Saman aims to demonstrate BIM’s potential in increasing the productivity of public infrastructure projects in the Philippines.

PUP: A school for future civil engineers
Jin Park, Deputy Representative of Saman Group’s Philippine Branch, stated the importance of teaching the next generation of civil engineers BIM.

“Adding construction technology with ICT technology can make a different level of productivity. We need to develop our own softwares for the construction project. For better quality, productivity, safety, and saving cost,” he stated.

Park commended PUP’s quality education, describing its graduates as highly-skilled and hardworking—factors that contributed to the decision to collaborate with the University.

“We found that PUP is providing practical, theoretical, right way of engineering background for the students. It has been proven by many of the alumni graduated from the PUP who are working currently in the areas of various authorities of the Philippines. So, it was proven that PUP is fostering the next generation of civil engineering.” Park added.

More collaborations for University and Student Development
Alumni Relations and Career Development Office (ARCDO) Director and Assistant to the Vice President for Student Affairs and Services (AVPSAS) Engr. Florinda H. Oquindo Interview highlighted the value of this new association to PUP and its students.

“It positions the university as a modern, forward-thinking institution aligned with industry trends. Given this is [a] international partnership with [an] international company, it attracts partnership with construction firms, architectural companies, and smart infrastructure agencies for our civil engineering students.” Oquindo noted.

Student Perspectives
Fourth-year CE students Alfann Jeron C. Bologna and Charles Cesar C. Sales shared how the lectures provided by Saman gave them valuable insights and knowledge that would help them both academically and professionally. Both students expressed hope for more events like this in the future, giving more students the chance to learn and grow.

The Saman Group Career Day underscores the University’s commitment to student development. By hosting such initiatives, PUP ensures that the Iskolar ng Bayan are well-informed of current industry trends and practices—essential elements for their growth as future professionals.

View this article in PUPWebSite

Double Victory: PUP DFM teams clinch top awards in MARTxCFAP Cup 2025

Mon, 23 Jun 2025 16:49:00 GMT

Cedrix Leppago, News, PUP Campus Journalists

Two teams from the Department of Financial Management (DFM) of the Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP) secured major awards in the 2025 MARTxCFAP Cup: Inter-Collegiate Bonds Trading Competition Season 4. The awarding ceremony was held on May 23, 2025, at the Palacio del Gobernador Convention Hall in Intramuros, Manila.

The PUP delegates—CHADE Traders and YIELD Masters—competed against 37 teams from universities nationwide, showcasing their skills and strategies in a two-month challenge focused on fixed income securities.

CHADE Traders, composed of Christian Mapacpac (team leader), Hanna Victorino, Ezekiel Aguinaldo, Airome Ashley Manansala, and Haron Paul Joaquin, emerged as the grand champions. They also took home the Alpha Team, Most Diversified Portfolio, and Most Astute Traders awards.

Meanwhile, YIELD Masters, led by Angelo Hufancia and composed of Bernadette Trinidad, April Joy Cabaya, Rica Mae Cruz, and Joshua Yu, placed second overall in the BPI Game, and won the Most Defensive Portfolio and Auction Star awards.

This marks the second consecutive year that a PUP DFM team has reached the competition’s final round.

Mastering the market
Organized by the Money Market Association of the Philippines (MART) and the Chartered Financial Analyst Society of the Philippines (CFAP), the competition aimed to expose students to the realities of capital markets and trading, especially fixed income securities—an area often overlooked in favor of stocks or cryptocurrencies.

To prepare, the PUP competitors underwent intensive training in fixed income trading, market terms, and negotiation strategies. They also used platforms like PDEX, Bloomberg, and Trading Economics to analyze real-time data—such as interest and inflation rates—that shaped their bond yield decisions during the competition.

“We reviewed market trends, practiced mock trades, analyzed past data, and assigned roles based on each member’s strengths,” Hufancia said, emphasizing their team’s strategy.

“That’s also our motivation and our main driver, not only to win in this competition, but to really learn a lot so that we could use the skills and the knowledge that we understood all throughout the competition to use in our future careers,” Mapacpac added.

Triumph through grit
Fresh off their win, team leaders of CHADE Traders and YIELD Masters shared the emotional and professional impact of their success.

For Hufancia, the victory of YIELD Masters was a “defining moment” that went far beyond rankings and recognition, symbolizing the countless hours they spent on research, strategy discussions, discipline, and learning throughout the competition.

Mapacpac echoed this sentiment, noting how physically and mentally demanding the two-month competition was for the team. Balancing their academic responsibilities with daily market analyses, risk assessments, and economic monitoring needed tremendous effort and sacrifice.

Strength in support
The teams attributed their accomplishments to the strong support system of PUP and their coaches.

As told by Hufancia, their coach provided regular consultations to build their technical skills, and fellow PUP contestants—especially the Kung Fu Traders—offered valuable insights that helped them navigate the event.

They also gained logistical and financial support, including tuition reimbursements, food, and learning resources. The combination of academic and moral support played a crucial role in their preparation and eventual victory.

PUP pride lives on
Now entering their final academic year, most team members are shifting their focus to internships but remain open to future competitions that align with their skills and interests.

They concluded their victory with heartfelt gratitude to the Sintang Paaralan, crediting their success to the institution’s values of resilience, integrity, and excellence.

“Opportunities like this, bonus trading or fixed income trading competition, and being able to be equipped with practical skills and real-life application will surely help us in our future careers,” Mapacpac noted.

