Polytechnic University of the Philippines

OCPS facilitates Community-Based Mental Health Training Program for employees

Tue, 15 Apr 2025 14:12:00 GMT

Jan Vincent Lanuza, News, Communication Management Office

Disclaimer: This article discusses sensitive topics related to mental health and suicide, which may be distressing for some readers. If you or someone you know is struggling, please seek support from a trusted loved one or professional resource. If you need further assistance, consider reaching out to the PUP Office of Counseling and Psychological Services (OCPS) at guidance@pup.edu.ph or at 335-1787/335-1777 local 321.

The Office of Counseling and Psychological Services (OCPS) of the Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP) held a community-based mental health training program for faculty personnel and administrative staff of the entire University system. It was held online on March 7 and at the Claro M. Recto Hall on March 10 to 11.

OCPS Director and event speaker Dr. Rodrigo V. Lopiga stated that its objective was to help facilitators gain understanding about mental health, train them on the delivery of a community-based mental health program (CBMH) who will implement the intervention among service users in need of minor and moderate mental health interventions in the PUP community.

“Ito ay intervention program, tinuturo namin sa kanila kung paano ang ‘self-care’, kung paano nila bibigyan ng intervention ang mga cases na mild to moderate cases dahil kaya na ito ng community-based mental health.”

(This is an intervention program where we teach them about ‘self-care’ and how to provide interventions for mild to moderate cases, as these can already be managed through community-based mental health programs.)

When asked about the importance of a mental health support system in the University, Lopiga mentioned “ang mental health, katulad ng physical health, ay napakaimportante. Ang physical health, kapag hindi na-address, lumalala at naco-confine ang isang tao dahil sa sakit. The same with mental health, kapag napabayaan natin ang anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues, maari rin po tayong ma-confine o maari rin tayong madala sa ospital.”

(Mental health, just like physical health, is extremely important. If physical health issues are not addressed, they can worsen, leading to hospitalization. The same goes for mental health—if we neglect anxiety, depression, and other mental health concerns, we may also end up being confined or hospitalized.)

The first day of the program discussed the key factors about Mental Health Literacy, introduced Mental Health Screening Tools, provided a platform for deep understanding about mental health and suicide, its protocols, and its screening tool Columbia-Suicide Severity Rating Scale (C-SSRS), and the principles and ethics in providing Mental, Neurological, and Substance use (MNS) services to individuals.

In the on-site training during the second and third day, Lopiga talked about enhancing the participants’ Mental Health and Psychosocial Support (MHPSS) skills in supportive communication in order to foster a positive, honest, and empathic atmosphere during a psychological intervention, presented interventions such as Mental Health First Aid - Approach Listen Give Encourage Encourage (MHFA - ALGEE) Action Plan and Katatagan Plus to provide psychological assistance to people individuals with mild and moderate cases of mental health distress while facilitating simulation exercises to prepare the attending employees.

Following each lecture during this multi-day seminar, a forum was held where Lopiga and participants discussed their experiences in dealing with individuals experiencing mental health issues while exploring the best possible options in encouraging and comforting them.

When asked about the importance of the training that they have, Doris G. Bleza, Chief for the Client Relations Section of the Human Resource Management Department (HRMD) remarked that not only can she utilize it to her fellow employees, but she has also learned mental health sensitivity practices that she will remember when conversing with her family. Meanwhile, Dr. Ferdie T. Lubis, Chairperson of the Department of Service Physical Education of the College of Human Kinetics (CHK), noted that he plans to use the knowledge that he gained to become a compassionate leader to his co-faculty and be a sympathetic professor to his students.

Vice President for Campuses Prof. Pascualito B. Gatan, as delivered by the Assistant Vice President for Campuses (AVPC) Assoc. Prof. Roseller M. Malabanan, declared that all the attendees are now a part of a vital network and a force for positive change that will be instrumental in creating a healthier and more supportive community in PUP.

“Altogether, let us carry the spirit of this training forward. Let us be champions of mental health and let us work together to build a community where everyone will feel seen, heard, and supported,” Gatan said.

