Polytechnic University of the Philippines

Transformative Digital Public Service: PUP Signs MOA with GCash

Fri, 15 May 2026 16:15:00 GMT

Jan Vincent Lanuza, News, Communication Management Office

The Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP), in a bid to advance digital transformation, improve service delivery, and ensure transparent financial management, signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) with mobile payments service G-Xchange, Inc. (GCash) on May 6, 2026 at the Mateo Conference Room.

Led by the Fund Management Office (FMO), this agreement promises the PUP Community better, faster, and more efficient forms of service through digital payments.

FMO Director Catherine C. Oposa stated that through this MOA, the University will benefit from digital services such as Scan to Pay, Bills Payment, Mobile Payment, and Funds Disbursement Solutions. She then highlighted that these are not limited to the PUP Sta. Mesa Campus as it is a system-wide service, ensuring wider convenience and accessibility as part of PUP's digital transformation.

A commitment to modernization

Executive Vice President and Vice President for Planning and Finance Prof. Alberto C. Guillo said that the signed agreement directly supports the national government’s digitalization efforts by bridging public sector services and digital-first solutions, aligning with PUP’s goal for financial inclusion, transparency, and modernized governance.

“This MOA with GCash is not just about adapting to new technologies, it is providing our students and employees with seamless, reliable, instant solutions for their financial transactions.” Guillo said.

By partnering with GCash, Guillo expressed confidence in empowering students to manage their finances better, noting that it is the Sintang Paaralan’s responsibility to ensure faster, secure, and accessible services to the Iskolar ng Bayan.

University President Dr. Manuel M. Muhi declared that this new partnership is a concrete step towards financial inclusion, efficiency, and empowerment, equipping students with tools that enable them to manage resources responsibly, access financial services conveniently, and participate more actively in the digital economy.

Muhi asserted that with this partnership with GCash, students will experience the security, convenience, and innovation brought by this digital platform, molding them to not just be academically gifted, but also financially and digitally literate.

Effective public service delivery

The president added that the success of this initiative is deeply rooted in the government’s Ease of Doing Business (EODB) mandate. By continuously re-engineering and improving its systems, the University ensures that EODB is a right every member of the PUP Community deserves.

Cleo Celeste Santos, Head of the GCash Public Sector, echoed Muhi’s words, stating that this MOA aims to elevate public service delivery through digitalization and teaching the next generation to manage their finances responsibly in the digital world

“By providing these options, we remove the friction of payment, allowing students to focus on what matters more—their education.” Santos remarked.

To close the program, Assistant to the Vice President for Planning and Finance Prof. Sharon F. Pelayo thanked everyone’s participation as today’s showing is “a reflection of the University’s drive to constantly make its services accessible, efficient, and responsive to the needs of the PUP Community.” Through this occasion, she said, PUP is moving closer to modern and convenient ways of doing business.

Present to witness the proceedings were the following University officials: Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Emanuel C. De Guzman; Vice President for Student Affairs and Services Prof. Tomas O. Testor; Vice President for Research, Extension, and Development Dr. Anna Ruby P. Gapasin; Vice President for Administration Prof. Adam V. Ramilo; Chief Legal Counsel Atty. Joanna Marie A. Liao; Budget Services Office Director Assoc. Prof. Queen D. Franada; Accounting Department Director Atty. Mark Julius V. Dosil; and Resource Generation Office Director Atty. Brian Jacob D. Medina; alongside GCash Regional Head Rafael Antonio R. Tecson and Account Manager Joanne B. Magno.

The day also featured a GCash card distribution led by the Office of Scholarship and Financial Assistance (OSFA), where selected PUP scholars received the initial rollout of the new funds' disbursement service

PUP’s partnership with one of the top digital wallet companies in GCash reflects its commitment to empowering the Iskolar ng Bayan and advancing financial inclusion through innovative digital solutions. This aligns with the University’s Strategic Goals, particularly in SG 3 in Holistic Student Development by providing accessible financial transactions for students, SG 5 by creating sustainable extension program, SG 8 in ensuring ethical stewardship of financial resources, SG 9 in effective management systems through efficient disbursement of funds, SG 10 client satisfaction with the improved transparency and service delivery.

