Polytechnic University of the Philippines

“Kababaihan ng Maynila” Forum advances dialogue on women’s empowerment

Tue, 10 Mar 2026 17:51:00 GMT

Gicel Roger Salvilla, News, Communication Management Office

In celebration of Women’s Month 2026, Sintang Paaralan hosted a forum titled “Mga Batas para msngsa Kababaihan: Tagumpay, Hamon, at Susunod na Laban!” on March 5, 2026 at the PUP Gymnasium. The event gathered members of the PUP community, senior citizens, and barangay officials from Sta. Mesa and Pandacan to discuss key legislations that promote the protection, empowerment, and welfare of Filipino women.

The activity was organized by the Gender Equity and Diversity and Social Inclusion Office (GEDSIO), in partnership with the Ang Ina ng Bayan Brotherhood Foundation for Community Development and the College of Law, under the theme “Kababaihan ng Maynila: May Boses, May Lakas. Panalo!” The forum aimed to highlight women’s achievements while recognizing the continuing challenges faced by women in society.

Present during the event were PUP President Manuel M. Muhi, Dr. Anna Ruby P. Gapasin, Vice President for Research, Extension and Development, Dean Gemy Lito Festin of the College of Law, former Representative Sandy Ocampo from Manila’s 6th District, and Judy Miranda of the Ina ng Bayan Brotherhood Foundation. The gathering was also attended by members of the PUP community, senior citizens, and barangay officials, reflecting the strong collaboration between the university and local communities.

The highlight of the forum was the keynote address delivered by Senator Risa Hontiveros, who emphasized the significance of celebrating women’s achievements while recognizing the daily realities many Filipino women experience. She noted that while milestones for women deserve recognition, many Filipinos continue to struggle with basic needs and survival.

As she shared in her speech, “Deserve natin ipagdiwang ang tagumpay ng kababaihan, pero para sa nakakaraming Pilipino, ang usapin ay hindi naman ambisyon—ang usapin ay paano ba makatawid sa araw-araw.” (“We deserve to celebrate the achievements of women, but for many Filipinos, the issue is not the ambition—it is how to get through everyday life.”)

The senator further emphasized how women often bear the brunt of systemic problems, particularly in times of poverty and inequality. She highlighted that women’s labor—especially unpaid or unrecognized work—remains undervalued despite its crucial role in sustaining families and communities.

She explained, “Tayo ang mga kababaihan ang sumasalo kapag pangit ang sistema. Mas malalim at mas matagal ang tama ng kahirapan sa kababaihan—hindi dahil kaunti ang ambag natin, hindi dahil kaunti ang trabaho natin, kundi dahil napakarami sa trabaho ng babae ang hindi nakikita at hindi kinikilala.” (“Women are often the ones who absorb the impact when systems fail. Poverty affects women more deeply and for longer—not because we contribute less or work less, but because so much of women’s labor remains unseen and unrecognized.”)

During her address, Hontiveros also highlighted several landmark pieces of legislation that support the welfare and protection of women and families. These include the Expanded Maternity Leave Law, which provides longer maternity leave benefits for working mothers; the Safe Spaces Act (Bawal Bastos Law) that protects individuals from gender-based harassment in public spaces; the Expanded Solo Parents Welfare Act, which strengthens assistance and benefits for solo parents; and the Anti-OSAEC and Anti-CSAEM Act, which combats online sexual abuse and exploitation of children.

As Chairperson of the Senate Committee on Health and Demography, Hontiveros likewise expressed her commitment to improving public health services through the continued strengthening of the Universal Health Care program. She also shared updates on legislative initiatives aimed at supporting senior citizens, including the proposed Philippine Geriatric Center and a bill that seeks to provide an additional ?1,500 monthly pension, along with free vitamins and supplements for elderly Filipinos.

In closing, the senator called on the public to continue advocating for policies that protect women’s dignity, security, and well-being, emphasizing that the struggle for equality and justice remains ongoing.

