Polytechnic University of the Philippines

Sta. Mesa Campus Continues Licensure Excellence with Top 2 Finish in July 2026 MPLE

Fri, 17 Jul 2026 14:51:00 GMT

Jan Vincent L. Lanuza, News, Communication Management Office

Graduates of our Sintang Paaralan once again demonstrated the University’s excellence in licensure examinations. The Sta. Mesa Campus was recognized as the Top 2 Performing School (with 30 or more examinees and with at least 80% passing rate) in July 2026 Master Plumbers Licensure Examination (MPLE).

According to the results released in July 15 by the Professional Regulation Commission (PRC), the Sta. Mesa Campus achieved an impressive 97.06% passing rate, significantly higher than the national passing rate of 78.68%.

This achievement continues the University's streak of strong performances in the Master Plumbers Licensure Examination (MPLE). Earlier this year, in the February 2026 MPLE, the Sta. Mesa Campus recorded an 88.24% passing rate, earning recognition as the Top 6 Performing School (with 10 or more examinees and at least an 80% passing rate).

Meanwhile, participating Campuses in the MPLE also delivered impressive results, earning passing rates well above the national average. This highlights PUP’s standing as one of the country’s leading institutions for aspiring master plumbers.

Passing Rates of PUP Campuses that went above the National Passing Rate Master Plumbers Licensure Examination
National Passing Rate - 78.68%
PUP Alfonso Campus	100%
PUP Lopez Campus	81.25%
PUP Sta. Mesa Campus	97.06%
PUP Maragondon Campus	100%
PUP Sta. Maria Campus	100%
PUP Sto. Tomas Campus	100%
PUP Taguig Campus	100%
PUP System Passing Rate - 96.90%

This strong performance in the bi-annual MPLE highlights PUP’s commitment to producing competent, industry-ready graduates who uphold the tradition of academic excellence at the Sintang Paaralan. It also advances the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 4 (Quality Education), through the University’s mandate of inclusive and accessible quality education.

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ASEAN Quality Assurance Leaders Advance Institutional Excellence

Fri, 17 Jul 2026 14:41:00 GMT

Grace F. Yebra, News, Quality Assurance Center

The University welcomed representatives from the ASEAN Quality Assurance Network (AQAN), the ASEAN University Network–Quality Assurance (AUN-QA), the Southeast Asian Ministers of Education Organization Regional Centre for Higher Education and Development (SEAMEO RIHED), and the Accrediting Agency of Chartered Colleges and Universities in the Philippines (AACCUP) for the Internal Quality Assurance (IQA) Knowledge Dialogue Session on July 13, 2026.

Hosted by Executive Vice President Dr. Alberto C. Guillo, Vice President for Research, Extension, and Development Dr. Anna Ruby P. Gapasin, and Quality Assurance Center Director Dr. Sanjay P. Claudio, the dialogue reaffirmed the University's commitment to cultivating a culture of quality, innovation, and continuous institutional improvement.

The Knowledge Capture Team was headed by Dr. Milabel E. Ho, President of the ASEAN Quality Assurance Network (AQAN). Joining her were Assoc. Prof. Dawisa Sritanyarat, Deputy Executive Director of the ASEAN University Network (AUN); Mr. Korn Ratanagosoom, AUN First Officer and Chief Strategy Officer; Ms. Nisanat Watthayu, AUN Senior Programme Officer; Mr. Prem Anand Arjunan, AUN-QA Expert and Director of the Malaysian Institute of Certified Public Accountants (MICPA); and Mr. Panupong Sriudom, Executive Assistant Officer of SEAMEO RIHED.

The Knowledge Dialogue served as the pre-activity for the Three-Day Internal Quality Assurance Workshop scheduled on July 14–16, 2026, which utilizes the AUN-QA Internal Quality Assurance (IQA) Management Toolkit Version 1.3. The initiative aimed to document and examine the quality assurance systems and best practices implemented by Philippine State Universities and Colleges (SUCs), while identifying the challenges and opportunities in strengthening internal quality assurance mechanisms. Insights generated from the dialogue are expected to support the enhancement of quality assurance initiatives and contribute to the continuous improvement of higher education across the ASEAN region.

