Polytechnic University of the Philippines

COA Lauds PUP's Three-Year Drive for Senior and PWD Inclusion

Thu, 18 Sep 2025 11:57:00 GMT

Marynelle L. Rosales, News, Research Publication Office

Sintang Paaralan earned consistent praise from the Commission on Audit (COA) for three straight fiscal years (2022–2024) for programs that support Senior Citizens (SCs) and Persons with Disabilities (PWDs), underscoring the university’s strong push for inclusion amid administrative hurdles.

COA reports cited PUP’s compliance with laws protecting SCs and PWDs, noting adherence to Republic Act No. 11639 in 2022 and substantial compliance with Section 36 of Republic Act No. 11936 in 2023.

PUP’s efforts include a 2022 webinar with the Techie Senior Citizens community on seniors’ rights, drawing around 400 participants—evidence of its growing outreach and advocacy.

In 2023, the university expanded programming with seminars and capability-building activities, including PUP Diversity and Inclusion Talks and a Deaf Awareness Seminar, fostering awareness and collaboration across the community.

Accessibility upgrades were also highlighted, including ramps, elevators, designated comfort rooms, and clearer information signage, as well as braille buttons in elevators. PUP also strengthened its official social media presence to broaden access and engagement.

Through its Gender Equity, Diversity, and Social Inclusivity Office (GEDSIO) and wellness activities, such as Pickleball and Zumba for seniors, the university continues to advance inclusion and remains a model for other institutions. This initiative aligns with Sustainable Development Goals 3 (Good Health and Wellbeing), 4 (Quality Education), 10 (Reduced Inequalities), and 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities).

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Bio Students Win First Place in PH Parasitology International Symposium

Wed, 17 Sep 2025 16:15:00 GMT

Franzelle Caeg, News, College of Science

Young researchers and biology students from the Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP) participated in the 5th International Symposium and 95th General Assembly of the Philippine Society of Parasitology (PSP), held on July 1–4, 2025, at the Camp John Hay Convention Center in Baguio City.

The annual conference brought together local and international scientists, educators, researchers, and students to present cutting-edge parasitology studies across various disciplines, anchored on the theme: “Old Dreams, New Visions – Expanding Pathways to Global Health: Opportunity, Collaboration, and Education.”

Biology majors (Microbiology Track) Summer B. Badiola, Chynna Miccah Worth N. Barican, and Franzelle C. Caeg represented PUP as official delegates. Under the mentorship of Professors Jhunel G. Vinarao and John Leonard R. Chan of the College of Science, the trio presented pioneering student-led research highlighting innovation and impact in public health.

The team secured First Place in the Undergraduate Oral Presentation category for their study, “Molecular Characterization and Immunoinformatics Design of a Multi-epitope Peptide Vaccine Targeting the Tetraspanin-1 Protein from Philippine Schistosoma japonicum Isolate.” Presented by Badiola, the research showcased their significant contribution to addressing gaps in vaccine development for schistosomiasis—a neglected tropical disease that continues to affect millions in the Philippines and other endemic regions.

This recognition marks a milestone for PUP, reaffirming the University’s active role in national scientific forums that advance health and parasitology research. It also stands as a testament to the dedication and talent of young Filipino researchers committed to tackling urgent public health challenges through science and innovation.

The success of these young biologists underscores the University’s research thrust of producing innovative and socially responsive studies that address both national and global concerns. Their work not only demonstrates academic excellence but also makes a meaningful contribution to strengthening public health systems.

More than recognition, the research holds profound relevance to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). By advancing vaccine design against schistosomiasis, the project contributes to SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being) and SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure), while reflecting PUP’s broader commitment to inclusive and transformative research.

With this milestone, the Sintang Paaralan once again affirms its vital role in advancing science that serves the people.

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Sustainable Travel Gets Inclusive through Eco-Coco

Wed, 17 Sep 2025 16:12:00 GMT

John Dee Gonos, News, Technology Business Incubation and Development Office (TBIDO)

The Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP) is home to bold and inspiring voices like Keith Centeno—the visionary founder behind Eco-Coco, a sustainable travel platform bridging tourism, community empowerment, and inclusive development.