As she concluded her message, “Kaya ngayong panahon ng kababaihan, hindi lang tayo magdiriwang—mananawagan tayo para sa dignidad, seguridad, at higit sa lahat ginhawa ng lahat. Hindi pa tapos ang laban.” (“This Women’s Month, we will not only celebrate—we will also call for dignity, security, and above all, a better quality of life for everyone. The struggle is not yet over.”)

The forum reaffirmed the university’s commitment to fostering conversations that promote gender equity, inclusive governance, and community empowerment. By bringing together policymakers, academic leaders, and local communities, the event strengthened efforts to advance women’s rights and recognize their vital contributions to society.

Aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), the activity supports SDG 5: Gender Equality, which promotes the empowerment of women and girls and the elimination of discrimination and violence against them. The discussions on healthcare access and social protection also reflect the principles of SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being, while initiatives addressing social disparities align with SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities. Through initiatives like this forum, the university continues to contribute to national and global efforts toward building a more inclusive and equitable society.

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PUP secures a top spot in uniRank 2025 University Rankings

Mon, 09 Mar 2026 12:00:00 GMT

Jan Vincent Lanuza, News, Communication Management Office

The Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP) has once again demonstrated its academic excellence in the uniRank 2025 University Rankings, securing the No. 2 spot among universities in the Philippines (out of 232 institutions), No. 2 in the National Capital Region (out of 69 universities), and a placed 125th amongst 200 universities in Asia.

This recognition from the leading international higher education portal extends PUP’s streak of inclusion in uniRank’s Top 10 Universities since 2017. The University is also one of the two state universities and colleges (SUCs) that secured a top 10 spot in this year’s rankings.

University President Dr. Manuel M. Muhi stated, building on this notable achievement, the Sintang Paaralan will continue to enhance university services, not just to meet local and international academic standards, but also for the benefit of the Iskolar ng Bayan.

The Sintang Paaralan, with this high university ranking, reaffirms its commitment on not only providing quality, accessible, and affordable education, but also opening new doors in partnerships, growing more research collaborations, and developing industry-ready graduates. These efforts align with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)—particularly SDG 4 (Quality Education), SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure), and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals)—thereby affirming the university’s role in advancing inclusive, innovative, and sustainable education for all.

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25 programs accredited by end of 2025

Fri, 06 Mar 2026 18:32:00 GMT

Brent Soriano, News, Communication Management Office

Our Sintang Paaralan has achieved a significant institutional milestone in the first quarter of 2026 with 25 academic programs officially granted Level Accreditation and Re-accreditation by the Accrediting Agency of Chartered Colleges and Universities in the Philippines (AACCUP).

The accreditation follows survey visits conducted in the last quarter of 2025, emphasizing the University’s sustained commitment to academic quality and continuous improvement across its colleges and campuses. This accomplishment was made possible through the support of the PUP Quality Assurance Center, which facilitated and assisted the accreditation process for a total of 61 programs surveyed by AACCUP last year.

University officials praised the collective efforts of the program managers, deans, and campus directors whose dedication ensured that programs met rigorous national quality assurance standards. This milestone also reflects PUP’s contribution to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). By strengthening program accreditation, the University promotes inclusive, equitable, and high-quality education in line with SDG 4: Quality Education. The enhancement of academic programs and institutional processes fosters innovation in education and resilient institutional structures, supporting SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure. Furthermore, compliance with national accreditation standards encourages transparency, accountability, and strong governance, advancing SDG 16: Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions.

This achievement underscores PUP’s role as a leading state university committed to excellence, accessibility, and relevance in higher education for the Filipino people.

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CADBE Shines in February 2026 MPLE

Thu, 05 Mar 2026 15:29:00 GMT

Jan Vincent Lanuza, News, Communication Management Office

Graduates of the College of Architecture, Design, and Built Environment (CADBE) once again showcased the University’s excellence in licensure examinations and was recognized as the Top 6 Performing School (with 10 or more examinees and with at least 80% passing percentage) in the February 2026 Master Plumbers Licensure Examination (MPLE).

