Polytechnic University of the Philippines

Bayanihan sa Kalusugan: PUP, UNILAB Join Forces for Free Annual Physical Exam for Employees

Fri, 10 Oct 2025 15:12:00 GMT

Heildenberg Dimarucot, News, Communication Management Office

In a two-day medical mission that embodied the true spirit of Bayanihan, the Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP), through its Medical Services Department, partnered with United Laboratories, Inc. (UNILAB) to provide free annual physical examinations to over 500 employees, administrators, staff, security personnel, and student-athletes.

The initiative, part of UNILAB’s 80th anniversary celebration and corporate social responsibility (CSR) program, marked the pharmaceutical company’s first collaboration with a state university for a large-scale holistic health mission. The event offered comprehensive healthcare services, including screening and assessment, laboratory testing, medical consultations, and medicine compliance guidance, ensuring that each participant received a complete and professional evaluation.

Participants saved an estimated ?5,000 worth of medical expenses through the free services, making the program not just a health initiative but a significant act of economic relief for PUP’s workforce. For many employees, the convenience of having such services within the campus meant they no longer needed to take time off work to access quality medical care.

“We are very happy that the University exerts its effort to provide comprehensive medical services for employees like us. We no longer need to file a leave just to get a medical laboratory — it’s already here, accessible and free,” shared one participant.

PUP’s Medical Services Department emphasized that the project reflects its commitment to the health and well-being of the university community, highlighting that accessible and preventive healthcare is vital to sustaining productivity and morale.

“In order to serve better, we must be in our optimum condition — free of any kind of disease. A sound mind must also have a well-nourished body. This must complement each other,” Dr. Liza Yanes, Head of the PUP Medical Services Department.

The collaboration between PUP and UNILAB also reinforces broader national goals under Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 3: Good Health and Well-being, promoting preventive healthcare and workplace wellness. With increasing health risks due to stress and sedentary work patterns, such partnerships between educational institutions and private organizations serve as vital models for inclusive and sustainable healthcare access in the country.

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Swiss visit brings new insights on polytechnic learning in PUP

Wed, 08 Oct 2025 11:38:00 GMT

Felicitas Trinidad, News, Office of International Affairs

The Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP) reaffirmed its commitment to global academic collaboration and vocational education advancement through its participation in the international training program “Skills in Switzerland – Exploring Apprenticeship Excellence” organized and funded by the Swiss Federal University for Vocational Education and Training (SFUVET). The training was held from September 15–19, 2025, in Lausanne and Bern, Switzerland.

Representing PUP were Engr. Ramir M. Cruz, Dean of the Institute of Technology; Engr. Frescian C. Ruiz, Chairperson of the Department of Computer and Electronics Engineering Technology; and Asst. Prof. Felicitas C. Trinidad, Director of the Office of International Affairs. They joined global participants from Kwantlen Polytechnic University (Canada), Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology University (Australia), as well as vocational institutions from Albania, Norway, and El Salvador (Swisscontact).

Highlights of the Training
The week-long program immersed participants in Switzerland’s world-class Vocational Education and Training (VET) system through institutional visits and knowledge exchanges. The delegation gained insights from SFUVET’s dual-track learning model, explored applied business and service innovation practices at the EHL Hospitality Business School, and observed advanced engineering integration at Bobst in Mex.

They also experienced specialized training in watchmaking and precision engineering at the École Technique Vallée de Joux, collaborative construction training at the École de la Construction, and observed the prestigious SwissSkills 2025 competition that showcased excellence in technical professions. The training concluded with discussions at the gibb Berufsfachschule Bern, where participants learned about competency-based education models that directly resonate with PUP’s efforts to update curricula, strengthen industry linkages, and promote applied innovation in engineering and technology.

Strengthening PUP’s Internationalization and Technical Education
Through this training, PUP gained valuable insights to further embed industry-responsive curricula, establish apprenticeship and dual-learning models with partner industries, promote innovation-driven skills competitions, and enhance faculty and student mobility through international cooperation.