Meaningful discussions focused on institutional quality assurance frameworks, governance structures, implementation strategies, and mechanisms for continuous improvement. University officials from key administrative and academic offices actively participated in the exchange, including representatives from the Institutional Quality Management Office, Institutional Planning Office, University Teaching and Learning Development Office, and the Information and Communications Technology Office. Deans and program managers from the College of Arts and Letters, College of Accountancy and Finance, College of Engineering, College of Business Administration, College of Communication, College of Social Sciences and Development, and the College of Computer and Information Sciences also joined the discussions.

The exchange of perspectives between PUP officials and regional quality assurance experts provided valuable insights into strengthening institutional quality assurance systems, promoting evidence-based decision-making, and aligning academic programs with international standards and best practices.

Through engagements such as this, PUP continues to reinforce its quality assurance framework by fostering meaningful collaboration with regional and international quality assurance organizations. The University's active participation in initiatives spearheaded by AQAN, AUN-QA, AACCUP, and SEAMEO RIHED reflects its steadfast commitment to academic excellence, institutional effectiveness, and globally benchmarked quality education.

Aligned with Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 4: Quality Education and SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals, the initiative advances regional collaboration in higher education while strengthening institutional quality assurance. It likewise embodies PUP's core values of Passion for Learning and Innovation, Excellence, Integrity and Accountability, and Sense of Service, reaffirming the University's dedication to delivering transformative, inclusive, and globally competitive education.

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

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QC Campus Advances Global Education through COIL Global Business Forum

Tue, 14 Jul 2026 12:48:00 GMT

Mark Anthony R. Aribon, Jerwin B. Vitales, News, Quezon City Campus

The Quezon City Campus, through the Office of the Vice President for Campuses, conducted the Global Business Forum under the Collaborative Online International Learning (COIL) program in partnership with the Indonesia International Institute for Life Sciences (i3L) from March 11 to April 24, 2026. The initiative brought together faculty members and students from both institutions through a series of virtual learning sessions designed to promote international academic collaboration, knowledge exchange, and intercultural understanding.

The forum featured five international lectures delivered by i3L faculty members, covering emerging issues in business and society. Topics included employee creativity and retention, women entrepreneurship and inclusive economic growth, social entrepreneurial orientation during global disruptions, climate variability and social inequality, and business model innovation. The sessions engaged students from the Bachelor of Science in Business Administration, Bachelor of Science in Entrepreneurship, and Bachelor of Science in Psychology programs, providing them with valuable opportunities to gain global perspectives from international experts.

The COIL program serves as a virtual exchange initiative that enables faculty members from partner institutions to collaboratively design and deliver learning experiences within existing courses. Through this approach, students are exposed to diverse cultural perspectives and international learning environments while remaining in their respective institutions. The program also provides faculty members with opportunities to strengthen international academic networks, adopt innovative teaching strategies, and pursue future collaborative research and extension initiatives.

As part of the partnership, the Quezon City Campus and i3L also implemented collaborative teaching engagements across selected courses in entrepreneurship, business research, marketing management, retail and distribution management, and international business. These initiatives reflect the University's continuing efforts to integrate global perspectives into instruction and expand meaningful opportunities for international engagement across its academic community.

The implementation of the COIL Global Business Forum reinforces the University's commitment to advancing its internationalization agenda through strategic academic partnerships that enrich teaching, learning, and cross-cultural collaboration. By connecting students and faculty with international counterparts, the University continues to cultivate globally competent graduates equipped to thrive in an interconnected world while advancing inclusive and innovative polytechnic education.

The initiative embodies the PUP Core Values of Passion for Learning and Innovation, Inclusivity, Excellence, and Nationalism by promoting transformative learning through international collaboration while preparing students to contribute meaningfully to local and global communities.

It also advances the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 4 (Quality Education) by expanding access to quality international learning experiences; SDG 5 (Gender Equality) through discussions on women entrepreneurship and inclusive economic growth; SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities) by fostering equitable access to global education and intercultural exchange; SDG 13 (Climate Action) by addressing climate-related social challenges; and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals) by strengthening international academic partnerships that support sustainable development.