In the MPLE results released on February 25 by the Professional Regulation Commission (PRC), the PUP CADBE scored an impressive 88.24% passing rate, significantly higher than the National Passing Rate of 61.76%.

CADBE Dean Emilie T. Garcia congratulated all MPLE passers for their accomplishment and dedication. She stated that this achievement reflects the University’s continuous refinement of its curriculum, syllabus, and instructional materials for student success.

“These ongoing improvements, guided by competent faculty members rich in professional experience and advanced training, ensure that instruction remains aligned with industry standards and licensure competencies.” Garcia said.

She added that subjects such as Building Utilities, Building Technology, and Construction Management Specialization provide students with a solid foundational knowledge in plumbing systems and construction processes. Meanwhile, CADBE’s Architectural Internship Program reinforces classroom learning by bridging theory and practice through meaningful exposure to real-world industry experience.

This strong performance in the February 2026 MPLE highlights CADBE’s commitment to producing competent, industry-ready graduates and upholds 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 PUP’s provision of inclusive and accessible quality education.

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1,143 graduates march for Midyear Commencement, celebrating student perseverance

Thu, 05 Mar 2026 09:52:00 GMT

Brent Soriano, News, Communication Management Office

The Sintang Paaralan held its 2026 Mid-Year Commencement Exercises, highlighted by inspiring testimonies from graduates, parents, and even the commencement speaker, who shared reflections on their journey and the challenges. 1,143 graduates from the whole university system marched in the half-day ceremony at the University Gymnasium in the Mabini Campus.

A fitting tribute to Women’s Month, Presiding Judge Dinah Maximo-Uy served as commencement speaker, who exemplified the spirit of a true public servant in the judiciary. In her message, she recounted how her education at the university became a turning point in her life, particularly during a time when financial hardship was an everyday challenge.

“Sulit na sulit ang dose pesos per unit na tuition fee. Ngayon, zero tuition fee or minimal na lang ang tuition fee. Maraming salamat, Sintang Paaralan, dahil isa ako sa mga kabataang salat sa yaman. Ako ay tinanggap mo at hinubog, at aking napagtagumpayan. Dahil sa’yo, naging magaan ang aming pag-aaral,” she said, drawing warm applause from the graduates, families, and university officials. (The twelve pesos per unit tuition fee was really worth it. Now, tuition fee is either free or only minimal. Thank you so much, Sintang Paaralan because I am one of the young people who come from poor families. You accepted me and helped shape me, and I was able to succeed. Because of you, our studies became easier.)

Her testimony reflected the university’s enduring commitment to inclusive and equitable quality education, in line with SDG 4: Quality Education, which seeks to ensure lifelong learning opportunities for all—an effort that PUP has championed even prior to the 2017 enactment of R.A. No. 10931, or the Universal Access to Quality Tertiary Education Act. This law further supports SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities by enabling students from economically disadvantaged backgrounds to pursue higher education without financial barriers.

Among the graduates, Regina Velasco expressed her excitement over finally reaching a milestone she described as a once-in-a-lifetime moment. “Excited ako dahil once in a lifetime ito na nangyari,” she said. (I’m excited because this is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.) “I offer this first to our Lord Jesus Christ; second, to my family, who are always there for me to support and guide me,” she added.

Another graduate, Jose Louise Severo, shared an encouraging message to fellow students who may be facing doubts and difficulties in their academic journey. “To those students na pinanghihinaan ng loob, isipin niyo lang ang mga pangarap niyo. Kapag may ganoong bagay kasi, kapag wala kayong pangarap, hindi magiging matuwid ang dadaanan niyo,” he said. (To those students who are feeling discouraged, just think about your dreams. If you have no dreams at all, you may end up losing your way and not choosing the right path.)