Furthermore, it supports the United Nations (UN) Sustainable Development Goals (SDG): No. 4 in quality education, No. 8 in providing decent work and economic growth and No. 17 in forming and strengthening multi-stakeholder partnerships.

View this article in PUPWebSite

Proctor and Gamble returns to Sintang Paaralan for Second Masterclass

Tue, 12 May 2026 09:05:00 GMT

Jan Vincent Lanuza, News, Communication Management Office

Multinational consumer goods company Procter & Gamble (P&G) returned to the Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP) for the second edition of its Masterclass series, held on May 7 at the Claro M. Recto Hall.

In partnership with the Alumni Relations and Career Development Office (ARCDO), the event aimed to develop the skills of future professionals through tailor-made topics specific to the Iskolar ng Bayan, covering business communication, case study research, navigating the corporate life, personal brand cultivation, and job interview strategies.

Led by event lecturers Finance and Accounting (F&A) Senior Manager Clarens Navor, F&A Manager Micko Gargarita, and F&A Manager Jessica Nuñez, the company focused heavily on honing the students’ soft skills, noting that they are vital for long-term employment, career development, and career sustainability.

Talent Acquisition Manager Lance Salazar, in the opening remarks, discussed the history of P&G and its significant impact on both the Filipino market and popular culture, while presenting opportunities the company can provide for interns and future employees. Meanwhile, F&A Director Amanda “Mandy” Gaw shared her personal experience working for P&G, noting that the organizational culture and growth possibilities convinced her to stay with them. She expressed hope to see more PUPians join the company.

When asked about the key qualities of PUP graduates that make them valuable to P&G, Navor highlighted that they are talented, diligent, resilient, and great executors—hence the company's decision to choose PUP as a venue to attract more talent and customize the Masterclass specifically for them.

“We want to know kung ano talaga ang kailangan ng mga students. When interviewing with team members that are PUP alumni, they actually customize it in a way na culture ni PUP. Gusto nilang matulungan ang mga PUP graduates na makapasa sa interview.” Navor said.

(We want to know what the students really need. When we interview team members who are PUP alumni, they help customize the program in a way that aligns with PUP's culture. They want to help PUP graduates succeed in their interviews.)

The Master Class program also included upskilling activities such as Case Study Presentation, Mock Interviews, and a Question and Answer (Q&A) segment, where the students showcased their marketing and communication skills, received constructive feedback from the P&G personnel, and shared their inquiries about the company.

Several Iskolar ng Bayan had shared positive receptions for this event. Lara Mickaella Elca, a fourth- year student from the College of Accountancy and Finance (CAF) shared her appreciation for the P&G Master Class, relaying that the employment tips and advice on what to avoid during the hiring process were valuable takeaways.

Alexa Marie Silvestre, a fourth-year student from the College of Business Administration (CBA), noted that the light and relatable atmosphere of the event allowed her to digest information provided by the specialists and managers and convey insights without feeling intimidated. Meanwhile, Sherinne Ann Marie Basco, also a 4th Year CBA student, shared that this occasion inspired her to reflect on her current skills and what she can develop once she enters the professional world.

All students expressed their gratitude to both P&G and the Sintang Paaralan for opening doors for career development and progression, helping them find their future direction after graduation.

PUP and P&G’s collaboration in the 2nd Master Class reflects the University’s mission to provide more employment and career development opportunities to the Iskolar ng Bayan. This demonstrates its commitment to the United Nations (UN) Sustainable Development Goals (SDG): No. 4 in quality education, No. 8 in providing decent work and economic growth and No. 17 in forming and strengthening multi-stakeholder partnerships

With this recent development, PUP strived to offer more skill-based seminars and lectures to PUPians, factors that are critical to their progression from students to professionals.

View this article in PUPWebSite

ASEAN AI Hackathon 2026 Brings Together Innovators for Collaborative Solutions

Thu, 07 May 2026 17:56:00 GMT

Gicel Roger Salvilla, News, Communication Management Office

The PUP Research Institute for Strategic Foresight and Innovation (RISFI), hosted its segment of the ASEAN AI Hackathon 2026, an initiative that convened student innovators, academic leaders, and partner institutions under the theme “AI for a Resilient ASEAN: Innovation, Sustainability, and Humanity.”