Sustaining Cooperation with SFUVET
PUP and SFUVET have committed to deepening their partnership with faculty mobility programs beginning in 2026, alongside possible collaborative research, student mobility, and capacity-building initiatives. These efforts position PUP as a leader in applied research and technical education in the Philippines, equipping graduates with competencies to thrive in the global workforce. This collaboration, supported by Marina Grolimund, Advisor for International Relations at SFUVET, reflects the University’s dedication to fostering excellence in vocational and professional education.

The PUP-SFUVET partnership strongly aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly SDG 4: Quality Education, by advancing equitable, relevant, and future-ready learning opportunities; SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth, by preparing students with employable skills and industry-aligned training; and SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals, through international collaboration that drives innovation and knowledge exchange. By building global networks and embedding best practices into its programs, PUP continues to champion education that empowers individuals and supports sustainable national development.

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YECE 2025: Stories of grit, service to the nation, and commitment to excellence

Wed, 08 Oct 2025 11:37:00 GMT

Brent Soriano, News, Communication Management Office

Four more clusters march as the Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP) held its Year-end Commencement Exercises on September 18–19, 2025 at the PUP Gymnasium, celebrating the achievements of graduates across various colleges and institutes.

On September 18, the ceremonies honored graduates from the College of Architecture, Design, and the Built Environment (CADBE) and the College of Engineering (CE) under Cluster 5. Cluster 6 followed, featuring graduates from the College of Tourism, Hospitality, and Transportation Management (CTHTM) and the Institute of Technology (ITech).

On September 19, attention shifted to Cluster 7, featuring graduates from the College of Political Science and Public Administration (CPSPA) and the College of Social Sciences and Development (CSSD). The ceremonies concluded with Cluster 8, which brought together graduates from the College of Human Kinetics (CHK) and the College of Education (COED).

Honoring Values and Service
The ceremonies were marked by inspirational messages from distinguished guests, each emphasizing values that should guide the graduates in their next journeys.

Ronald Laurel, an advocate for green technologies and current private sector regent of the PUP Board of Regents, reminded the graduates of the importance of gratitude and family. He stressed that true PUPians must carry with them a strong work ethic, trainability, a humble mindset, and team-oriented values. Laurel also urged them to keep “a heart that serves everyone and the nation.”

Echoing the values of resilience, Dr. Lilibeth Aragon of Lyceum of the Philippines University highlighted the enduring strength of the PUP spirit. “We may come from different times, but we are bound by the same fighting spirit. The same stubborn hope, the same belief that no obstacle is too great when we carry with us the values of Sintang Paaralan,” she said.

This call to perseverance was complemented by Hon. Lord Arnel “LA” Ruanto, municipal mayor of Infanta, Quezon, who reminded graduates that blessings are meant to be shared. “Ang pagiging pinagpala ay hindi lamang para angkinin, higit sa lahat ito ay para ibahagi, tulad ng ilaw na nagbibigay-liwanag sa kapwa, sa kabataan, at sa buong bayan,” he remarked. (Being blessed is not only for one’s own claim, but more importantly, it is for sharing — like a light that gives brightness to others, to the youth, and to the whole community)

Laurel, Aragon, and Ruanto are all notable alumni of the Sintang Paaralan. Regent Laurel is a proud engineering graduate, while Dean Aragon comes from the tourism program and business administration graduate studies cohort of the University. Mayor Ruanto completed an Industrial and Organization Psychology degree from PUP.

Meanwhile, Sec. Jose Francisco “Kiko” B. Benitez, TESDA director-general, tied these values to education and nation-building. He emphasized that knowledge should not remain theoretical but must be applied in meaningful ways. “Knowledge should extend beyond the head, transform into action through the heart and hands, and be guided by passion in service of the people,” he said.

Lessons from the Valedictorians
The valedictory addresses of outstanding graduates captured the spirit of determination, hope, and reflection that defined this year’s commencement exercises.

For Yi Man Eillen Chan, BS Electronics Engineering, success means embracing both triumphs and setbacks. In her speech, she introduced an acronym inspired by the word “engineer,” encouraging young professionals to live by it: “E stands for Embrace failure. N for Never settle. G for Good things take time. And R for Relax because even amid striving, we must remember to breathe.” Chan reminded her fellow graduates that setbacks are part of the journey and that perseverance, coupled with balance, is key to sustainable growth.