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

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Mental Health Week Sparks Hope, Strengthens Minds, and Breaks the Silence

Sat, 11 Jul 2026 13:46:00 GMT

Gicel Roger Salvilla, News, Communication Management Office

As the country continues to intensify conversations on mental health—particularly following the observance of Men's Mental Health Awareness Month in June—the Office of Counseling and Psychological Services (OCPS) has strengthened its commitment to fostering a campus environment where resilience, emotional well-being, and help-seeking are encouraged and supported.

During Mental Health Week 2026, held from March 16 to 20, the University gathered students, faculty members, administrative personnel, coaches, and student-athletes in a series of seminars and wellness activities designed to equip participants with practical strategies for navigating stress, setbacks, and life's everyday challenges.

The week's discussions began on March 17 with "Turning Setbacks into Comebacks: How Challenges Shape Us," where Dr. Rodrigo V. Lopiga, Director of OCPS, underscored the importance of building psychological resilience before adversity strikes.

"Mental health, resilience, and psychological preparedness are essential in overcoming life's challenges," Dr. Lopiga emphasized in his opening message.

Delivering the seminar proper, Ms. Jennifer A. Galapon, Head Teacher III and Guidance Advocate, challenged participants to reframe failures as opportunities for growth. Through practical examples, she encouraged student-athletes and university personnel to develop self-awareness, strengthen resilience, and cultivate a growth mindset instead of allowing setbacks to define their future.

The conversation shifted from resilience to emotional wellness on March 18 through "Malusog na Kaisipan, Masayang PUPian (Laughter Therapy) Version 2.0," where Mr. Paulo Martin Trinidad, Founder of Pinoy Laughter Yoga, demonstrated how laughter can serve as a powerful therapeutic tool.

Opening his discussion, Trinidad posed a question that resonated with participants: "What is happiness?"

He later reminded attendees that thoughts influence actions and ultimately shape one's future, quoting:

"Watch your thoughts for they become words, watch your words for they become actions, watch your actions for they become habits, watch your habits for they become your character, and watch your character for they become your destiny."

Highlighting the science behind laughter therapy, Trinidad noted that 20 seconds of genuine laughter produces physiological benefits comparable to three to five minutes of heavy exercise, emphasizing that happiness is not merely an emotion but an important contributor to overall health.

On March 19, the final webinar, "Power Up Positivity: Thrive Through Challenges," focused on sustaining optimism amid academic and professional pressures. In his opening remarks, Dr. Lopiga reminded participants that positivity does not mean denying hardship.

"Positivity is not about ignoring problems, but about building the mental capacity to handle them effectively," he said, citing survey findings showing that insufficient sleep continues to affect students' mental wellness and academic performance.

Resource speaker Dr. Gerry L. Rivas opened his session by asking: "When was the last time you felt truly overwhelmed?"

He encouraged participants to embrace optimism as an active choice rather than passive wishful thinking.

"Optimism isn't about ignoring problems. Instead, it's about facing those problems with hope and believing things can get better."

Rivas also urged participants to celebrate small victories, practice gratitude, take meaningful breaks to prevent burnout, and rely on friends, family, mentors, and teachers during difficult times.

Although the activities were conducted in March, their message remains especially timely amid the country's continuing efforts to normalize conversations about mental health. The University's Mental Health Week echoes the growing call to ensure that no one—particularly men and young people who often hesitate to seek support—faces emotional struggles alone.

The initiative reflects the University's INSPIRED Core Values by promoting Integrity and Accountability through responsible self-care, Passion for Learning and Innovation through evidence-based wellness interventions, Sense of Service by expanding access to psychological support, Inclusivity through safe spaces for open dialogue, and Excellence by nurturing resilient and emotionally healthy members of the academic community.

Likewise, the program advances Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 3: Good Health and Well-being, SDG 4: Quality Education, and SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals, reinforcing the University's commitment to holistic education and collaborative mental health advocacy.

Need Someone to Talk To? Help Is Always Available.

Mental health challenges can affect anyone, and reaching out for support is a courageous first step toward healing.

If you would like to speak with a counselor, we encourage you to schedule a face-to-face counseling session by booking an appointment through PUP SINTA.