The Community-Based Mental Health Training Program serves as Phase 1 of OCPS’ Mental Health Caravan where the PUP Community can expect several campus visits and aid them into implementing their mental health training, monitoring actions for the instituted programs and potentially craft a Mental Health Policy in the University in the next subsequent phases.

_{(Note: English translation generated from AI.)}

View this article in PUPWebSite

CAF dominates in 2025 BSP Youth Financial Inclusion Hackathon

Tue, 15 Apr 2025 14:07:00 GMT

Sarah Nicole Celadenia, News, Communication Management Office

Two teams from the Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP) – College of Accountancy and Finance (CAF) earned top spots at the 2025 BSP Youth Financial Inclusion Congress - Youth Financial Inclusion Hackathon held on April 2, 2025, at the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) Head Office.

The event brought together students from over 22 universities, including De La Salle University, Ateneo de Manila University, University of the Philippines Diliman, and University of San Carlos, to develop digital solutions for financial inclusion.

The PentAgila group, composed of second year Financial Management students Caitlin Faith A. Hashimoto, Marjorie B. Cabato, and Bart Patrick J. Familar secured the first place for their project AniKansya, a digital savings platform designed for Filipino farmers with seasonal income, featuring automated savings and voice-guided navigation for accessibility.

On the other hand, JVFC Malaya, which consisted of fourth year Accounting, Financial Management, and Management Accounting students Jayson F. Santiago, Jose Manuel M. Lapesora, Csean Chloe B. Olleta, Frederick Gabriel A. Ramos, and Veniz C. Velasquez, earned fifth for their project TeknOffline: Bayad Mo, Puwede Nang Offline!, an alternative mobile payment service that enables offline payments, supports small businesses, and addresses connectivity issues in rural areas.

According to Santiago, the JVFC team leader, the competition demonstrated the university’s commitment to creating a competitive environment and providing quality education that encourage students to aim for excellence and explore more opportunities.

Also, with support through funding, feedback, and mentorship from advisers Dr. Ria S. Fajilago, Dr. Michael Bryan G. De Castro, Prof. Rolando I. Fernandez, and Prof. Gem B. Galupar, both teams were able to refine their ideas, gather resources, training, secure funding, and receive critical feedback at every practice to help improve their project and ideas.

“This win serves as an inspiration to other students proving that with creativity and collaboration, they, too, can innovate and contribute to financial inclusion,” Hashimoto, the team leader of PentAgila, stated.

The team’s success at the 2025 BSP YFI Hackathon sets the stage for promising developments ahead, with the potential for continued project development and real-world testing. These plans focus on refining functionality based on user feedback, exploring partnerships to broaden the solutions’ reach, and conducting pilot tests in rural areas to ensure practical applicability and promote wider adoption.

View this article in PUPWebSite

COL holds academic forum on global justice system

Tue, 15 Apr 2025 14:04:00 GMT

Kier James Hernandez, Tricia Mari Abad, News, PUP Campus Journalists

The PUP College of Law, in coordination with the PUP College of Law Student Council and PUP College of Law Research Corps, conducted an academic forum titled “Justice Beyond Borders: An Academic Forum on the Constitutional and International Law Perspectives on the Arrest of Former President Rodrigo Duterte.”

Held at the Silid Lakan Dayang, University Library on March 31, it discussed the legality of the arrest on Former President Rodrigo Duterte. The forum focused on the importance of harmonizing the Philippine Constitution, Domestic Laws, and International Laws, especially on cases like Duterte.

Duterte’s arrest is legal
The former president was arrested on March 11 for crimes against humanity of murder committed between November 2011 and March 2016. He was then surrendered to the ICC at The Hague, in the Netherlands on March 12. He is waiting for the scheduled confirmation of charges to begin on September 23. The recent arrest of the former president draws clamor from its supporters, citing that the ICC has no jurisdiction in the Philippines since 2019, thus compromising the country’s sovereignty due to the interference of foreign entities. However, Atty. Evecar B. Cruz-Ferrer, an International Humanitarian Lawyer and professor at the PUP College of Law, emphasized that the arrest of Duterte is legal.

Atty. Cruz-Ferrer, in her topic “International Law Perspectives Surrounding The Arrest of Former President Duterte,” stated that international laws are part of the Philippine laws as stated in Article 2, Section 2 of the country’s Constitution, thus needing harmonization of the two.