Jeryhk Danielle Dar Juan, BS Tourism Management, spoke about the courage needed to face uncertainties after graduation. “Behind fear is power and that power is within us,” he declared. He went on to encourage his peers to believe in their capacity to overcome, saying, “We have the power to rise and to journey.” His words called on graduates to see fear not as a hindrance but as a catalyst for empowerment and self-discovery.

Meanwhile, Neil Jayvee G. Del Rosario of BS Psychology delivered a sobering yet profound reminder on the true limits of resilience. “Resilience teaches us to adapt and to survive,” he reflected. “But resilience should not be mistaken as an endless expectation.” The message underscored the importance of balance, reminding graduates that while resilience is essential in overcoming life’s challenges, it should not come at the cost of one’s well-being. He cautioned that the pressure of constant endurance must be met with self-care and compassion, reminding them that resilience should not come at the cost of exhaustion.

Alliah Faulin Bondoc, a BS Physical Education graduate and UNIFAST Academic Excellence Awardee (given only to the graduating student who earned the highest GPA in the university), emphasized the enduring importance of physical education in the college curriculum. Bondoc shared that beyond physical fitness, “PE teaches us discipline, confidence, and teamwork.” Indeed, these are qualities that students carry into both their academic journey and future careers. She also expressed her hope that physical education will continue to be present in all schools, underscoring its role in shaping well-rounded individuals.

On Pursuing Advanced Studies
Dr. Ethel Agnes Pascua-Valenzuela, Chair of the PUP Board of Regents and Commissioner of the Commission on Higher Education (CHED), graced the Commencement Exercises of the College of Human Kinetics (CHK) and the College of Education (COED). She led in recognizing the UNIFAST Academic Excellence Awardee and also delivered congratulatory remarks to the graduates.

In her address, she noted the value of lifelong learning, encouraging future educators and professionals to pursue advanced studies to remain relevant in a rapidly changing global landscape. “The world needs proactive thinkers. PUP graduates are truly proactive thinkers,” she affirmed, recognizing the university’s vital role in shaping graduates who are both competent and visionary. She further emphasized that knowledge knows no bounds, leaving graduates with both a challenge and an inspiration to continue expanding their horizons through higher learning.

PUP Affirms Commitment to SDGs
The commencement speeches reflected how the Sintang Paaralan resonates with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Calls for gratitude, humility, and service highlighted the importance of peace, justice, and strong institutions (SDG 16), while reminders of resilience and hope emphasized the value of quality education (SDG 4). On the other hand, messages on sharing blessings are aligned with building sustainable communities (SDG 11) and insights on practical knowledge and technical-vocational skills supported industry, innovation, and infrastructure (SDG 9). Altogether, the speeches affirmed that PUP’s mission is not only to produce graduates of competence and integrity but also to nurture nation-building individuals, who will potentially contribute to sustainable development.

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Psych GS Program leads Family Strengthening ToT in Zamboanga

Tue, 30 Sep 2025 14:19:00 GMT

Dr. Geraldine F. Santos, Dr. Aimee Rosa R. Manda, News, PUP Graduate School

Dr. Aimee Rosa R. Manda and Dr. Geraldine F. Santos, chairpersons of the PhD and Master of Psychology programs at the Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP), respectively, led a pivotal Training of Trainers (ToT) for the FAMILY United Programme from September 9 to 11, 2025. Their roles as lead trainers underscore PUP’s significant contribution to national community development and evidence-based family interventions.

The event, spearheaded by the Department of Health (DOH) and the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), equipped a new cohort of professionals to deliver the FAMILY United Programme—an initiative designed to strengthen parenting and family dynamics in low- and middle-income communities.

Through expert facilitation, Dr. Manda and Dr. Santos guided participants in mastering practical skills to engage both caregivers and children in interactive, participatory learning sessions. Their leadership was instrumental in preparing attendees to become effective advocates and facilitators within their own communities.

The training yielded significant, tangible outcomes:

Establishing a Facilitator Network: A new pool of certified trainers is now prepared to roll out the program at the grassroots level.
Enhancing Professional Competence: Participants strengthened their capabilities in delivering evidence-based, family-centered interventions.
Strengthening Collaboration: The event fostered stronger partnerships among health professionals, educators, and government agencies, creating a unified front for family support.