“Ituloy niyo lang ’yan. Dugo’t pawis talaga ’yan at paghihirapan.” (Just keep going. It truly takes blood, sweat, and hardship.)

His message reflected the values of perseverance and personal growth contributing to SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth, as education remains a vital foundation for meaningful employment and national development.

Parents also shared in the celebration, reflecting on years of sacrifice and perseverance. Tatay Armando, the father of one of the graduates, expressed his gratitude to God for guiding his son through the challenges of college life. “Stay humble. Always pray. Tama na tahakin mo ang pangarap mo sa buhay,” he advised his son. (Stay humble. Always pray. It is right you pursue your dreams in life.)

Dr. Lowell Guillen Alfonso, who delivered his valedictory address, reminded the graduates that “this diploma does not certify perfection—it certifies persistence. It tells the story of choosing to try again when it was inconvenient, when it seemed pointless, and even when no one was watching.” It reflects the countless moments when students faced challenges, embraced failure as a lesson, and listened to feedback not as a wound but as a guide. In short, this diploma represents not just what they have achieved but who they have become.

This momentous event emphasized the PUP’s continuing role in nation-building and social mobility, reinforcing its support for the UN SDGs by empowering students through accessible, inclusive, and transformative education.

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3 PUPians join Spring 2026 Exchange Program in Sejong University

Wed, 04 Mar 2026 00:36:00 GMT

Yeisha Agustin, News, Communication Management Office

Selected students, Marie Criz Zaragoza, KC Louise Hugo, and Charles Leurhecs Andres have been sent off to Sejong University in South Korea for the Spring 2026 Student Exchange Program for a journey of learning and exploration, providing international exposure, a global outlook, and broader perspectives beyond the four walls of the classroom.

Chief of International Mobility, Joseph Briana, explained that the university’s internationalization efforts allow PUPians to study abroad, welcome foreign students, and gain valuable academic and cultural experiences. He also emphasized that students are inherently excellent and hardworking, equipping them to adapt, thrive, and fully leverage every opportunity that the program offers.

Students participating in the recent student-exchange program are expected to complete the spring semester starting February until July 5. With Sejong University’s wide range of English-taught courses majoring in Business, Hospitality, and Computer Engineering—students will be able to expand their knowledge, elevating academic growth and career opportunities.

The acceptance of students into Sejong University’s exchange program highlights the academic excellence and global readiness of PUPians. The initiative of PUP’s student exchange program supports the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) especially SDG 4 (Quality Education) by promoting inclusive learning, and SDG 17 (Partnership Goals) by strengthening collaboration across universities. With this partnership, PUP and Sejong University continue to foster student exchanges and shared learning opportunities.

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Student-athletes receive PISO Plus accounts for allowances

Fri, 27 Feb 2026 18:05:00 GMT

Brent Soriano, News, Communication Management Office

Our Sintang Paaralan, in partnership with the Land Bank of the Philippines (LANDBANK), is leveraging the PISO Plus account to streamline the release of allowances, grants, and stipends for our student-athletes. This initiative allows financial support to be credited directly to students’ accounts, reducing delays and minimizing the need for in-person transactions.

For PUP Taekwondo athlete and team captain Zhenny Achivida, this initiative will truly improve access to her benefits while supporting her participation in various competitions. Achivida recalled the difficulties student-athletes faced before the introduction of the LANDBANK PISO Plus.

“Bago pa pumasok ang Piso Account ng Land Bank [of the Philippines] ay through Cashier’s Office lang namin siya tinatanggap at nakalagay pa sa sobre at pipirmahan,” she said. (Before the Piso Account of Land Bank, we receive our allowances from the Cashier’s Office physically, placed in envelopes for our signature).

Student-athletes often had to endure a queue at the Cashier’s Office to claim their stipends and those who returned to their home provinces sometimes missed out on their allowances because they had to be physically present at the university.