She then presented Article 127 of the International Criminal Court (ICC) Rome Statute to reiterate the validity of the arrest, saying that the withdrawal to the ICC does not affect jurisdiction over crimes committed before the withdrawal date. For context, the country was with the ICC from November 2011 until March 2019—well within the timeline where that event happened.

Affirming the validity of the said article, Atty. Cruz-Ferrer cited Pangilinan v. Cayetano’s case, where the Supreme Court ruled the petition as “moot,” provided that the Philippines’ withdrawal from the ICC was accepted and acknowledged.

Moreover, on the question that can the Philippines surrender Duterte to the ICC, the speaker presented Section 17 of Republic Act No. 9851, a law stating that when an international tribunal is already undertaking the prosecution of an accused of crimes, the Philippines, in the interest of justice, may dispense with its own investigation or prosecution and surrender the person to the appropriate international court.

Atty. Cruz-Ferrer concluded the discussion by pointing out that the country did not give up its sovereignty by surrendering Duterte to the ICC because, according to her, the right to enter into agreements, like joining the ICC, is part of exercising sovereignty, thus validating the former head of state’s arrest.

On due process and constitutional supremacy
Another topic discussed in the forum is “The Imperative for a Constitutional Paradigm on the arrest of Former President Duterte” presented by Atty. Alex F. Medina, another College of Law professor, and Political Law expert. He emphasized on his topic that on the arrest of the former president, the manner of compliance with the constitution is the real issue.

Atty. Medina said that the Philippines should comply with international obligations through the three rules of validity: arrest, detention, and surrender. He stressed that the presidency cannot ignore or disregard the Constitution and must ensure due process, emphasizing that international cooperation must align with it.

When asked about the possibility of sending the former President back to the country, he pointed out that the judgment and authority of the ICC should be followed for the time being.

In the context of the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court, Article 59 addresses “Arrest proceedings in the custodial State” and describes how a state can arrest a person wanted by the ICC. Atty. Medina said that whether it is surrender or deportation is up to the international court’s decision.

Atty. Medina’s focus on constitutional supremacy concludes his perspective that the actions involving the arrest of former President Duterte must be aligned with the Philippine Constitution first, even in cooperation with international tribunals like the ICC.

In the latter part of the forum, the moderators, Atty. Anna Margarita Malonzo and Tonisito M.C. Umali opened the panel discussion with the speakers to further respond to the inquiries of the PUPians and reiterated their stances regarding the legality of Duterte’s arrest and the jurisdiction of the ICC.

The University remains an important space for academic discussion and deeper insights into public issues that may often be viewed as controversial and polarizing. Such forum shows the University’s support to building knowledge and strengthening democratic pillars through civil discourse.

View this article in PUPWebSite

CANVAS OF POSSIBILITIES: ADPR launches project for people with special needs

Mon, 14 Apr 2025 14:23:00 GMT

Dr. Edna Tormon-Bernabe, News, Extension Management Office

The Department of Advertising and Public Relations has launched a project that will give hope to people with disabilities as they participate in a series of artistic activities that will soon be an avenue for a profitable business venture.

The project “SALIKHABONG—Canvass of Possibilities: Empowering Abilities and Sustaining Livelihood through Arts” is an extension initiative of the Department of Advertising and Public Relations for individuals with special needs from the Handicapped Center Lourdes (HCL) at the Caritas Compound in Manila. The extension project aims to empower the PWDs by providing them with opportunities to engage in activities that showcase their abilities, eventually allowing them to gain confidence and develop a sense of independence.

The project has an initial 15 PWD participants, five parent volunteers, eight COC-ADPR representatives composed of faculty and alumni resource persons and faculty facilitators, the HCL head teacher, and some student volunteers. The project team is composed of Dr. Jerielyn Reyes as the project head, Chair Rosanna Manansala as assistant project head, and project members Prof. Adelio Sulit, Prof. Reynaldo Guerzon, Prof. Christwin Felix, and Dr. Edna Bernabe as project coordinator. Mr. JM Saycon, an alumnus of the AD-PR department and now making a name in the industry, had volunteered to share his expertise in visual arts.