This initiative marks a key milestone in PUP’s mission to extend its expertise beyond the classroom and directly impact community well-being across the Philippines.

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PUP Receives the Prestigious Philippine Quality Award

Mon, 29 Sep 2025 17:26:00 GMT

Heildenberg Dimarucot, News, Communication Management Office

In a resounding affirmation of its steadfast commitment to organizational excellence, the Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP) has proudly achieved the Level 2 award of the Philippine Quality Award (PQA). This prestigious “Recognition for Proficiency in Quality Management” is not merely an accolade; it’s a testament to PUP’s significant strides in building and refining sound, systematic processes that have propelled it to the forefront of Philippine higher education. The PQA, the country’s highest honor for organizational performance, is modeled after the Malcolm Baldrige National Quality Award of the United States. It assesses institutions on a four-level framework: Level 1 (Commitment to Quality Management), Level 2 (Proficiency in Quality Management), Level 3 (Mastery in Quality Management), and Level 4 (The Philippine Quality Award for Performance Excellence). PUP’s achievement of Level 2 places it among a select group of organizations that have demonstrated sound, well-deployed processes across all facets of their operations.

A Foundation of Proven Excellence
PUP’s edge in securing the award stemmed from a holistic approach with demonstrable outcomes. Academically, the university’s quality assurance mechanisms have yielded a dramatic surge in licensure exam topnotchers, leaping from three in 2021 to 28 in 2023. Operationally, a commitment to innovation led to the creation of the revolutionary One-Stop-Shop system, which drastically reduced student registration time from 20 days to just one.

This efficiency is underpinned by a robust ICT modernization, including the eQAR system for real-time performance tracking. Beyond its walls, PUP’s profound societal impact through initiatives like the “Education-on-Wheels” program, coupled with impeccable ethical governance evidenced by a 99% utilization of its 2023 budget, solidified its standing. The university’s strategic investment in human capital through systematic training and performance management further cemented the foundation for this achievement.

The Roadmap to Mastery: A Pathway for Growth
While celebrating this milestone, the PUP administration is already charting its course toward the pinnacle of Level 3, “Mastery in Quality Management.” The detailed PQA evaluation report provided a clear roadmap, identifying key areas for refinement. The primary opportunity lies in strengthening the cycles of systematic review and evaluation. While PUP’s processes are proficient, the next step is to institutionalize rigorous, evidence-based assessments of their effectiveness to ensure continuous adaptation and improvement.

Furthermore, achieving mastery will require enhancing data completeness and comparative analysis. This involves presenting a more comprehensive set of metrics — from workforce climate statistics to market performance indicators—and benchmarking PUP’s stellar results against similar institutions to fully contextualize its performance. Finally, the university aims to create greater clarity in linking its long-term University Development Plan to short-term action plans, ensuring every operational activity demonstrably contributes to strategic goals. PQA’s recommendations are positioned not as criticisms but as strategic opportunities for growth, further strengthening PUP’s robust systems and advancing them toward a model of sustained excellence.

This milestone is more than an institutional triumph — it is a national recognition of PUP’s culture of quality and excellence, standing as a beacon of resilience and progress in Philippine higher education. As the university continues to honor its motto, “Mula Sa ’Yo, Para Sa Bayan,” the Philippine Quality Award Level 2 recognition becomes both a legacy of its past and a promise for the future: a pledge to uphold excellence in service, guided by the principles of accountability, transparency, and people-centered development.

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First batch of Education on Wheels graduates earn degrees in Office Administration

Sat, 20 Sep 2025 16:38:00 GMT

Jan Vincent Lanuza, News, Communication Management Office

The Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP) marked a groundbreaking achievement in the 2025 Year End Commencement Exercises as the first batch of Education on Wheels (EOW) students from Smokey Mountain, Tondo, Manila received their diplomas.

During the undergraduate commencement rites of the PUP Open University System on September 20, fifty-one (51) Education on Wheels (EOW) students enrolled in the Bachelor of Science in Office Administration (BSOA) program marched after four years of learning in the EOW mobile classroom.

Commencement speaker Milalin Javellana, Program Director of the Australia Awards and Alumni Engagement Program – Philippines and one of the main benefactors of the EOW advocacy project through the Australian Awards Alumni Grant Scheme, emphasized the values that the Iskolar ng Bayan have gained throughout their studies.