The CHADE Traders and YIELD Masters’ win in the 2025 MARTxCFAP Cup: Inter-Collegiate Bonds Trading Competition stands as a testament to PUP’s enduring commitment to academic excellence.

View this article in PUPWebSite

Bio students bag multiple awards at MMHRDC International Conference

Mon, 23 Jun 2025 16:48:00 GMT

Ryan Labana, News, College of Science

BS Biology students from the Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP) received major awards at the 9th International Symposium and 16th Annual Scientific Conference of the Metro Manila Health Research and Development Consortium (MMHRDC), held on June 5–6, 2025 at the Asian Hospital & Medical Center and The Palms Country Club.

Held under the theme “Juan Health Research: Bridging Science, Technology, and Society,” the conference showcased multidisciplinary research aligned with the One Health framework, which emphasizes the interconnectedness of human, animal, and environmental health.

The team of Eunise Monserrat, Abraham Cuevas, and Kareeznah Aguilar won 1st Place and the People’s Choice Award in the infomercial category for their entry, “Safe Steps for Stronger Kids: Unhooking Hookworms One Step at a Time.”

Another group—Jayshiel Ignacio, Marielle Servigon, John Christopher Padayao, Anne Turingan, and Ariane Ramo—earned 2nd Place in the same category for their infomercial, “Environmental Loading Estimates of Soil-Transmitted Helminths: A One Health Approach.”

In the poster presentation category, Monserrat’s team was again recognized, placing in the Top 5 out of over 100 entries with their research titled “Ecological Niche Modeling of Zoonotic Hookworms Using MaxEnt.”

All teams were mentored by Assoc. Prof. Ryan V. Labana of the PUP College of Science. These accomplishments affirm the University’s active participation in international research conferences and its continued contribution to science-based public health initiatives.

View this article in PUPWebSite

Cognizant Tech Solutions, a Fortune 500 Company, is PUP's new partner

Mon, 23 Jun 2025 16:46:00 GMT

Jan Vincent Lanuza, News, Communication Management Office

Committed to providing more career opportunities to the Iskolar ng Bayan, the University, through its Alumni Relations and Career Development Office (ARCDO), signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Philippine branch of the Fortune 500 company Cognizant Technology Solutions.

The understanding
The two parties, in the ceremonial signing held at Cognizant’s office at Mckinley Hill Cyberpark, Taguig on June 11, aims to further the industry-academic linkage for mutual benefit, with the University receiving support in conducting Employment and Internship opportunities, Student and Faculty Development Programs, and Curriculum review.

The University, for their part, will help Cognizant in research matters, industrial consultancy engagement, help develop analytical frameworks/models, and provide representation for the Advisory Council co-constituted by the company and other academic institutions.

Cognizant: PUP, the best school to recruit
Cognizant employs 386 PUP graduates since 2023 wherein they mostly worked at the Operations, HR, and IT Departments.

Asia Pacific Delivery Head for Intuitive Operations and Automation (IOA) & Cognizant Philippines Country Head Jose Luis Marquez raved about PUP, declaring the Sintang Paaralan the “the best University in the Philippines to acquire great talent.”

Marquez also credited PUP graduates working at Cognizant as smart, tech-savvy, open to new learning, and exhibiting grit and determination—qualities that led him to make it a point to hire more from the University.

ARCDO Director and Assistant to the Vice President for Student Affairs and Services Engr. Florinda H. Oquindo noted that this new collaboration will foster stronger industry relationships, enhance the University’s reputation, increase alumni engagement, and position PUP as a career-ready institution.

“The overall impact of the MOU signing between PUP and Cognizant is bridges the gap between education and employment. It promotes a proactive career mindset among students and positions the university as a career-ready institution in the eyes of industry and students.” Oquindo said.

Nurturing minds, shaping futures
Princess Ney and Jhe-Anne Karla Oraa, HR Junior Executives at Cognizant and proud PUP alumni, shared that the University’s industry-aligned curriculum and teaching style—both of which foster critical thinking and communication skills—helped them become resourceful, patient, resilient, adaptable, humble, and lifelong learners.

“Naturally, PUPians kasi are very resourceful so i-keep nila ang ganoong mindset na tatapusin kung ano ang sinimulan, tapos pagiging madiskarte kasi I’m sure madadala nila iyan at magugustuhan sila ng mga employer nila kapag naka-graduate na sila.” Ney advised when asked for her message to the Iskolar ng Bayan.

(Naturally, PUPians are very resourceful, so they should keep that mindset of finishing what they started, and being strategic, because I’m sure they’ll carry that with them and their future employers will appreciate it once they graduate.)

“Make the most of your time in the University. Embrace every opportunity for growth, whether in academics and extra-curricular activities. Build connections, seek mentorships, and don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone because your experiences at PUP will pave the way for a bright future.” Oraa added.

Joining Marquez and Oquindo during the MOA signing were Cognizant’s Associate Director for Recruitment Emerald Grace Chua and officials and PUP’s Alumni Relations and Career Development Office (ARCDO) representatives: Career Development and Placement Services Chief Assoc. Prof. Jane S. Pulma and Alumni Relations Services Chief Dr. Emeteria Leonila A. Perez.

Through this new partnership with a Fortune 500 company like Cognizant, the University continues to make strides in establishing industry collaborations, reinforcing its commitment to the PUP community—to provide curriculum and career development opportunities that empower both students and faculty.

View this article in PUPWebSite