The project’s partner-beneficiary, the Handicapped Center Lourdes (HCL), is a non-profit organization founded by His Eminence Jaime Cardinal Sin, who appointed Father Luke Moortgat as the HCL Minister on February 11, 1993, the feast day of the Lady of Lourdes. The center gives multiple handicapped individuals an opportunity to live a decent life through proper care, nutrition, and all the necessities. Later on, His Excellency Antonio Luis Cardinal Tagle became the chairperson of the center. The HCL has four pilot programs: a Residential Program, a Special Education Program, an Extensive Care Program, and an Advocacy Program. The ADPR’s SALIKHABONG.

A History Fulfilled
Dr. Reyes first proposed the extension project to then-COC Dean Dr. Edna Bernabe in 2018. In 2019, Dr. Reyes initiated the planning and coordination, but the pandemic prevented it from materializing. Dr. Reyes, upon seeing another opportunity, reconnected with HCL in 2023 and started reorganizing the team, held meetings, and finally proposed a project to the Extension Management Office (EMO) for an institutional fund in 2024. In October 2024, the EMO approved the project and allocated an initial 72,000.00 fund. After seven years of waiting, Phase 1 of the project commenced in December 2024 and is expected to be completed in April 2025.

Preliminaries: Coordination Meeting, Orientation, and Sensitivity Training
Determined to pursue this noble project, the ADPR extension team, led by Dr. Jerielyn Reyes, conducted a series of coordination meetings with the extension team and held a virtual orientation for all the parties involved in the project in December 2024. Likewise, another orientation meeting was given to the student volunteers, and sensitivity training for the implementers was conducted by the Handicapped Center Lourdes and led by Ms. Delima.

The sensitivity training gave the implementer a wider perspective on what the situation is all about and a clearer perspective and understanding of the nature of the participants. Similarly, the faculty and student volunteers received training on how to manage the participants during the activities.

Day 1: A Challenging, Emotional Day
The first session day of the workshop at the HCL was both challenging and emotional. The ADPR extension project team arrived at the venue on time and was welcomed by the center’s coordinator, Ms. Veronica Delima, fondly called Ate Veron, the participants, and the parent volunteers. Some members of the project team were taken aback as they saw the participants with multiple disabilities. Most of them have both visual and hearing impairments, while others have mild to severe cerebral palsy and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)—a bit of a challenging situation as initially perceived by the team. The room was full of emotions and anticipation on how to carry out the project. The team gathered for a few minutes to discuss how to execute the activities, assign tasks to members and volunteers, and soon enough the session started.

The COC-ADPR Extension Team and the HCL Coordinator delivered messages during a brief introductory program. Dr. Edna Bernabe delivered an inspiring opening message, expressing her enthusiasm as she emphasized the significant contribution of the project in fostering inclusivity by empowering individuals with multiple disabilities. She also assured the partner beneficiaries that the COC-ADPR is committed to pursuing the project. Project Head Dr. Jerielyn Reyes discussed briefly the schedule and the activities for the four sessions.

Chairperson Ronna Manansala, though a bit emotional, was able to pull through and deliver her thank you message, saying that we can do difficult things for as long as everyone is committed and involved. Mr. JM Saycon, as a representative of the alumni, also shared his thoughts, mentioning that other members of the alumni who are now prominent painters can also join in this endeavor. He also pledged to help in the next phases of the project.

Fun During the Sessions
To everyone’s surprise, the activity that was initially perceived as difficult has turned into a source of happiness and excitement for both participants and facilitators. Everyone involved was very excited and enthusiastic during session 1 and session 2. The faculty resource persons and facilitators found it easier to communicate as they were taught simple and basic sign language, and parent volunteers and social workers were very helpful and participative.

More than anyone else, the participants, with their challenging situations, were very active and cooperative. Some may have issues with attention span, but facilitators were patiently getting their attention to finish their tasks. The participants completed Sessions 1 and 2, crafting a total of 20 paintings artistically.