Photo courtesy of: PUP Research Institute for Strategic Foresight and Innovation 'Official' Facebook Page

The event served as a strategic platform for knowledge exchange and collaboration across Southeast Asia, reinforcing the shared vision of developing responsible and future-ready AI solutions. It gathered key members of the technical committee, including Dr. James Ronald O. Mesina (Mapúa Malayan Colleges Laguna), PUP Vice President for Research, Extension, and Development, Dr. Anna Ruby P. Gapasin, and Assoc. Prof. Nguyen Gia Nhu (Duy Tan University), highlighting strong inter-institutional partnerships.

Dr. Hang Le, Director of the P2A Secretariat and Vice Provost of Duy Tan University, emphasized the importance of regional cooperation in advancing AI innovation. This direction was reinforced by keynote speakers Dr. Ethel Valenzuela, Chair of the ASEAN AI Council, and Prof. Duong Quang Trung, President of the ASEAN Research Network, who underscored the role of artificial intelligence in promoting resilience, sustainability, and inclusive growth across ASEAN nations.

Photo courtesy of: PUP Research Institute for Strategic Foresight and Innovation 'Official' Facebook Page

A central component of the PUP-hosted activities was the Technical Architecture and Data Ethics Workshop, facilitated by PUP experts Dr. Robert G. de Luna, Engr. Marife A. Rosales, Engr. Orland D. Tubola, and Engr. Tristan L. Velardo. The session focused on responsible AI development, ethical data use, and sustainable technological practices—key considerations in the evolving digital landscape.

Photo courtesy of: PUP Research Institute for Strategic Foresight and Innovation 'Official' Facebook Page

Dr. Anna Ruby P. Gapasin, who emphasized the need to sustain academic collaborations and innovation-driven initiatives to ensure a resilient ASEAN. The event recorded significant engagement, with 1,080+ student participants, 240+ registered projects, 100+ institutions, and representation from nine ASEAN countries, reflecting the scale and impact of the initiative.

Aligned with global development priorities, the ASEAN AI Hackathon 2026 contributes to several United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The initiative supports SDG 4 (Quality Education) by enhancing competencies in artificial intelligence and innovation; SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure) through the promotion of research and technological advancement; and SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities) by encouraging AI-driven solutions to societal challenges. It also upholds SDG 16 (Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions) through its emphasis on data ethics and responsible AI, and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals) by strengthening regional cooperation among ASEAN institutions. Through this initiative, the University continues to contribute to the advancement of a collaborative, innovative, and sustainable ASEAN community.

View this article in PUPWebSite

Architecture student wins Best Green Innovation Award at AYDA 2026

Wed, 06 May 2026 17:27:00 GMT

Brent Soriano, News, Communication Management Office

The PUP College of Architecture, Design and the Built Environment (CADBE) proudly celebrates the remarkable achievement of architecture student Emerson Oseo Jr., who was honored with the Best Green Innovation Award (Architecture Category) during the prestigious Asia Young Designer Award (AYDA Design Competition) held on March 19, 2026.

Photo courtesy of: PUP CADBE

In addition to this distinction, Oseo Jr. was recognized as one of the Top 10 finalists nationwide, emerging from a highly competitive pool of entries. His work stood out for its innovative approach to sustainable architecture, demonstrating both technical excellence and a forward-thinking vision for environmentally responsible design.

Photo courtesy of: PUP CADBE

Guided by his coach, Ar. Anthony Yan, a dedicated faculty member of CADBE, Oseo Jr.’s achievement reflects the strength of mentorship and academic support within the College.

This milestone aligns with the UN SDGs, particularly in advancing SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure) through sustainable design solutions, promoting SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities) by envisioning resilient and eco-friendly built environments, and supporting SDG 13 (Climate Action) through the integration of environmentally responsible strategies in architectural practice.

The recognition brings immense pride to CADBE and the Sintang Paaralan, signifying their continued commitment to excellence in innovation and sustainability. It also highlights the vital role of emerging architects in shaping a greener, more sustainable future for communities both locally and globally.