“Dear graduates, the knowledge [and] the wisdom that you have gained, is not just the modules and the lessons that you have finished, or the exams that you have passed, it is the discipline, the sacrifice, and the perseverance,” Javellana said.

She further urged the graduates to embrace the advantages provided by innovation and technology to foster learning and development—with a condition to use it properly and ethically.

The EOW graduates expressed gratitude for the University’s program, which gave them the opportunity to believe that finishing college is possible. One of them, Norie Ann T. Nicole, shared that simply graduating was already an overwhelming experience.

“Hindi hadlang ang kahirapan, parang ito ang magiging sandata mo. Kahit nahihirapan ka, i-push mo lang lalo na at may mga sumusuporta sa iyo,” added Danica Legaspi, an EOW graduate who managed to complete her studies while also fulfilling her responsibilities as a mother.

(Poverty is not a hindrance; in fact, it can be your weapon. Even if things are difficult, just keep pushing forward—especially since there are people supporting you.)

For John Andrew V. Dela Cruz, the achievement serves as a call to give back and help more Filipinos attain quality and accessible education through EOW. He shared, “katulad na lang din ng Education on Wheels na sila ang pumunta sa amin sa Tondo para bigyan kami ng aral, ganoon din ang gagawin ko sa mga kabataan.”

(Just like Education on Wheels, which came to us in Tondo to give us lessons, I will also do the same for the youth.)

The success of EOW highlights PUP’s commitment to providing affordable tertiary education to Filipinos and empowering them to rise above poverty. This initiative aligns with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goal 4: ensuring inclusive and equitable quality education and promoting lifelong learning opportunities for all.

Continuous search for EOW potential partners
Education on Wheels (EOW) program through the Communication Management Office (CMO), is continuously searching for potential partners that can help fulfill the dreams of aspiring learners to finish a four-year degree in PUP.

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

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The Unstoppable Para-Swimmer

Sat, 20 Sep 2025 12:13:00 GMT

Heildenberg Dimarucot, News, Communication Management Office

The water isn’t just a medium for Justine Oliveros; it is a sanctuary of pure, unburdened freedom. In the pool, the weight of the world dissolves, replaced by the rhythmic surge of his powerful strokes and the unwavering determination in his eyes. A 19-year-old from the scenic town of Cavinti in Laguna, and now a Bachelor of Physical Education student at Sintang Paaralan, Justine’s journey to becoming an acclaimed para-swimmer is a testament to a spirit that refuses to be defined by limits.

The youngest of nine siblings, Justine’s connection to water humbly began in his seventh grade. At first, swimming was nothing more than recreation—a survival skill learned with friends and family. He found joy in mastering each new technique and took pride in the effort it required. Then came the pivotal moment: a coach recognized the spark of his potential beneath the surface and invited him to try para-swimming—not just as an activity, but as a path toward competition. Justine embraced the challenge wholeheartedly. He didn’t just participate; he fell deeply in love with the sport. Every training session became a sacred commitment, a chance to push harder, swim faster, and grow stronger. Day after day, without complaint, he gave nothing less than his best.

Perseverance became his anchor. Born with one leg and incomplete fingers, Justine never allowed his disability to dictate his future. He built his philosophy on an unwavering belief: train hard, follow the plan diligently, commit with focus, and anything is possible. The path was not without hardship. Mockery and doubt from others could have broken his spirit, but instead, Justine drew strength from an unshakable support system—friends and family whose faith in him became both his armour and his fuel.

From casual strokes in a Laguna pool, Justine’s passion carried him to competitions beyond his hometown. What once sparked ridicule has transformed into victories that silence doubt. Medals and awards now stand as symbols of more than athletic skill; they embody his unbreakable will, relentless determination, and tireless work ethic. For Justine, para-swimming is not just a sport—it is joy, purpose, and proof that disability can never drown a dream.

A para-swimmer moves through the water—and through life—with a powerful message etched in every stroke: barriers are often illusions. With the right attitude to see possibilities, a determined mind that refuses to quit, and a grateful heart that draws strength from love, one can move forward against any current. In the pool and beyond, Justine Oliveros shows that when these forces converge, the rewards, like the finish line, are always within reach. He is not merely swimming races; he is charting a course of pure, unstoppable inspiration.