As one of the promising incubatees under the PUP PYLON Technology Business Incubator (TBI), Keith is redefining what it means to travel with purpose. With their startup, Eco-Coco, they have created more than just a tourism service as they have built a movement. One that champions eco-conscious exploration, uplifts off-the-radar communities, and reimagines tourism as a tool for economic inclusion and cultural preservation.

Eco-Coco is not your typical travel platform. Unlike conventional booking sites, this web-based system works closely with underrepresented local communities, many of whom have limited digital access. Through partnerships with community-based tourism groups, Eco-Coco offers curated, eco-friendly experiences: from sustainable tours, traditional culinary journeys, to intimate cultural immersions. Every booking on the platform directly contributes to local livelihoods, preserves heritage, and ensures that the beauty of the Philippines’ “best-kept secrets” is shared responsibly.

“Travel should not just be about what we take in, it should also be about what we give back,” says Keith. “Eco-Coco is our way of making sure that travel works for the people in communities far from the mainstream tourism hotspots, especially those who have long been left behind by technological innovations.”

As a proud queer student from the College of Tourism, Hospitality, and Transportation Management (CTHTM), Keith’s journey also breaks boundaries in an industry where diversity in leadership is still emerging. Their leadership not only reflects their passion for inclusive tourism but also empowers fellow queer individuals to dream big, lead boldly, and build solutions rooted in empathy and equity. Their presence in both the startup space and the LGBTQ+ community is a testament to the power of visibility. Through Eco-Coco, Keith is building safe spaces not only for travelers and communities but also for queer founders in the tourism and tech sectors.

Through the support of PUP PYLON TBI and TBIDO, Eco-Coco has grown from concept to an emerging enterprise. The startup received technical mentoring, business development guidance, and access to networks and platforms that have helped refine their business model and connect with early adopters and investors.

Keith’s story exemplifies the very mission of university-based incubation: transforming student ideas into market-ready innovations that create social impact, which supports Sustainable Development Goals 4 (Quality Education), 5 (Gender Equality), 10 (Reduced Inequalities), and 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities).

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Report@PUP Complaints Center now open

Wed, 10 Sep 2025 19:47:00 GMT

Jan Vincent Lanuza, News, Communication Management Office

The Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP), in promotion of transparent leadership and improvement of public service, has launched a citizen’s complaint email at report@pup.edu.ph.

During the flag raising ceremony held on September 8, University President Dr. Manuel M. Muhi officially introduced the initiative to the PUP Community, highlighting its purpose of opening communication lines for reports and complaints to the institution to ensure responsive and effective action in enhancing PUP operations.

Modeled after the government’s 8888 Citizens’ Complaint Hotline and aligned with the Ease of Doing Business (EODB) program of the Anti-Red Tape Authority (ARTA), this service is a landmark achievement for the Sintang Paaralan as it becomes the first centralized email complaint desk among universities in the Philippines.

The PUP complaint email caters all types of complaints, such as in academic concerns, inquiries about University processes, grievances regarding inefficient services, and confidential and sensitive cases. It is open to the entire PUP system and all members of the community, with users assured of a response within 72 hours.

The University also plans to expand this initiative by developing a dedicated citizen’s complaint portal at the PUP Smart Interactive Technical Assistant (SINTA).

Through these efforts, PUP continues to streamline its services, eliminate red tape, and uphold accountability as it strives to strengthen its relationship with stakeholders and embody the values of quality management.

Note: For University-related concerns and complaints, please send them at report@pup.edu.ph. All transactions are strictly confidential and comply with the provisions of the Data Privacy Act of 2012. For information regarding PUP services, please visit the Knowledge Base section of PUP SINTA at sinta.pup.edu.ph.

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Book launch at PUP calls for deeper appreciation of PH history

Wed, 10 Sep 2025 19:44:00 GMT

Jan Vincent Lanuza, News, Communication Management Office

The Polytechnic University of the Philippines - College of Social Sciences and Development (PUP-CSSD), together with the Samahan ng mga Mag-aaral ng Kasaysayan (SMK), the official student organization of the Department of History, in collaboration with the Constantino Foundation, launched the 50th Anniversary edition of “The Philippines: A Past Revisited” at the Bulwagang Balagtas, PUP Sta. Mesa Campus, on September 5.