Looking Ahead toward a Productive Future
There is much to be anticipated in this project. The project has two more art sessions for April 2025. The Phase 2 proposal is currently being reviewed for funding, and once approved, coordination and implementation will take place. As Phase 1 is being completed to produce more artwork for our beneficiaries with special needs, the succeeding phases will be dedicated to the training of the parent volunteers and social workers on how to market the artwork, massive communication campaigns to advertise and market the produced artwork, and eventually the training for the reproduction of the artwork into different types of merchandise for sustainable livelihood for the beneficiaries. A marketing strategy is likewise being planned.

Indeed, every single individual in this collaborative journey is important. The PUP, through the SALIKHABONG Project, is committed to making into a reality the vision of establishing a sustainable economic opportunity for a marginalized and vulnerable sector of society.

View this article in PUPWebSite

Calauan launches business innovation hub and showcases local products

Fri, 11 Apr 2025 17:46:00 GMT

Mark Anecito R. Perlas, Marynelle L. Rosales, News, Office of the Vice President for Research, Extension, and Development

Calauan Campus officially launched its Business Innovation Hub on March 25, 2025, in collaboration with the Intellectual Property Management Office (IPMO). This initiative, part of the PUPCINTA (PUP Calauan Innovation and Technology Advancement) project, aims to foster local entrepreneurship and showcase innovative products developed by students and faculty.

Dr. Arlene Queri, Campus Director, opened the ceremony with an inspiring speech emphasizing the importance of innovation and collaboration.

“Today marks a new chapter for our campus, one that is driven by innovation, collaboration, and purposeful action,” she stated.

“This launch is not only a celebration of entrepreneurial spirit and academic ingenuity but also a reflection of our unwavering commitment to serve as a catalyst for socio-economic development in our community.”

The event featured a ribbon-cutting ceremony which unveiled a diverse array of products, including food items like shortcakes, tarts, and juices, as well as non-food products such as soaps and washing liquids—all made from locally sourced pineapples. These products showcase the creativity and resourcefulness of the PUP Calauan community.

Dr. Queri also highlighted the significance of the spin-off businesses, stating, “These ventures are not just business models—they are solutions to real-world problems, grounded in research, empowered by technology, and addressing the needs of our people.” Her words resonated with attendees, reinforcing the idea that innovation can lead to meaningful change in the community.

The ceremony also included the signing of a Memorandum of Agreement led by IPMO Director Dr. Gino L. Andres for a ?250,000 Commercialization Grant. This grant will support the PUPCINTA initiative. Additionally, a Certificate of Utility Model was awarded to the Pineapple Core Acharra, recognizing its innovative design and potential impact.

Afterwards, Engr. John Helarch V. Antonio, IPMO Technical Expert, facilitated an Intellectual Property Awareness campaign for faculty and students. Prof. Rowena Miranda and Prof. Lyza Pagapulan led an orientation on the processes for protecting their ideas under the PUPCINTA Project. Also present from IPMO are Innovations and Technology Support Office (ITSO) Chief Mark Anecito R. Perlas, Technical Expert Engr. Christine Mona Liza Apatan, and Ms. Maria Ruth M. Mungcal. This initiative is vital for fostering a culture of creativity within the campus.

Dr. Queri concluded her speech with a call to action, saying, “May this launching not only spark inspiration but also ignite meaningful partnerships that will advance our institution’s mission.” She expressed her gratitude to everyone involved in making this milestone possible, including research teams, industry partners, and the dedicated students and faculty who brought their ideas to life.

The innovative products developed by the PUP Calauan community became available to the public in December 2023 through a store located in Kanluran, Calauan. This hub not only serves as a marketplace but also as a center for collaboration and support for aspiring entrepreneurs in the region.

_{Photo source: Polytechnic University of the Philippines Calauan, Laguna Campus Facebook Page.}

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PUP, nagbukas ng bagong kampus sa Leyte at Talisay

Tue, 08 Apr 2025 14:30:00 GMT

PUP Sta. Mesa, Manila, Press Release, Communication Management Office

Buong kagalakang ibinabahagi ng Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP) ang pagbubukas ng dalawang bagong kampus sa Leyte at Talisay, isang malaking hakbang sa pagpapalawak ng de-kalidad na pampublikong edukasyon sa bansa.