Justine’s journey in the pool is more than a personal triumph—it is a living blueprint for a more inclusive and equitable world. His story illustrates that the Sustainable Development Goals are not isolated targets but interconnected pillars of human progress. By fostering Good Health and Well-Being (SDG 3) through the discipline of sport, he also advances Quality Education (SDG 4), proving that equitable learning environments are the foundation of talent and leadership. Together, these achievements serve as powerful tools for Reducing Inequalities (SDG 10), transforming perceptions through participation and breaking down systemic barriers with every medal won.

Justine’s legacy, therefore, is measured not only in records but also in the enduring idea that a truly healthy, educated, and just society is one where every individual is given the opportunity to thrive.

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Filipino Researchers Make First-Ever Discovery of Potato Pathogen in the Philippines

Sat, 20 Sep 2025 09:22:00 GMT

Jomar John Isidoro, News, College of Science

Filipino researchers, led by “Balik Scientist” Dr. Christian Joseph Cumagun, achieved a significant breakthrough for the nation’s agricultural sector. For the first time, the pathogen Geotrichum candidum has been officially detected in the Philippines, appearing in local potato crops. This discovery also serves as a crucial early warning for the country’s potato industry, enabling timely preventive measures.

The finding is part of the Department of Science and Technology–PCAARRD’s “Balik Scientist” program, which brought Cumagun, a postdoctoral research scientist from the University of Idaho to the Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP).

Morphological features of the Geotrichum sp. isolate causing rubbery rot: The left panel shows a mature white, powdery to velvety colony with a pale-yellow reverse. The right panels depict hyaline, septate hyphae fragmenting into rectangular to cylindrical arthroconidia (scale bar = 4 µm).

During his visit, Cumagun provided intensive hands-on training to PUP researchers on isolating and characterizing plant pathogens. The initiative, led by the College of Science Dean Dr. Lourdes Alvarez, aimed to strengthen local research capacity to address emerging agricultural challenges. This training led to the breakthrough when a team led by Jomar John Isidoro successfully isolated G. candidum from potato samples—its first official record in the country.

“This finding is a huge step forward for our agricultural research,” said Isidoro. “Dr. Cumagun’s guidance not only gave us the scientific tools to make this discovery but also the confidence to address pressing agricultural issues.” Fellow researcher Jomarie S. Adea echoed the sentiment, calling the mentorship invaluable and expressing gratitude for the opportunity to present their work to the scientific community.

The research was presented at the Philippine Phytopathological Society’s 57th Anniversary and Annual Scientific Conference, where it drew significant interest. Experts say the early identification of G. candidum will enable the development of targeted management strategies to protect potato crops, underscoring the value of the “Balik Scientist” program in bringing home world-class expertise to fortify the country’s food security.

Therefore, the Sintang Paaralan reaffirms its commitment to nation-building by advancing research and innovation aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). From safeguarding food security (SDG 2 – Zero Hunger) to uplifting communities (SDG 10 – Reduced Inequalities; SDG 11 – Sustainable Cities and Communities), PUP demonstrates that academic excellence is inseparable from social responsibility. With this steadfast dedication, the University continues to serve as a driving force in shaping a sustainable future for the nation.

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First Four Clusters Mark Start of PUP 2025 Year-End Commencement Exercises

Fri, 19 Sep 2025 16:17:00 GMT

Gicel Roger Salvilla, News, Communication Management Office

The Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP) opened its 2025 Year-End Commencement Exercises on September 16–17 at the PUP Gymnasium, Sta. Mesa, Manila, celebrating the achievements of its first four graduation clusters (CAF, CBA, CAL, COC, CCIS, and CS).

The ceremonies were graced by four distinguished alumni—Maryknoll B. Zamora, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Zynergy Financial Consultancy Services; Atty. Romulo B. Macalintal, eminent election lawyer and elderly rights advocate; Johnson Manabat, senior reporter at ABS-CBN News; and Dr. Joseph Michael D. Nepomuceno, Chief Executive Officer of West Metro Medical Center—who returned to their alma mater to honor the new graduates.