View this article in PUPWebSite

CELC Moving-Up Ceremony Celebrates Young Learners and Community Partnership

Wed, 06 May 2026 17:16:00 GMT

Gicel Roger Salvilla, News, Communication Management Office

A heartfelt celebration of growth, learning, and hope marked the Moving-Up Ceremony of the Community Extension Learning Center (CELC) of the College of Education, held on May 5, 2026, at Bulwagang Bonifacio. Centered on the theme “Binhi ng Karunungan, Pag-asa ng Kinabukasan,” the event recognized the achievements of pre-school learners from Sections Mabuti and Mahusay—honoring not only their academic progress but also the values they cultivated inside and beyond the classroom.

The ceremony brought together key stakeholders, including the College of Education Dean, Dr. Rosemariebeth R. Dizon, Dr. Daizlyn C. Palillo, Chairperson of the Department of Secondary Education, and Dr. Ma. Carmela Asebias, Chairperson of the Department of Early Childhood and Elementary Education, along with Bachelor of Early Childhood Education student teachers, parents, guardians, and community leaders. Strengthening the initiative was its active partnership with Barangay 630, led by Hon. Cristina Lara, reflecting a shared commitment to nurturing young learners within the community.

In her message, Dean Dizon likened the learners to growing trees, underscoring the transformative impact of proper care and guidance. “Etong mga punong ito, nag-umpisa lamang sa maliit na binhi, pero dahil sa pag-aalaga at pagbibigay ng kanilang mga pangangailangan, sila ay lumago,” she shared (“These trees, representing the students, started as small seeds, but through proper care and support, they have grown.”).

She further emphasized the value of collective effort, adding, “Sa sama-sama nating pagtutulungan—kasama ang College of Education, Barangay 630, at kayo pong mga magulang at guardians—ang mga batang ito ay lalago at mamumunga balang araw” (“Through our collective efforts—with the College of Education, Barangay 630, and the parents and guardians—these children will grow and bear fruit in time.”). Her message highlighted how meaningful education thrives through strong collaboration among schools, families, and the community.

Parents expressed deep gratitude for the CELC’s role in shaping their children’s development. Mrs. Keinnette Morris shared her pride in her daughter’s transformation, noting, “I am proud and surprised kasi hindi ko in-expect na may i-eenhance pa pala ang anak ko. Nahubog siya ng CELC—hindi lang sa academics, kundi pati sa manners at self-care, at malaki ang pagbabago” (“I am proud and surprised because I did not expect my child could still improve further. CELC helped shape her—not only academically, but also in manners and self-care, and the change has been significant.”). Her testimony reflects the program’s holistic approach, emphasizing both academic excellence and character formation.

For student teachers, CELC served as a meaningful avenue for both professional and personal growth. Khryss Reanne P. Laurente, a third-year Bachelor of Early Childhood Education student, shared a memorable experience: “For two years bilang CELC volunteer teacher, isa sa mga pinaka-memorable sa akin ay kapag napapadaan lang ako, tapos may biglang babati ng ‘Hi Teacher Khryss!’ o ‘Teacher ko yan!’—sobrang nakaka-heartwarming” (“For two years as a CELC volunteer teacher, one of my most memorable experiences is when I am simply passing by and suddenly hear ‘Hi Teacher Khryss!’ or ‘That’s my teacher!’—it is incredibly heartwarming.”).

She also underscored the value of early teaching exposure, saying, “Sobrang laking tulong na na-expose ako sa ganitong opportunity… imagine, second year pa lang ako, nabigyan na ako ng pagkakataong makapagturo sa mga bata” (“It has been a huge help to be exposed to this opportunity… imagine, even as a second-year student, I was already given the chance to teach children.”). Her insights illustrate how the College of Education cultivates future educators who are not only skilled in pedagogy but also grounded in empathy and community engagement.

The CELC initiative strongly supports several United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 4 (Quality Education) by promoting inclusive and accessible early childhood learning, SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities) through its collaboration with Barangay 630, SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals) by strengthening ties among educational institutions, local government, and families, and SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being) by fostering self-care and values formation among learners. More than a ceremonial milestone, the CELC Moving-Up event stands as a powerful testament to what can be achieved when education, community, and compassion come together—reminding all that every child’s success is a shared triumph shaped by collective effort.