Ang nasabing mga kampus ay opisyal na nagsimula ng kanilang mga operasyon noong ikalawang semestre ng AY 2024-2025, sa pangunguna ni Direktor Dan E. Dalac ng PUP Leyte at Direktor Armando A. Torres ng PUP Talisay. Ang layunin ng mga kampus na ito ay magpatuloy na makapagbigay ng abot-kaya at mataas na kalidad ng pag-aaral para sa mga mag-aaral sa kanilang mga rehiyon.

Ang mga bagong kampus ay may mga programang pang-akademiko na nakatuon sa pangangailangan ng industriya at ng komunidad. Kabilang sa mga inisyal na programang maaaring makuha ay:

PUP Leyte Campus (Barangay Calasigue, Leyte)

Bachelor of Science in Information Technology
Bachelor of Science in Entrepreneurship
Bachelor of Science in Business Administration major in Marketing Management

PUP Talisay Campus (Poblacion 5, Talisay, Batangas)

Bachelor of Public Administration with specialization in Fiscal Administration
Bachelor of Science in Entrepreneurship

Ang pagtatatag ng dalawang kampus ay sumasalamin sa misyon ng institusyon na makapagbigay ng mataas na edukasyon sa pamamagitan ng kahusayan sa akademya, inobasyon, at magagamit para matugunan ang mga kakulangan at pangangailan ng rehiyon.

Gayundin, inaasahang mapalakas ang kahusayan ng mga mag-aaral para makapag-ambag sa kani-kanilang mga larangan at komunidad.

Sama-sama nating ipagdiwang ang bagong kabanata ng PUP at iipagpatuloy ang paghubog sa hinaharap ng edukasyon.

Para sa mga katanungan mula sa media, maaaring makipag-ugnayan kay:
Elaine Carie A. Andres
Media Relations Officer
Polytechnic University of the Philippine
ecaandres@pup.edu.ph
0966 8130241

View this article in PUPWebSite

PUP, nagtala ng mahigit 200K aplikante para sa PUPCET 2025

Mon, 07 Apr 2025 19:55:00 GMT

PUP Sta. Mesa, Manila, Press Release, Communication Management Office

Isinagawa ng Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP) ang huling batch ng Polytechnic University of the Philippines College Entrance Test (PUPCET) para sa Academic Year 2025-2026 nitong Linggo, Abril 6, 2025 sa Sta. Mesa Campus.

Ang kabuuang bilang ng mga aplikante ay umabot sa 181,598 na siya namang hinati sa iba’t ibang araw ng pagsusulit simula Enero hanggang ngayong Abril. Ang nasabing huling petsa ng pagsusulit ay nagmamarka ng pagtatapos ng malawakang proseso ng pagtanggap ng institusyon para sa mga nagnanais maging estudyante para sa unang taon sa kolehiyo. Bukas pa ang ilang kampus ng PUP para sa entrance exam.

Patuloy na ipinapakita na ang reputasyon ng unibersidad bilang pangunahing pagpipilian para sa mga estudyanteng Pilipino na naghahanap ng dekalidad na abot-kayang may mataas na edukasyon. Sa pagsasama-sama ng mga opisyal ng unibersidad, mga kasaping institusyon, at mga local na pamahalaan, ipagpapatuloy ang kanilang suporta upang matiyak ang kaligtasan at kaayusan na pamamahala para sa huling araw ng pagsusulit na ito. Mula sa kanilang pagtutulungan, nabigyang halaga ang pagpa-paabot sa mga estudyante mula sa kani-kanilang komunidad para matiyak ang inklusibong akses sa pampublikong edukasyon.

“Kami ay nagpapasalamat sa labis na interes na ipinakita ng mga estudyante mula sa iba’t ibang panig ng bansa na maging bahagi ng komunidad ng PUP. Ang PUPCET ay nananatiling isang mahalagang hakbang upang matiyak na makapagpasok tayo ng mga hinaharap na Iskolar ng Bayan na handang gumawa ng pagbabago,” sabi ni Dr. Manuel M. Muhi, Pangulo ng Unibersidad.