With PISO Plus, it addresses such challenges by enabling faster, digital disbursement of allowances, particularly benefiting students who travel frequently for competitions or training. This milestone is part of a larger effort to digitize public services in higher education institutions like PUP, ensuring more efficient and equitable financial support for students.

The said project aligns with the United Nations SDGs. It supports SDG 4 (Quality Education) by helping student-athletes balance academics and sports, SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth) by facilitating timely access to financial assistance, SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure) by promoting digital solutions in public service, and SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities) by ensuring that students from remote or underserved areas can receive their benefits without barriers.

Through this collaboration, PUP and the LBP demonstrate how digital financial services can enhance the welfare and opportunities of Filipino student-athletes, making it easier for them to focus on both their education and sports careers.

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“Layuning makatao” exemplified in new PUP x NCDA partnership

Fri, 27 Feb 2026 12:04:00 GMT

Gicel Roger Salvilla, News, Communication Management Office

The PUP Graduate School and the National Council on Disability Affairs (NCDA) formally strengthened their commitment to inclusivity through the ceremonial signing of a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) on February 25, 2026. The landmark partnership underscores both institutions’ shared vision of embedding disability-inclusive perspectives across higher education, research, and public service.

The ceremony marked a significant milestone in advancing accessible and equitable learning environments for persons with disabilities (PWDs). By institutionalizing this collaboration, PUP and NCDA aim to promote policies, programs, and research initiatives that address barriers to participation and expand opportunities for inclusive development.

_{Photo courtesy of: PUP Graduate School 'Official' Facebook Page.}

Defining Moments from the MOA Signing
The focus of the event was the presentation of the DNAS Tool Project, introduced through a Statement of Purpose and detailed discussion by Dandy C. Victa, Deputy Executive Director of NCDA. The initiative is expected to support data-driven and evidence-based approaches to disability inclusion within academic and policy frameworks.

Leaders from both institutions delivered strong messages of commitment. University President Dr. Manuel M. Muhi emphasized PUP’s enduring mandate to make education accessible to all Filipinos, while NCDA Executive Director Glenda D. Relova reaffirmed the Council’s dedication to strengthening partnerships that uphold the rights and welfare of persons with disabilities.

The event also received full support from key university officials, including Dr. Emanuel C. de Guzman, Vice President for Academic Affairs, and Dr. Elmer G. de Jose, Dean of the Graduate School, alongside other Graduate School leaders. Representatives from NCDA, including project development officers and technical personnel, were likewise present to signify the agency’s strong institutional backing.

_{Photo courtesy of: PUP Graduate School 'Official' Facebook Page.}

Advancing Inclusion Through Collaboration
The MOA signing reflects the PUP Graduate School’s continuing pursuit of its humanitarian mission—“layuning makatao”—and its guiding principle of “karunungan para sa bayan.” More importantly, the partnership brings to life PUP’s core values of Integrity, Accountability, Excellence, Service, and Inclusivity. By advancing disability-inclusive education and research, both institutions uphold integrity in protecting the rights of persons with disabilities, demonstrate accountability through responsive and meaningful programs, pursue excellence via evidence-based initiatives, and strengthen service to marginalized sectors.

At the same time, the initiative contributes to the achievement of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 4 (Quality Education) through inclusive and equitable learning, SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities) by expanding participation of persons with disabilities, and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals) by reinforcing multi-sector collaboration. Through this unified effort, PUP and NCDA reaffirm their shared commitment to building an inclusive future where no one is left behind.

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BSA students claim top berths in 18th NAQDown

Tue, 24 Feb 2026 18:27:00 GMT

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

Fransh Andrei Abad, a 4th-year BS Accountancy (BSA) student at the PUP College of Accountancy and Finance, emerged as the champion of the 18th National Accounting Quiz Showdown (NAQDown). He also received the prestigious Apex Ascendant of South Luzon Order of the Mist Walkers special award.