“Dalhin ninyo ang tatak ng PUP—matatag, may malasakit, at handang magsilbi” said Zamora, urging the graduates to see their roots as a source of strength. (“Carry with you the mark of PUP—resilient, compassionate, and ready to serve,” she said.)

Macalintal, conferred the degree Doctor in Public Administration, Honoris Causa, reminded students that “ the diploma that you will receive is the product of years of hard work that not only you have invested, but also by the people who also want to see you learn and succeed and you should never fail them.”

Resilience, Service, and Mental Health
Across the ceremonies, speeches emphasized perseverance, mental well-being, and service to the nation. Manabat encouraged graduates to embrace failure as part of growth: “Hindi po iyan ang magde-define sa kung sino, at sa kung anong klaseng tao tayo… mas maganda kung papaano tayo tumatayo sa bawat pagkakataon na tayo ay nadadapa.” (“That is not what will define who we are or the kind of person we become… what matters more is how we rise every time we stumble,” he said.)

One of the most heartfelt moments came from valedictorian Dan Icon Henrique R. Aguirre (AB Filipinology, Summa Cum Laude), who spoke about living with bipolar disorder while navigating his student journey. “Maaaring tawagin itong person with disability, pero para sa akin, isa akong person with these abilities,” he shared (“Some may call it being a person with a disability, but for me, I am a person with these abilities”). He encouraged his fellow graduates to find strength in community: “Ngayon, gusto kong sabihin na hindi kayo nag-iisa—magkakasama tayo,” he said (“Today, I want to tell you that you are not alone—we are in this together”).

Valedictorian Alizza Ashley N. Castro (BSBA Financial Management, Summa Cum Laude) urged her fellow graduates to embrace the road ahead with confidence: “This chapter may be ending, but our bigger story is just beginning,” she said.

From the sciences, Jorge A. Torres IV (BS Biology, Summa Cum Laude) reminded his classmates of the greater purpose of learning: “Huwag nating kalilimutan na ang tunay na layunin ng ating kaalaman ay hindi lamang para sa kapwa eksperto kundi para sa mas nakararaming Pilipino” (“Let us not forget that the true purpose of our knowledge is not only for fellow experts but for the greater number of Filipinos”).

As an ending message, Commencement Speaker, Dr. Nepomuceno challenged the graduates to take up the call of servant leadership: “Para sa magsisipagtapos, kung saang sulok ng Pilipinas man kayo makarating, nawa’y patuloy na mag-alab ang pusong PUPian. Pinanday tayo para dito, at maglingkod sa pamilya, at sa bayan!” (“To all the graduates, wherever you may find yourselves in the Philippines, may the PUPian heart continue to burn brightly. We were forged for this — to serve our families and our nation!”)

Voices for Integrity and Social Responsibility
The celebrations were not only about personal milestones but also civic engagement. Towards the end of the CAL and COC program, a brief protest by some graduates called for transparency and accountability in public service. University officials affirmed PUP’s stand against corruption and commended students for speaking up as “iskolar ng bayan”, noting that responsible dissent is part of the democratic tradition the University upholds.

Ahead of the week-long commencement rites, the PUP leadership released a calling for transparent governance and enjoining graduates to be guardians of public integrity.

Remembering a Fallen Classmate
Maria Bernadeth Clemente, a 22-year-old BS Office Administration student, passed away on July 12 after a courageous battle with a chronic autoimmune disease. During the commencement rites, her mother, Leila Clemente, and brother, Jose Clemente, walked across the stage holding her graduation photo — a poignant gesture symbolizing her enduring presence and the fulfillment of her dream.

In an emotional moment, Mrs. Clemente shared how her daughter — known for her brilliance, warmth, and determination — continued to study and prepare for graduation even while confined at San Lazaro Hospital. “Yung una, nahihirapan ako talaga mag-attend,” she said (“At first, it was very hard for me to attend”). “Pero ito talaga ang pangarap niya at sobrang proud ako sa kanya,” she added (“But I know this was truly her dream, and I am so proud of her”).

She also expressed gratitude to Maria’s professors, classmates, and the University for their compassion and support in granting her daughter’s wish to graduate. Maria Bernadeth’s story stands as an inspiring reminder to the PUP community of resilience, hope, and the power of pursuing one’s dreams despite life’s challenges.