If you or someone you know is experiencing an immediate mental health crisis, please seek professional assistance through any of the following crisis hotlines:

Philippine General Hospital (PGH)

(02) 554-8400 local 2436 or 2440
(02) 554-8470
(02) 526-0150
(02) 554-8469

National Center for Mental Health (NCMH) Crisis Hotline

1553
1800-1888-1553 (Luzon-wide landline toll-free)
0919-057-1553 (Smart/Sun/TNT)
0917-899-8727 (Globe/TM)
(02) 8531-9001 (Trunk Line)

To stay informed about the latest Office of Counseling and Psychological Services (OCPS) programs, mental health initiatives, and available support services, follow the official Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/PUPGuidanceOfficial

Remember: You are not alone. Asking for help is a sign of strength, and support is always within reach.

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Accountancy wins big in JPIA Yearend Recognition Awards

Fri, 10 Jul 2026 12:23:00 GMT

Mark Anecito R. Perlas, Jireh Presmo, Marithonie Fernandez, News, College of Accountancy and Finance

Local chapter of the Junior Philippine Institute of Accountants (JPIA) Manila at the PUP Sta. Mesa Campus successfully defended its title as the country's Most Outstanding Local Chapter, earning back-to-back honors and multiple national recognitions at the National Federation of JPIA (NFJPIA) Year-End Awards (YEA) 2026, with the theme "Astral: Inscribing the Chalice of Legacy," held at Widus Hotel, Clark, Pampanga on July 1, 2026.

_{Photo courtesy of: PUP College of Accountancy and Finance 'Official' Facebook Page}

In addition to its major recognition, PUP JPIA Manila also received the Most Active Local Chapter award under the minor category and secured seven Best Local Chapter Activity (BLCA) distinctions:

BLCA for Academic Innovation (iPASS 8.0: Philippine Accountancy Students' Summit);
BLCA for Culture and Arts (LikhaJPIAn 2025 - PINTAK: Ink of Pride and History);
BLCA for Leadership Initiative (PUP F.I.R.S.T.: The Beacon for Minds that Rise and Lead);
2nd BLCA for Culture and Arts (1st JPIAn Showcase);
2nd BLCA for Social Responsibility (Project ATIMAN: Aruga at Tibok para sa mga Mamamayan);
2nd BLCA for Leadership Initiative (Catalyst 17: The Leadership Blueprint); and
3rd BLCA for Social Responsibility (ISKALikasan 2025: KALASAG - Beyond Vision for the Nature).

The local chapter also garnered seven individual recognitions across the major and minor categories:

Outstanding Local Chapter President - Jamez L. Hermo
Outstanding Local Chapter Executive Officer - Alexandra B. Cuevas
Most Outstanding JPIAn - James Carlo S. Medina
Outstanding JPIAn - Fransh Andrei L. Abad
Outstanding JPIAn - Rhea A. Niduelan
Outstanding Digital JPIArtist of the Year - Vincent M. Quilit
Most Outstanding Local Chapter Adviser - Dr. Mark Anecito R. Perlas, CPA, ASEAN CPA

The local chapter also garnered seven individual recognitions across the major and minor categories:

Outstanding Local Chapter President - Jamez L. Hermo
Outstanding Local Chapter Executive Officer - Alexandra B. Cuevas
Most Outstanding JPIAn - James Carlo S. Medina
Outstanding JPIAn - Fransh Andrei L. Abad
Outstanding JPIAn - Rhea A. Niduelan
Outstanding Digital JPIArtist of the Year - Vincent M. Quilit
Most Outstanding Local Chapter Adviser - Dr. Mark Anecito R. Perlas, CPA, ASEAN CPA

Meanwhile, Management Accounting student Kathrinne Faye C. Mercado was named a finalist for the Most Outstanding Local Chapter Executive Officer under the major category.

Regional achievements

Further, PUP JPIA Manila was also named as Most Outstanding Prime Local Chapter and bagged multiple awards during the NFJPIA-National Capital Region 21st Year-End Awards at the Citystate Tower Hotel, Manila on June 28, 2026. Eminence's awards included several major recognitions in the individual category; Jamez L. Hermo was named Most Outstanding Local Chapter President, while Alexandra B. Cuevas and Roxanne A. Ferido both received the Outstanding Local Chapter Executive Officer award.