Renato Redentor “Red” Constantino, Managing Director at Constantino Foundation and grandson of the book’s authors, renowned Filipino historians Renato R. Constantino Sr. and Letizia R. Constantino hopes that this event generates a huge love of history to the participants.

“Mahalin natin ang kasaysayan para matuklasan natin kung bakit ganito ang mga problema natin sa kasalukuyan at kapag natuklas natin, makita natin ang sarili natin sa solusyon para sa kinabukasan. Marami sa mga problema natin, may pinagmulan iyan. Alamin natin.” Constantino told the audience.

(Let us love history so we can discover why we face the problems we have today. And when we uncover these, we will see ourselves as part of the solution for the future. Many of our problems have roots—we must know them.)

In an interview, Constantino stressed that learning and understanding the past is essential to better grasp the present and to help Filipinos move forward, noting that “Philippine history intersects with a lot of contemporary problems.”

Alongside PUP’s Assoc. Prof. Jacinto R. Valila and Inst. Gregorio R. Caliguia III, as well as Assoc. Prof. Bernard M. Karganilla of UP Diliman, the speakers shared individual insights about the book, emphasizing the need for participants to always probe deeper into history to better understand the root cause of current social issues.

“Ganiyan ang kasaysayan. Basahin mo nang maigi at basahin mo ulit, mas marami pa kayong matutuklasan,” Constantino added.

(That’s how history is. Read it carefully and then read it again—you will always discover more.)

An alumnus of the Sintang Paaralan, he noted that this event was a small part of what he hopes to be a long-term effort towards to give back to the University.

“Sa akin ito ang pinakamahalagang eskwela sa buong bansa and this is the University that really matters. Tungkulin ko ay hindi unique sa akin, tungkulin dapat ito ng lahat ng alumni ng PUP. This is how the nation gets better. When PUP gets better, then it has a lot to teach the country as well.”

(For me, this is the most important school in the whole country, and this is the University that really matters. My duty is not unique to me—it should be the duty of all PUP alumni. This is how the nation gets better. When PUP gets better, it has a lot to teach the country as well.)

The event was part of the Department’s annual Research Colloquium, held from September 5 to 6, where History students and faculty presented and discussed their research to foster knowledge-sharing and critical feedback.

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

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"Very Satisfactory": DBM's Budget ng Bayan Monitor commends PUP's performance

Thu, 28 Aug 2025 14:56:00 GMT

Sonny M. Versoza, News, Communication Management Office

The Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP) achieved a commendable 4.70 (Very Satisfactory) rating in the “Budget ng Bayan Monitor,” the Department of Budget and Management’s (DBM) 2024 Agency Performance Review (APR) report. The results were unveiled on August 20, 2025, at DBM’s Boncodin Hall during a presentation event.

PUP’s 4.70 (Very Satisfactory) score reflects a strong performance under DBM’s enhanced Agency Performance Review (APR) framework covering financial, physical, and reporting metrics, and underscores its commitment to operational excellence. The report particularly highlighted that “PUP demonstrated commendable physical performance,” underscoring the university’s efficient project implementation and delivery of physical outputs.

Looking forward, the report noted that PUP has committed to implementing reforms under its University Development Plan (UDP) 2024–2028, specifically in Strategic Goal 8: Judicious and Ethical Stewardship of Physical and Financial Resources. Among the prioritized initiatives cited in the report are the introduction of mobile wallets and government purchase cards, annual conduct of a supplier’s forum, and enhancement of its existing financial management portal. These efforts are designed to strengthen transparency, efficiency, and accountability in the university’s resource management.

The DBM report also cited significant programs and initiatives of the university under the UDP 2024–2028 such as the Higher Education Program which includes the implementation of the Tulong Dunong Program benefiting 528 grantees, the Tatak PUP Seal of Academic Excellence for licensure examination readiness, and Enrollment to Employment initiatives such as job fairs and industry partnerships.

Meanwhile, for the Advanced Education Program, the University pursued faculty development through Enriching Novel Approaches for Responsive Instruction and Continuing Holistic Development, and reinforced quality assurance via the Tatak PUP Seal of Academic Excellence for accreditation and program monitoring.