Ang PUP ay patuloy na isusulong ang inklusibo at progresibong edukasyon upang pagbuksan ng pintuan ang mga karapat-dapat na estudyanteng Pilipino mula sa lahat ng antas ng buhay. Ang opisyal na resulta ng PUPCET 2025 ay inaasahang ilalabas sa Hunyo sa pamamagitan ng iApply account, opisyal na website ng unibersidad, at sa mga social media platform ng unibersidad.

Para sa mga update at katanungan, bisitahin ang www.pup.edu.ph o i-follow ang @ThePUPOfficial sa Facebook.
Para sa mga katanungan mula sa media, maaaring makipag-ugnayan kay:
Angelo G. Acedera
Media Relations Officer
Polytechnic University of the Philippine
agacedera@pup.edu.ph
0945 4855227

View this article in PUPWebSite

PIA-Led Youth Forum boosts factual awareness of West PH Sea among PUPians

Mon, 07 Apr 2025 14:58:00 GMT

Trixie Mae Del Rosario, News, Communication Management Office

Amid the ongoing maritime dispute in the West Philippine Sea (WPS), the Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP) partnered with multiple government agencies to host the “West Philippine Sea Youth Forum” on March 28 at PUP’s Bulwagang Balagtas. The event was spearheaded to highlight the youth’s critical role in understanding and addressing the issue.

Organized in collaboration with the Philippine Information Agency - National Capital Region (PIA-NCR), Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), National Task Force West Philippine Sea (NTF-WPS), and National Youth Commission (NYC), the forum sought to deepen students’ awareness of the WPS.

“Right now, we’re explaining what’s happening in the West Philippine Sea, but in perspective, it broadens our outlook. That’s the bigger benefit students gain from this activity,” said PIA-NCR Regional Director Emver Cortez in an interview.

The forum featured talks by government representatives and a photo exhibit, “Pag-asa sa Gitna ng Kalayaan,” presented by the National Library of the Philippines Cartographic Collection. It showcased historical maps and vibrant images of marine life in the WPS.

The Power of information
PIA emphasized the dangers of fake news and its impact on public perception of national issues like the WPS. PIA Director-General Katherine Chloe De Castro underscored the youth’s influence in the digital age and its potential to safeguard national interests.

“Kung mali at mapanlinlang ang impormasyon, maaari itong magdulot ng hindi pagkakaunawaan at pagkasira ng tiwala sa institusyon,” she warned.

(If information is false and misleading, it can cause misunderstanding and damage trust in the institution.)

To equip students with the tools to navigate the digital landscape, PIA-NCR conducted a Media and Information Literacy session.

“Media today is vast—beyond print and mass media, we now have digital media. It’s powerful, so we must be cautious. Not everything we encounter is true,” explained PIA-NCR Information Officer Jimmyley Guzman. She outlined the differences between misinformation (false information shared unintentionally), disinformation (false information spread deliberately), and malinformation (fabricated information), while offering strategies to identify them.

Guzman also stressed responsible sharing: “Media and Information Literacy isn’t just about fact-checking. It’s about accessing, analyzing, and thoughtfully sharing accurate information with others.” Students were encouraged to extend this knowledge to other generations, particularly older individuals who may struggle to distinguish credible information online.

WPS as an ‘Intergenerational Issue’
The Philippines’ Sovereign Rights and Maritime Security in the West Philippine Sea, PCG and WPS Spokesperson Commodore Jay Tarriela emphasized the need for Filipinos—especially young people—to be well-informed about the territorial dispute.

“The only way to awaken their sense of patriotism is for them to see, hear, and understand what’s happening,” he said.

Tarriela argued that an informed public can unify the Philippines’ stance on the WPS, sending a clear message globally and countering China’s aggressive actions. “We want the world to know there’s a country that disregards international law, bullying smaller nations with its military and economic might,” he stated.

He further described the WPS dispute as an “intergenerational issue,” one that future generations will inherit. “This problem will pass to the next leaders—our youth. You will face this fight. That’s why it’s vital for you to understand what we’re fighting for and why,” Tarriela urged.

The discussion reminded the PUPian student attendees, majority from the College of Political Science and Social Public Administration, about the West Philippine Sea issue and its relevancy as students. Learning events such as this enhance community engagement and awareness on pressing issues that affect the nation – a commitment PUP is willing to take in pursuit of its vision and mission.