View this article in PUPWebSite

Quality Engineering Programs: PTC Awards Tier 1 Status to the Sintang Paaralan

Thu, 30 Apr 2026 19:44:00 GMT

Jan Vincent Lanuza, News, Communication Management Office

The Quality Assurance Center (QAC), following the successful assessment and evaluation of engineering practices, has led the awarding ceremony of the Polytechnic University of the Philippines’ (PUP) attainment of the Philippine Technological Council’s (PTC) Tier 1 status at Silid Lakan Dayang, University Library on April 24.

Awarded by the PTC, this classification signifies PUP’s robust capability and institutional autonomy, balanced with public accountability, to consistently deliver accredited engineering programs to the standards of international recognition bodies, such as the Washington Accord.

Further, PTC’s Tier 1 Classification to PUP, valid for six years, is vital for the University’s engineering programs as they pursue accreditation from the Accreditation and Certification Board for Engineering Technology (ACBET)

University President Dr. Manuel M. Muhi expressed his gratitude to the PTC for this achievement and to the QAC and College of Engineering (COE) for their hard work on making this accomplishment possible.

“This reflects our collective commitment to excellence, to global standards in engineering education. We are now recognized under the Washington Accords, which means our engineering programs are substantially equivalent among signatory nations, and this will facilitate the mobility of our graduates, allowing them to work and be recognized globally.” Muhi said.

Muhi added that this recognition advances PUP's goal of becoming the country's leading polytechnic university, contributing significantly to polytechnic and engineering education by elevating local programs to international standards.

QAC Director Dr. Sanjay P. Claudio noted that the University’s quality assurance goal is not just to achieve local accreditation, but also international recognition to raise education standards for the welfare of the Iskolar ng Bayan.

“We’re not doing this for the sake of rankings,” Claudio said. “We really do all of this, submitting our course programs for external quality assurance, is because of our students. We believe that quality, first and foremost, is our responsibility. We need to make sure that we’re able to submit and humbly get the opinion, as well as assessment of external accrediting bodies so that we would be able to improve and address all these concerns.”

The Sintang Paaralan, with this achievement, is now the third state university to attain PTC Tier 1 status, following the University of the Philippines and the Batangas State University in this honor.

Following this new accolade, the COE will undergo an on-site evaluation by the PTC in August for its Bachelor of Science programs in Civil Engineering, Computer Engineering, and Electronics Engineering.

After remarks from Claudio and Muhi, PTC President Engr. Federico A. Monsada discussed the organization's history and role in advancing engineering education, as well as the field's significance to societal development. Assistant Director for Institutional and International Quality Assurance Dr. Luisito L. Lacatan then delivered the closing remarks, emphasizing that "excellence is not a destination, but a continuing pursuit."

Also present to witness the proceedings were University officials, Executive Vice President and Vice President for Planning and Finance Prof. Alberto C. Guillo and Assistant Vice President for Academic Affairs Edelyn M. Mariano-Guillo, alongside accreditation leaders ACBET Chair Dr. Lydia G. Tansinsin and Engineering Accreditation Commission (EAC) Chair Dr. May Rose C. Imperial. PUP deans, COE officials, Quality Assurance coordinators, and PTC members also attended.

PUP’s new Tier 1 status reflects its mission to improve engineering education for aspiring engineers from the Sintang Paaralan, demonstrating its commitment to the United Nations (UN) Sustainable Development Goals (SDG): No. 4 in quality education, No. 8 in providing decent work and economic growth and No. 17 in forming and strengthening multi-stakeholder partnerships.

View this article in PUPWebSite

Future Engineers Ignite Innovation Through ‘SIDLAK,’ Heading to Poland for Global Eco-Marathon Competition

Thu, 30 Apr 2026 19:20:00 GMT

Gicel Roger Salvilla, News, Communication Management Office

As the countdown begins for the Shell Eco-marathon Autonomous Driving Competition in Poland on June 24–28, 2026, a team of young PUP student-innovators is accelerating their preparations. They’re bringing not just a prototype vehicle, but a vision of sustainable engineering built from purpose, resilience, and ingenuity.