_{Photo courtesy of: PUP College of Accountancy and Finance 'Official' Facebook Page}

In the minor category, Dr. Mark Anecito R. Perlas, CPA, ASEAN CPA, was recognized as the Notable Local Chapter Adviser; Fransh Andrei L. Abad was named JPIAn of the Year in Academics; Ryzzn Shynn S. Salting as the JPIAn of the Year in Non-Academics; and Vincent M. Quilit as the Most Outstanding Digital JPIAn Artist.

Pursuing the road to excellence

Reflecting on the chapter's achievements, PUP JPIA Manila Local Chapter President Jamez L. Hermo said the recognitions represent the collective sacrifices and unwavering commitment of every JPIAn behind the organization's success.

“The awards we received are more than just recognitions—they tell a story: a story of individual sacrifices, countless sleepless nights, and the journey of a local chapter that chose to dream beyond itself,” Hermo said.

Hermo also dedicated the awards to the chapter's 3,259 members, recognizing their contributions to the organization's accomplishments.

“These awards may bear our chapter's name, but they will always belong to every single one of you,” he added.

The organization’s adviser Dr. Mark Anecito R. Perlas, CPA, ASEAN CPA, also expressed his gratitude on behalf of the college.

“I'm thankful for this recognition. This award is dedicated to all those who have been part of PUP JPIA Manila ILUMHIRA Federation, who have exerted their efforts to further advance this organization. From a former Executive Officer to a MOLCA recipient adviser. Padayon!” Perlas said.

As PUP JPIA Manila continues to build on its legacy, the chapter remains committed to carrying forward the ideals of the JPIA group, as the bearers of the antlers of legacy and the lights that shine as beacons to victory. Such accomplishments point to SDG 4 on Quality Education while also building the foundations for SDG 17 on Partnership for the Goals.

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OUS Student Turns Five Stitches into International Diving Gold

Fri, 10 Jul 2026 11:39:00 GMT

Gicel Roger Salvilla, News, Communication Management Office

_{Photo courtesy of: PUP Open University System ‘Official’ Facebook Page}

Jana Mary V. Rodriguez, a Bachelor of Science in Tourism Management student from the Open University System (PUP OUS), claimed the gold medal in the Open Platform (Girls) category at the 3rd Parisakti Diving International Competition, held in Jakarta, Indonesia, from June 30 to July 2, 2026, bringing pride to the University and the Philippines on the international stage.

Behind Rodriguez's gold-medal finish was a story of resilience. Just two months before the competition, she suffered a foot injury during training that required surgery and five stitches—an unexpected setback that tested her determination. Reflecting on the experience, she shared:

"When I was preparing for the competition, I think two months before the game nagte-training po ako then after 3 hours tumama po yung paa ko sa platform. It cause a 5 stitches po sa left foot ko... after the surgery po nag rehab po ako and nagpa psych din po ako kaya after 1 month of rest po naka balik din po ako agad sa training."

("While preparing for the competition, about two months before the event, I accidentally hit my foot on the platform during training, resulting in five stitches on my left foot. After surgery, I underwent rehabilitation and psychological preparation, and after a month of rest, I was able to return to training.")

Rodriguez also highlighted how the flexibility of the Open University System enabled her to balance her academic responsibilities with the demands of elite athletic training.

"OUS help me to train while studying... when your mind is clear during the competition, mas magagawa mo po yung best of best mo. OUS is super convenient for someone like me."

("The Open University System helped me continue my studies while training. Having a clear mind during competitions allowed me to perform at my very best. OUS has been very convenient for someone like me.")

Reflecting on her achievement, Rodriguez encouraged fellow Iskolar ng Bayan to remain steadfast in pursuing their goals, emphasizing that "determination, discipline, and perseverance can take us to places we once only dreamed of."

Rodriguez's achievement reflects the University's commitment to nurturing learners who excel both academically and beyond the classroom. Her success embodies the PUP Core Values of Excellence, Passion for Learning and Innovation, Integrity and Accountability, and Nationalism through perseverance, academic dedication, and distinguished representation of the University and the Philippines in international sports.