PUP’s flagship initiatives under its Research Education Program include Innovate 360° for science and technology research competitions, Galing Pambansang Sinta on AI-powered research, SalikSinta for sustainable community development, and UTAK for technology and knowledge utilization.

PUP’s performance also aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 16 (Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions), as reflected in the University’s enhanced financial stewardship and adoption of ethical processes. It likewise supports SDG17 (Partnerships for the Goals) through supplier engagement and digital modernization initiatives that establish collaboration and efficiency.

As part of the Budget ng Bayan Monitor, PUP’s score helps promote transparency and accountability in public higher education. The university’s proposed reforms signal continued progress toward more responsible and impactful governance.

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PUP welcomes International Scholars in Student Orientation Program

Wed, 20 Aug 2025 15:13:00 GMT

Brent Soriano, News, Communication Management Office

On August 15, the Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP) held its International Student Orientation Program, “Sama-Sama: Learning Filipino Language and Culture,” at the Accenture Room, PUP Sta. Mesa Campus.

A total of 46 international students officially enrolled at the university for this academic year, reflecting the continued growth of Sintang Paaralan’s global presence. The orientation offered participants a comprehensive overview of the university’s academic policies, enrollment procedures, visa processing and renewal, among others.

Dr. Jinky De Jesus-Reyes, Chief of the Exchange and Study Program under the Office of International Affairs (OIA), underscored the importance of the event, stating: “The ultimate goal of this orientation is for our international students to become familiar with our internal processes and adapt smoothly to campus life.” She further added: “We also want them to feel confident engaging in conversations with their professors and university personnel as they continue their academic journey with us.”

In doing so, the university reaffirms its commitment to providing a welcoming and inclusive academic environment for learners from around the world. Through this initiative, PUP not only strengthens its international presence and attracts more international students, but also actively contributes to the Sustainable Development Goals of Quality Education (SDG 4) and Reduced Inequalities (SDG 10).

Thus, this initiative reflects the vision of PUP education that is globally connected, socially responsible, and accessible to all.

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OVPRED, PIDS Host 10th SERP-P Forum on Rethinking Education Governance Through Research

Wed, 13 Aug 2025 16:05:00 GMT

Gicel Roger Salvilla, News, Communication Management Office

The Philippine Institute for Development Studies (PIDS), in partnership with the Office of the Vice President for Research, Extension, and Development (OVPRED), successfully hosted the 10th Socio-Economic Research Portal for the Philippines (SERP-P) Knowledge-Sharing Forum on August 5. The event took place at Bulwagang Bonifacio, NALLRC Building, PUP Sta. Mesa, Manila, and was also streamed via Zoom and Facebook Live.

Titled “Rethinking Education Governance Through Research,” the forum gathered educators, researchers, and policymakers to explore how evidence-based studies can strengthen the country’s education governance. The program opened with a warm welcome from PIDS President Dr. Philip Arnold P. Tuano, followed by a message from PUP President Dr. Manuel M. Muhi.

The forum featured three insightful presentations: PIDS’ Jenard D. Berroya discussed “Mapping Excellence in Teacher Education: The Role of Centers of Excellence in Teacher Quality”; Dr. Diosdado M. San Antonio of SEAMEO-INNOTECH shared “Learning-Focused and Future-Oriented School-Based Management”; and Dr. Jose Reuben Q. Alagaran II, Dean of the PUP College of Communication, presented “From Campuses to Communities: Institutionalizing Advocacy Hubs for Sustainable Impact.”

After the presentations, Dr. Ricky R. Rosales, Associate Professor at PUP, moderated the panel discussion and Q&A session. The conversation explored key education policies, particularly the roles of Centers of Excellence (COEs) and Centers of Development (CODs) in Teacher Education Institutions (TEIs) across the Philippines. Discussions also underscored the importance of establishing Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) Hubs in universities and increasing budget allocations for research and extension projects at all educational levels.

Participants, both onsite and online, actively exchanged insights, offering diverse perspectives and collaborative solutions for reimagining the future of Philippine education. The forum reaffirmed the shared commitment of PIDS and PUP to advance quality education through research-driven policies and practices. Anchored on PUP’s core value of Passion for Learning and Innovation, the event not only strengthened the culture of knowledge exchange but also supported the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals — particularly SDG 4: Quality Education and SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals — by fostering collaboration and innovation in education governance.