Representing the country as the sole Philippine team, PUP WIRED—the university-wide organization and official Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineer (IEEE) student branch, in partnership with TESDA RTC NCR—has assembled a multidisciplinary group of engineering students to compete in one of the world’s most prestigious energy-efficiency challenges. Their entry, a prototype electric vehicle named SIDLAK—a Visayan term meaning to shine, radiate, or brilliance—captures the team’s aspiration to illuminate the future of mobility through innovation. Leading the team is Cristian Marl Maranon (BS Electrical Engineering, 4th year) as Team Manager, alongside Angel Ortega (BS Electrical Engineering, 4th year) as Technical Lead. The engineering backbone of SIDLAK is supported by John Louis Alano (BS Mechanical Engineering, 4th year) as Mechanical Lead, Dwayne Brayan Cahilig (BS Mechanical Engineering, 4th year) as Fabrication Lead, and Chris Celine Tibule (BS Electrical Engineering, 3rd year) handling braking systems. Completing the team are Rodeliene Aloc (BS Electrical Engineering, 4th year) for ergonomics, Ian Lourenz Santos (BS Electrical Engineering, 4th year) for electrical systems, and software leads Daniel Cosare (BS Computer Engineering, 3rd year) and John Paul Curada (BS Computer Science, 3rd year). Guiding them are faculty advisers Engr. Benson Pulga, Engr. Kevin Suliva, and Dr. Edison Mojica.

At the heart of their journey is a shared mission to redefine mobility through sustainability. For Maranon, the competition is more than a technical pursuit, it is a platform to elevate Filipino talent on the global stage. “We’ll try our best to win this competition and show that Filipino and PUPian talent can be internationalized and proudly represented abroad,” he shared. The inspiration behind SIDLAK is grounded in real-world challenges. Amid the global energy crisis, the team recognized the urgency of developing cleaner alternatives. Their solution: an electric vehicle prototype built not from costly imports, but from recycled materials sourced from previous projects and scrap within the college—a testament to both resourcefulness and environmental responsibility. “As future engineers, we want to make the future sustainable. We want to make it coal-free, carbon-free, and focus more on the engineering and efficiency side so we really want to push this innovation further,” Maranon emphasized. The project reflects a deeper commitment—not only to technological advancement but also to long-term impact. For PUP WIRED, SIDLAK is just the beginning. “As an organization, we want to push this project to more heights and to join more competition yearly about sustainability,” he added.

Their work directly contributes to several 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 developing an energy-efficient, low-emission vehicle using recycled materials, the team demonstrates how student-led innovation can address global environmental challenges while promoting sustainable industrial practices. As they prepare to represent the Philippines on the international stage, the team is also extending an invitation to the wider community support. “We would like to invite all PUPians, kapwa iskolar ng bayan to cheer us on… as the sole team and university from the Philippines to join the Shell Eco Marathon in Poland. We also would like to invite companies, especially renewable companies, who would want to support us on this initiative,” Maranon called. With travel, logistics, and technical development requiring significant resources, the team is open to partnerships, sponsorships, and donations that will help bring SIDLAK to Poland.

Those who wish to support or collaborate with the team may reach them through their official Facebook page, PUP WIRED, or via email at officialeewired@gmail.com and cristianmarl.maranon10@gmail.com.

As SIDLAK prepares to take on the roads of Poland, it carries more than engineering precision—it carries the drive of a nation, powered by young minds determined to shine, radiate, and bring brilliance to a more sustainable future.

View this article in PUPWebSite

CHK Unveils State-of-the-Art Laboratory to Strengthen Sports Science Education

Thu, 30 Apr 2026 18:58:00 GMT

Gicel Roger Salvilla, News, Communication Management Office

The College of Human Kinetics marked a defining moment for sports science education with the blessing and inauguration of its Exercise and Science Sports Laboratory on April 17, 2026, at the PUP Sta. Mesa Campus, CHK Laboratory Room. More than a ceremonial opening, the event signaled the arrival of a long-envisioned space where science, performance, and education intersect—built through years of persistence, collaboration, and institutional support.

University officials, faculty, and guests gathered to witness the unveiling of a facility designed to strengthen instruction, research, and athlete development. The laboratory now stands as a hub for evidence-based training, assessment, and innovation—equipping students and educators with tools that mirror real-world sports science practice.