The accomplishment also advances the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being) by promoting physical and mental resilience, SDG 4 (Quality Education) by demonstrating how flexible learning empowers student-athletes to excel, and SDG 5 (Gender Equality) by recognizing women's achievements in international competition.

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New Partnership Expands Access to Free LET Review Across Campuses

Thu, 09 Jul 2026 15:28:00 GMT

Gicel Roger Salvilla, News, Communication Management Office

Strengthening its commitment to educational excellence and teacher development, the Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP), The Good One Foundation Inc., and the Carl Balita Review Center formally sealed a tripartite Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) that will provide free Licensure Examination for Teachers (LET) review assistance to 210 graduating education students across PUP campuses.

Under the agreement, The Good One Foundation Inc. will initially sponsor five (5) student beneficiaries from each PUP campus. Further amplifying the program's impact, Dr. Carl Balita committed an additional five (5) review slots per campus, bringing the total number of beneficiaries to 210 aspiring teachers across the entire PUP Campuses who will receive comprehensive review support in preparation for the Licensure Examination for Teachers (LET).

Present during the ceremonial signing were The Good One Foundation Inc. Secretary General Mr. John Joseph Gabriel C. Puzon, Executive Director Mr. Ruel Nieva, and President Ms. Guia G. Gomez; Carl Balita Review Center Chairman and CEO Dr. Carl Balita; and representing the University, Officer-in-Charge and Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Emanuel C. de Guzman and Vice President for Campuses Dr. Armando A. Torres.

Expressing his enthusiasm for the initiative, Dr. Carl Balita emphasized the value of early preparation in achieving success in the licensure examination.

"As soon as ma-identify na po natin ang 210 beneficiaries, simulan na po natin ang paghahanda nila para sa darating na March 2027 Licensure Examination for Teachers because the longer they prepare, the better. At kasama ninyo po kami sa pangarap na ito."

("As soon as we identify the 210 beneficiaries, let us immediately begin preparing them for the March 2027 Licensure Examination for Teachers. The earlier they start preparing, the better. Rest assured that we will be with you in achieving this dream.")

Meanwhile, The Good One Foundation Inc. President Guia G. Gomez highlighted the significance of the program in fulfilling the foundation's long-standing vision of making quality education more accessible to Filipino families.

"Masaya talaga ako na isa ito sa magandang program na ginawa ng ating foundation dahil totoo po si Senator JV—ito ang pinakagusto niyang programa noon pa, na every family will have a college graduate, lalo na kung every family will have a teacher."

("I am truly happy because this is one of the foundation's most meaningful programs. Senator JV has always believed in this advocacy—that every family should have a college graduate, and even more importantly, that every family should have a teacher.")

The initiative reflects a shared belief that empowering future educators creates a ripple effect that benefits not only individual learners but also families, communities, and the nation. By reducing financial barriers to quality review programs, the partnership provides deserving students with greater opportunities to successfully obtain their professional licenses and pursue meaningful careers in education.

The partnership also marks a significant expansion of The Good One Foundation Inc.'s advocacy. While the foundation has long focused on disaster resilience initiatives, it now broadens its mission by investing in the education sector through scholarship and review support for future teachers. This initiative is realized in collaboration with one of the country's recognized review institutions, the Carl Balita Review Center.

This initiative advances SDG 4 (Quality Education) by strengthening teacher preparedness and expanding access to quality review opportunities, while promoting SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals) through collaboration among the academe, the nonprofit sector, and private institutions. It also embodies the University's core values of Passion for Learning and Innovation, Sense of Service, Inclusivity, and Excellence by empowering future educators with equitable opportunities to achieve professional success and contribute to nation-building.

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InterSEXtion 2026 Brings Gender and Economic Discourse to Life through Creative Advocacy

Tue, 07 Jul 2026 13:18:00 GMT

Chai Riz D. Chavez, News, College of Social Sciences and Development

In celebration of Pride Month, Sintang Paaralan strengthened its commitment to advancing diversity, equity, inclusion, and gender equality through the PUP Gender Equality Creativity Festival, held on June 17, 2026, at the PUP Gymnasium.