Meanwhile, Rhea Niduelan, also a 4th-year BSA student, placed 4th runner-up in the competition, which carried the theme, “The Elemental Ascent: A Summit of Mastery,” held at Club Balai Isabel in Talisay, Batangas last February 13, 2026.

The competition featured elimination, semi-final, and final rounds, covering topics from the Certified Public Accountant Licensure Examination (CPALE). Over 200 students participated in the elimination rounds, with the top 20 advancing to the finals.

Reflecting on their preparation, Niduelan emphasized the importance of mindset. “It has to be like, ‘Let’s just try it.’ ’Yung mindset na to always go for it despite feeling not ready,” she explained. She added that the experience was more than just recognition, it reinforced her ability to represent PUP Junior Philippine Institute of Accountants (JPIA) Manila, NCR, and South Luzon.

Abad expressed his gratitude to those who supported him throughout the competition. In a social media post, he wrote, “Thank you to everyone who helped me in so many ways to get here. Ito na ’yung ROI [Return on Investment] natin!” He noted that, despite limited preparation due to academic commitments, the victory felt even more meaningful, having competed against some of the country’s top accountancy students.

Organized by the Philippine Institute of Certified Public Accountants (PICPA), the 18th NAQDown is an annual national inter-local chapter quiz bee coordinated by the National Federation of Junior Philippine Institute of Accountants (NFJPIA). The event aims to promote stewardship and uphold the academic excellence of aspiring JPIA members across the country.

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DBA student named in Asia’s 40 under 40

Tue, 24 Feb 2026 17:06:00 GMT

Jan Vincent Lanuza, News, Communication Management Office

_{Photo Courtesy: TradeFlock}

Jane Rustial Tiongco-Aguirre, a Doctor in Business Administration (DBA) student of the College of Business Administration (CBA), has been recognized as one of Asia’s 40 Under 40 for 2025 by TradeFlock, a regional platform that features young leaders across Asia who are creating meaningful impact in their respective industries and communities.

TradeFlock’s Asia’s 40 Under 40 recognizes emerging leaders under the age of 40 who demonstrate excellence in leadership, innovation, and social or industry impact. Awardees are selected based on professional achievements, leadership influence, and commitment to creating positive change.

Under her leadership as the Country Head of Scholastic Philippines, she has advocated for the advancement of the Philippine education sector by expanding access to educational materials, fostering stronger school communities, and building partnerships with schools, educators, and institutions to develop foundational reading skills and cultivate a culture of learning among children and young people nationwide.

Being named to Asia’s 40 Under 40 reinforces her belief that impactful leadership can be rooted in service. She views the recognition not just as a personal milestone, but as a platform to continue advocating for Philippine education, amplifying the importance of literacy, teacher support, and long-term investment in the country’s learners.

She noted that she pursued the DBA degree to continue teaching, mentoring, and sharing knowledge with her teams, colleagues, and future leaders. She chose PUP for its strong tradition of academic excellence, accessibility, and real-world grounding—qualities that enable her to effectively fulfill her role as Country Head of Scholastic Philippines while advancing her academic growth.

She then added that the expertise of her professors, the diversity of perspectives among her classmates, and the relevance of discussions to Philippine and regional business realities made the program both appealing and enjoyable. This diversity, she said, enriches classroom discussions and broadens her leadership perspective.

CBA Dean and DBA Program Chairperson Dr. Cindy F. Soliman expressed her pride in Tiongco-Aguirre’s accomplishment saying, “This distinguished honor affirms your exemplary leadership, intellectual rigor, and unwavering commitment to excellence, hallmarks of the transformative, ethical leader we strive to cultivate in our Doctor in Business Administration program at our Sintang Paaralan.”

She added “Your achievement reflects not only your outstanding professional brilliance but also your capacity to create meaningful and socially responsible contributions, bringing great honor to our academic community and inspiring fellow scholar leaders to pursue leadership with depth, courage, and purpose.”

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