At the heart of the ceremony was a message from Assistant Professor Antonio F. Enriquez Jr., former Chairperson of the Department of Sports Science, who traced the laboratory’s origins to a vision formed nearly a decade ago. His reflection captured both the struggle and the triumph behind the project:

“A dream that began in 2017 when I was designated as Chair of the Department of Sports Science, kasabay ng pagkakatatag ng BSESS Program. Hindi naging madali ang journey na ito. It is rooted in years of perseverance, determination, and collective effort.” (A dream that began in 2017 when I was designated as Chair of the Department of Sports Science, alongside the establishment of the BSESS Program. This journey was not easy. It is rooted in years of perseverance, determination, and collective effort.)

He further emphasized the realities faced during the program’s early stages—moments that underscored the community’s commitment to building something meaningful:

“May panahon na kinailangan pa nating manghiram ng equipment mula sa isa sa ating faculty members just to comply with the requirements for COPC at Accreditation—isang malinaw na patunay ng dedikasyon at commitment ng bawat isa para maitayo ang programang ito mula sa simula.” (There was a time when we had to borrow equipment from one of our faculty members just to comply with COPC and accreditation requirements—a clear testament to everyone’s dedication and commitment to building this program from the ground up.

His message also carried gratitude, recognizing the leadership and collective effort that transformed the vision into reality—from university executives to academic leaders, administrative units, and laboratory personnel. The acknowledgment extended to past and present leadership whose guidance laid the groundwork and sustained the momentum of the project.

“Ang laboratory ito ay hindi lamang isang facility, kundi simbolo ng ating mga pinagdaanan, mga pagsubok, at walang sawang pagsisikap at pagmamahal para sa kalidad na edukasyon.” (This laboratory is not just a facility, but a symbol of our journey, our challenges, and our tireless effort and passion for quality education.)

Following the ribbon-cutting, guests toured the laboratory, witnessing firsthand the equipment and spaces that will support performance testing, rehabilitation, and research. The facility is expected to elevate the learning experience of students under the Bachelor of Science in Exercise and Sports Sciences (BSESS) program while strengthening the institution’s contribution to the broader sports and health sector.

Beyond its academic value, the new laboratory contributes to several Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). It directly supports SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being by promoting scientific approaches to physical fitness, injury prevention, and athlete care. It also aligns with SDG 4: Quality Education, providing students with access to modern facilities that enhance practical learning and research competence. Moreover, the initiative reflects SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure, as it strengthens institutional capacity for innovation in sports science and human performance.

As the ceremony concluded, the laboratory stood not just as a new physical space, but as a testament to what sustained vision and collective effort can achieve. What began as a modest aspiration—supported by borrowed equipment and determination—has evolved into a fully realized center for learning and innovation, ready to shape the next generation of sports science professionals.

View this article in PUPWebSite

Campuses and academic extension programs celebrate successful PUPCET administration

Fri, 24 Apr 2026 10:06:00 GMT

Jan Vincent Lanuza, News, Communication Management Office

Photo Courtesy: PUP Sta Rosa Laguna Campus

In its search for the next generation of Iskolar ng Bayan, several campuses and academic extension programs of the Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP) administered the annual PUP College Entrance Test (PUPCET) throughout March and April.

Campuses in Biñan, Cabiao, Calauan, Caloocan, General Luna, Leyte, Lopez, Mulanay, Pakil, Quezon City, Ragay, San Juan, San Pedro, Sta. Maria, Sta. Rosa, Sto. Tomas, Taguig, and Unisan, welcomed their respective applicants from across the Philippines. This initiative was led by the PUPCET Committee under the joint supervision of Vice President for Student Affairs and Services Prof. Tomas O. Testor and Vice President for Campuses Prof. Pascualito B. Gatan, alongside respective campus directors, faculty, administrative staff, and local government unit (LGU) officials.