Serving as the festival's flagship event, "InterSEXtion 2026: Bridging Borders through Inclusive Gender and Economic Discourse" transformed the venue into an interactive learning space where academic concepts intersected with creative expression and social advocacy. The event was a joint project of the Department of Economics (DE) and Department of Broadcast Communication (DBC) as final output for classes in Special Topics in Economics under Assoc. Prof. Emy Ruth Gianan, and Gender and Media under Assoc. Prof. Krupskaya Valila — an initiative that was pioneered three years back. PUP Economics Research Society and Kasari-Sarian Organizing Committee served as the organizers of the full-day event.

The culminating activity brought together third-year BS Economics and first-year BA Broadcast Communication students in an airline-themed educational experience that explored the intersections of gender, economics, and human rights. Through interactive exhibits and advocacy-driven activities, participants examined how inclusive and equitable perspectives shape economic realities while celebrating the diversity of identities and cultures. By integrating classroom learning with creative engagement, the festival provided students with a platform to deepen their understanding of gender equality and social inclusion while demonstrating the University's continuing commitment to fostering an inclusive academic community.

_{Photo courtesy of: PUP Intersextion 2026 ‘Official’ Facebook Page}

The journey officially began with an opening program, where Assoc. Prof. Gianan shared the rationale behind the event and set the tone for the day's advocacies. Following the ceremonial ribbon-cutting, attendees used custom boarding passes to explore interactive country booths designed by the Department of Economics students. Each booth applied the Everyday Political Economies framework to demonstrate how gender dynamics influence household and national economic decisions across different countries.

The day-long festival successfully bridged rigorous academic analysis with meaningful social advocacy. Participants attended a thought-provoking forum by the College of Communication's Kasari-Sarian on Art for Stigma Reduction, which highlighted HIV/AIDS awareness, LGBTQIA+ inclusion, and mental health. The forum was followed by an impactful short film screening that further encouraged dialogue and reflection. The celebration continued with captivating drag performances from local drag queens, energizing the audience before culminating in a communal Grand Pakain, fostering a spirit of solidarity and inclusivity.

Beyond the academic showcases, the festival featured the participation of partners, sponsors, and official Econpreneurs—student-led enterprises such as Kismet & Petals and Upper East Crumbs—which operated booths showcasing and selling their products, demonstrating the students' entrepreneurial skills alongside their academic and advocacy initiatives.

The event concluded by recognizing the outstanding creativity and intellectual excellence of the participating Economics students. The section champions were Taiwan (BSE 3-1), India (BSE 3-2), Timor-Leste (BSE 3-3), and Thailand (BSE 3-4), while China (BSE 3-4) received the coveted People's Choice Award.

_{Photo courtesy of: PUP Intersextion 2026 ‘Official’ Facebook Page}

By seamlessly blending political economy with creative cultural expression, InterSEXtion 2026 became more than a culminating academic activity—it served as a meaningful celebration of Pride, gender equality, and inclusivity while demonstrating that economic discourse is most impactful when it is people-centered and responsive to real-world issues.

The initiative supports SDG 4 (Quality Education), SDG 5 (Gender Equality), SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities), and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals) through inclusive learning, student entrepreneurship, equitable participation, and institutional collaboration. It also embodies the PUP Core Values (INSPIRED) by promoting Integrity and Accountability, Passion for Learning and Innovation, Inclusivity, Respect for Human Rights and the Environment, Excellence, Sense of Service, and Democracy through responsible advocacy, collaborative learning, and meaningful community engagement.

Article edited by Gicel Roger B. Savilla, Communication Management Office.

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PAVIC Partnership Advances Inclusive Programs for Visually Impaired Children

Tue, 07 Jul 2026 10:04:00 GMT

Edmond Marqueses, News, College of Communication

The University and the Parent Advocates for Visually Impaired Children, Inc. (PAVIC) formalized a partnership through the signing of a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) on June 3, 2026, at the University’s Sta. Mesa Campus, reaffirming their shared commitment to advancing inclusive education and community development for blind and low-vision children.

Signing on behalf of the University were the Vice President for Research, Extension, and Development (OVPRED), Dr. Anna Ruby P. Gapasin; the Director of the Extension Management Office (EMO), Dr. Rolan J. Malvar; and the Dean of the PUP College of Human Kinetics (CHK), Dr. Geraldine C. Miñas. PAVIC, in turn, was represented by its Chairman, PMGEN Eleseo D. Dela Paz; its Area Supervisor for North Luzon and Auditor of the PAVIC Board, Arlene Aisha T. Tumbaga; and its President, Mr. Roden M. Torres.