A Milestone Aligned with Global Goals
From the stirring speeches to moving tributes, the opening of the 2025 Year-End Commencement underscored PUP’s mission to develop competent, ethical, and service-oriented professionals. The event also advanced the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals: SDG 4 (Quality Education), SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure), and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals)—showing how education and social responsibility intertwine to shape future nation builders.

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Beyond Sight: CHK Leads International Sports Camp for the Visually Impaired

Fri, 19 Sep 2025 16:14:00 GMT

Gicel Roger Salvilla, News, Communication Management Office

Champions of inclusion, passion, and dedication defined the spirit of the International Seminar on Facilitating Educational Sports Camp for Children and Youth with Visual Impairment, a collaborative initiative of the PUP College of Human Kinetics, Parents Advocates for Visually Impaired Children (PAVIC), and the Perkins School for the Blind. The three-day event, held at the PUP Main Campus from June 4–6, 2025, concluded with resounding success.

The seminar brought together educators, advocates, parents, and visually impaired children, fostering an empowering space for learning, discovery, and the celebration of abilities beyond sight. Delegates from Bhutan, Indonesia, and Vietnam joined local participants in engaging workshops, sports clinics, and inspirational plenaries—all dedicated to advancing inclusive education and accessible sports.

A Celebration of Possibility
The event opened with messages of encouragement and unity from Director Felicitas C. Trinidad of PUP’s Office of International Affairs and Dean Lualhati A. Dela Cruz of the College of Human Kinetics. Both emphasized that the program was not merely about imparting knowledge and providing coaching, but about transforming perspectives, fostering confidence, and empowering lives.

Partners Ami Tango-Limketkai of the Perkins School and Roden Torres of PAVIC further inspired the audience, urging them to break down barriers of exclusion and embrace inclusive practices. A symbolic signing of partnerships sealed their shared commitment to advancing inclusive education and sports.

The day’s highlight was a plenary session led by Dr. Lauren Lieberman, a global authority on adaptive physical education. In her talk, “Universally Designing Sports and Physical Activities,” Dr. Lieberman emphasized that inclusive sports do not simply accommodate but uplift and empower entire communities. Participants later took part in hands-on coaching clinics in Blind Soccer and Goalball, where they quickly gained new skills while building friendships and confidence.

Strength in Every Step and Stroke
At the PUP Oval, the second day burst with energy as participants took part in track and field events—sprints, long jump, discus, and shot put—supported by guide runners, sound cues, and student volunteers. Each event stood as a testament to resilience and determination, with every leap and throw symbolizing a triumph over limits.

In the afternoon, the spotlight shifted to the swimming pool, where visually impaired children were introduced to the basics of swimming. Beyond skill-building, the session fostered courage, self-confidence, and the pure joy of discovering freedom in the water.

Overcoming Challenges, Together
On the final day, participants took on an obstacle race course with 11 stations, testing their confidence and problem-solving skills alongside the support of dedicated volunteers and coaches. The morning concluded with a friendly bocce game and a refreshing yoga session, both underscoring the values of teamwork, trust, and perseverance.

In her closing plenary address, Dr. Lauren Lieberman delivered a powerful message titled “Sports and Physical Activities for a Lifetime.” She emphasized the lasting importance of inclusion as a lifelong mission, reminding participants that sports should always be a source of health, confidence, and community—regardless of age or ability.

The seminar culminated in an awards and recognition ceremony that filled the hall with smiles, applause, and heartfelt reflections. For many participants, it was more than just a camp—it was a transformative experience that broke down stereotypes and opened doors to new horizons.

A Legacy of Inclusion
The seminar marked a milestone for PUP-CHK, demonstrating that impairment is not a barrier but a challenge that can be overcome through unity and purposeful action. Grounded in PUP’s core value of inclusivity, it resonated with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals—Good Health and Well-Being (SDG 3), Quality Education (SDG 4), Reduced Inequalities (SDG 10), and Partnerships for the Goals (SDG 17). As the event drew to a close, one truth prevailed: inclusion is not merely an advocacy but a responsibility—building a world where no one is left behind.

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