Other PUP campuses will conduct their respective PUPCET schedules this May. Campuses in Alfonso, Bansud, Bataan, Maragondon, Parañaque, Pulilan, Sablayan, and Talisay are set to hold their test on various dates. PUP hopefuls who have not yet secured their examination slots are encouraged to check the application and examination schedules of their preferred PUP Campuses below and apply via iApply

PUP Campus	Application Schedule	Examination Schedule
Alfonso	Ongoing until May 9, 2026 (Saturday)	May 10, 2026 (Sunday)
Bansud	Ongoing until May 2, 2026 (Saturday)	May 3, 2026 (Sunday)
Bataan	Ongoing until April 25, 2026 (Saturday)	May 3, 2026 (Sunday)
Maragondon	Ongoing until April 30, 2026 (Thursday)	May 10, 2026 (Sunday)
Parañaque	Closed since March 31, 2026	May 3, 2026 (Sunday)
Pulilan	Ongoing until April 25, 2026 (Saturday)	May 23, 2026 (Saturday)
Sablayan	Ongoing until May 4, 2026 (Monday)	May 5, 2026 (Tuesday)
Talisay	Ongoing until May 5, 2026 (Tuesday)	May 9, 2026 (Saturday)

For PUPCET and enrollment updates, applicants are advised to check the official announcements on the PUP website and the official Facebook page of each PUP campus.

As Campuses gear up to welcome the next generation of PUPians in Academic Year 2026-2027, the successful implementation of their PUPCET reflects the Sintang Paaralan’s mission to provide accessible and quality education to Filipinos. It also demonstrates the University’s commitment to the United Nations (UN) Sustainable Development Goals (SDG), particularly SDG 4 in quality education; SDG 8 by preparing future professionals for meaningful careers; and SDG 10 by expanding opportunities for students from diverse and underserved backgrounds.

View this article in PUPWebSite

Rice University strengthens academic ties with PUP

Thu, 23 Apr 2026 20:02:00 GMT

Christoper Sasot, News, International Relations Office

The Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP) strengthened its international academic engagement through a strategic partnership with Rice University, one of the leading research universities in the United States. The collaboration was formalized through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) during the visit of internationally renowned nanotechnology expert Pulickel M. Ajayan to the PUP Mabini Campus.

The MOU signing ceremony marked the official launch of the academic partnership between the two institutions. Present during the signing were College of Engineering Dean, Dr. Remedios Ado and representatives from the PUP International Relations Office, reflecting the university’s commitment to strengthening international academic cooperation and expanding opportunities for Filipino students and researchers.

The agreement establishes a framework for collaboration in key areas including joint research initiatives, faculty and student exchanges, internship and immersion opportunities, international conferences, and the exchange of scholarly publications and instructional resources. The partnership is expected to foster interdisciplinary research and academic engagement across multiple fields of study.

Following the signing ceremony, Dr. Ajayan delivered a public seminar titled “Nano-Engineered Materials: Opportunities,” attended by faculty members, researchers, and students from various colleges within the university.

In his lecture, Ajayan explored the transformative potential of nanotechnology and advanced materials in addressing contemporary scientific and technological challenges. The seminar highlighted emerging developments in the design and synthesis of functional nano-engineered materials, including carbon-based systems, boron–nitrogen–carbon materials, two-dimensional materials, and single-atom catalysts.

These materials are opening new frontiers in fields such as energy storage, advanced manufacturing, electronics, and sustainable technologies.

Dr. Ajayan is widely recognized as one of the world’s leading scholars in nanotechnology. Over nearly three decades, he has published more than 1,300 scientific papers and has received over 230,000 citations for his work, demonstrating the global impact of his research in materials science and nanotechnology.

The seminar was followed by an open forum where students engaged Dr. Ajayan in discussions on research careers, graduate study opportunities, and the future of nanotechnology. The exchange provided students with valuable insights into global research trends and encouraged them to pursue advanced studies and interdisciplinary collaboration in science and engineering.

The partnership with Rice University represents an important milestone in PUP’s continuing efforts to expand its global academic network and strengthen its internationalization initiatives, consistent with SDG 17, partnership for the goals.

By connecting Filipino scholars and students with internationally recognized researchers and institutions, the collaboration is expected to enhance research capacity, promote innovation, and create new opportunities for academic exchange and knowledge production.

Through partnerships such as this, PUP continues to advance its mission of providing accessible, high-quality education while positioning its faculty and students to participate more actively in the global academic community.

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