The collaboration will be carried out through the University's flagship extension program, Salin-Kaalaman, Tungo sa Kaunlaran (SKTK), which promotes the transfer of knowledge and expertise to communities. Under the agreement, faculty members and personnel will design and implement extension initiatives that respond directly to the needs of visually impaired children and their families, ensuring that programs are inclusive, community-centered, and responsive to the realities of the beneficiaries.

Founded in 1999, PAVIC began as a small support group of parents in Manila raising blind and low-vision children with guidance from the U.S.-based Perkins International. Over the past 25 years, the organization has expanded into a nationwide network of more than 700 families. It has continuously championed inclusive education through advocacy efforts and programs such as annual sports activities that encourage children with visual impairments to participate in physical education and active recreation.

The partnership is carried out under the CHK Department of Sports Science, under the leadership of its Chairperson, Dr. Heildenberg C. Dimarucot, whose faculty will design and deliver the adaptive movement and fitness programs at the heart of the agreement. That understanding runs deep at CHK, whose mission has always stretched beyond training athletes and physical education teachers. Movement, the college holds, belongs to everyone — including children who cannot see the ball, the mat, or the dance steps, but can still feel the rhythm and the reach.

With the agreement now in effect, the University and PAVIC will work together to implement extension programs, capacity-building initiatives, and collaborative research that advance inclusive physical education and strengthen support systems for visually impaired children and their families. The partnership reflects the University's continuing commitment to advancing quality education, promoting health and well-being, reducing inequalities, and fostering meaningful partnerships for sustainable development in support of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 3, 4, 10, and 17. It also embodies the University's core values of Integrity and Accountability, Sense of Service, Passion for Learning and Innovation, Inclusivity, and Respect for Human Rights and the Environment, demonstrating its dedication to creating equitable opportunities and empowering communities through education and service.

Article edited by Gicel Roger B. Savilla, Communication Management Office.

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CADBE Achieves 100% Passing Rate, Named Top Performing School in June 2026 LEA

Mon, 06 Jul 2026 17:46:00 GMT

Jan Vincent Lanuza, News, Communication Management Office

The College of Architecture, Design, and Built Environment (CADBE) once again represented the University’s licensure examinations excellence as it was recognized as the Top Performing School (with 50 or more examinees and with at least 80% passing percentage) in the June 2026 Licensure Exams for Architects (LEA).

According to the results released on June 26 by the Professional Regulation Commission (PRC), CADBE scored a perfect 100% passing rate, tying with the University of Santo Tomas (UST) and the University of San Carlos (USC) for the distinction.

CADBE Dean Emilie T. Garcia expressed pride in this accomplishment, noting that it is the result of nearly four decades of steadfast commitment to excellence in architectural education. Furthermore, she stated that this serves as validation, affirming the dedication, perseverance, and shared vision of the college’s academic community.

“This historic accomplishment is the product of years of continuous improvement, even in the face of limited resources and facilities. CADBE has always been committed to providing students with the best possible preparation for professional practice. Our success is founded on a rigorous academic system that goes beyond the minimum requirements of the curriculum.” Garcia said.

She added that the careful assessment of incoming first-year students and the implementation of academic initiatives ensure student success as they mature into competent and skilled architects.

“From the careful screening of incoming students and qualifying examinations to departmental assessments, an intensive thesis program, and in-house board reviews, every stage of the students' academic journey is designed to instill resilience, competence, and excellence.” Garcia stated.

The CADBE Dean then congratulated the new PUPian architects for their hard work, sacrifices, and diligence in reaching this point. She promised that the college would continue working even harder to advance architectural education and produce architects who will “not only excel in the licensure examination but also make lasting contributions to the built environment and to society.”

This outstanding showing in the June 2026 LEA underscores CADBE's dedication to developing skilled, practice-ready architects who embody the ideals of the Sintang Paaralan. The accomplishment also supports the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), especially SDG 4 (Quality Education), through PUP's delivery of inclusive and accessible quality education.

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