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UCCA, Otsuka Solar PH Ink Partnership for CaraBand

Tue, 12 Aug 2025 17:22:00 GMT

Ron Emil Sigua, News, University Center for Culture and the Arts

The Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP), through the University Center for Culture and the Arts (UCCA), formally entered into a cultural partnership with Otsuka Solar PH during a virtual Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) signing ceremony held on July 24, 2025.

The partnership aims to foster artistic collaboration, talent development, and international engagement through the upcoming University CaraBand project.

Present at the signing were PUP President Dr. Manuel M. Muhi, Vice President for Student Affairs and Services Dr. Tomas Testor, UCCA Director Bely Ygot, UCCA Music Chief Hemmady Mora, and UCCA Dance and Drama Chief Alyssa Resurreccion. Representing Otsuka Solar PH were its President and official signatory, Ken Saito, along with his team.

The highlight of the collaboration is the CaraBand, a battle of the bands set for September, which will provide PUP student bands a platform to showcase their musical talent. Pocari Sweat, a product under Otsuka, will serve as the event’s official hydration partner.

The winning PUP band will advance to the Inter-University CaraBand competition. The overall champion will receive seven months of mentorship from a professional band coach or artist, an introduction to a music label, and an all-expense-paid concert experience in Japan in 2026.

President Muhi expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership, reaffirming PUP’s commitment to producing well-rounded students through meaningful cultural engagements. This collaboration between UCCA and Otsuka Solar PH underscores the power of music to unite communities and promote artistic excellence beyond borders.

This initiative supports SDG 4: Quality Education, SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth, and SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals by empowering student talent, creating opportunities in the creative industries, and establishing global collaboration.

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"Usap Tayo, Bayan Muna" Forum Promotes Media and Information Literacy Among PUP Students

Mon, 11 Aug 2025 11:36:00 GMT

Sonny M. Versoza, News, Communication Management Office

In an effort to promote media and information literacy among young Filipinos, the Presidential Communications Office (PCO) of the Office of the President held a forum titled “Usap Tayo, Bayan Muna” on August 1, 2025, at the Bulwagang Balagtas, Ninoy Aquino Library and Learning Resources Center, Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP) A. Mabini Campus.

The event featured Undersecretary Atty. Claire Castro of the PCO as the guest speaker, engaging students from the PUP Laboratory High School (LHS) and Senior High School (SHS) in a timely and relevant discussion on the importance of responsible media consumption in the age of widespread disinformation. The initiative seeks to arm the youth with critical thinking skills, fact-checking tools, and civic awareness to counter the rapid spread of fake news and misleading narratives.

“Kayong mga kabataan ang may kapangyarihan. Ang boses ninyo, kapag nagsama-sama kayo para sa katotohanan, ay kayang labanan ang fake news. Kayo ang may power na i-shape ang kinabukasan ng bansa,” said Usec. Castro as she emphasized the role of young citizens in upholding truth and shaping the future of the nation. (The youth have the power. Your voices, united in the pursuit of truth, can stand against fake news. You have the power to shape the future of our nation.)

One of the central topics addressed during the forum was the spread of disinformation surrounding the West Philippine Sea dispute, which was presented as a case study on how media narratives can shape public perception and impact national interest.

In attendance were Vice President for Research, Extension and Development Dr. Anna Ruby P. Gapasin, PUP Senior High School Principal Assoc. Prof. Michelle Sotto, PUP Laboratory High School Principal Assoc. Prof. Christine A. Del Rosario, and other LHS and SHS officials, demonstrating the University’s strong commitment to supporting national efforts in fostering informed and empowered citizenship among students.

Grounded in the values of truth, civic responsibility, and patriotism, “Usap Tayo, Bayan Muna” serves as a call to action for the Filipino youth to be vigilant, discerning, and proactive in the digital landscape. This advocacy aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 4 (Quality Education), by promoting media literacy and lifelong learning, and SDG 16 (Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions), by promoting active citizenship and stronger democracies through access to reliable information.

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