_{(Note: English translation generated from AI.)}

View this article in PUPWebSite

BFAR and PUP-OUS forge a partnership to strengthen fisheries education

Wed, 02 Apr 2025 17:22:00 GMT

Elaine Carie A. Andres, News, Communication Management Office

The Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) and the Polytechnic University of the Philippines—Open University System (PUP-OUS) formalized a partnership to advance the fisheries sector through academic excellence, research innovation, and gender-responsive development. On March 18, representatives from both institutions signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) during a coordination meeting at the Mateo Conference Room.

The collaboration aims to address challenges faced by the industry and promote sustainable fishing practices through education-based solutions. It highlights the importance of inclusive education in empowering students, researchers, and stakeholders in the fisheries sector.

Executive Director of PUP-OUS Dr. Rudolf Anthony A. Lacerna emphasized the significance of this partnership: “Yung partnership ng PUP at BFAR ay isa na namang masasabing penomena sa larangan ng edukasyon lalo na sa pamamagitan ng Open and Distance Learning ng PUP Open University System lalong lalo na sa pagkakaroon ng sinasabing Inclusive Education. Mula pa naman noon ay may mga mag-aaral na ang PUP Open University System na nagtatrabaho sa BFAR. Pero sa pagkakataong ito, pati ang mga beneficiaries ng BFAR sa kanilang iba’t ibang proyekto ay bibigyan na rin ng PUP ng access sa formal education. Sa darating na 1st Semester ng 2025-2026, dalawang section ng mga fisherfolks ang makakapag-aral sa PUP Open University System sa tulong ng mga pasilidad na mayroon ang BFAR. Isang section para sa kukuha ng entrepreneurship at isang section ang kukuha ng marketing. Panibagong sektor na naman ang paghahainan ng PUP Open University System ng kalidad na edukasyon.”

(The partnership between PUP and BFAR can be considered another phenomenon in the field of education, especially through the Open and Distance Learning of the PUP Open University System, particularly in the implementation of what is called Inclusive Education. Since then, there have been students from the PUP Open University System who have been working at BFAR. This time, PUP will also provide formal education to the beneficiaries of BFAR’s various projects. In the upcoming 1st Semester of 2025-2026, two sections of fisherfolk will be able to study at the PUP Open University System with the help of the facilities provided by BFAR. There will be one section dedicated to entrepreneurship and another to marketing. The PUP Open University System will provide quality education to another sector.)

BFAR officials expressed hope about the partnership’s potential to bridge gaps in fisheries education and research. The initiative will allow fisherfolk beneficiaries of BFAR projects to access formal education at PUP-OUS starting the first semester of 2025–2026, with dedicated sections for entrepreneurship and marketing courses.

This partnership sets a strong foundation for advancing fisheries education and equipping future industry leaders with the skills needed to drive sustainable development in the sector.

_{(Note: English Translation and Grammar Check generated by AI.)}

_{Photo source: BFAR Philippines Facebook Page.}

_{Photo source: BFAR Philippines Facebook Page.}

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IQMSO holds Knowledge Management seminar

Mon, 31 Mar 2025 13:24:00 GMT

Brent Soriano, News, Communication Management Office

The Institutional Quality Management System Office (IQMSO) successfully facilitated a Knowledge Management Seminar, March 5, Bulwagang Bonifacio, Ninoy Aquino Library and Learning Resources Center (NALLRC). The seminar was designed for select officials and staff from key university sectors, including the Office of the Executive President (OEVP), Office of the Vice President for Planning and Finance (OVPPF), and Office of the Vice President for Student Affairs and Services (OVPSAS).

Michael dela Fuente, Chief of the Knowledge Management Office (KMO), emphasized the crucial role of Knowledge Management (KM) in organizations. He highlighted that KM is not just about receiving and acquiring information but also about tracking and sharing knowledge with relevant stakeholders to enhance institutional learning and efficiency.

Meanwhile, Dr. Anna Ruby Gapasin, Vice President for Research, Extension, and Development, stressed the role of stakeholders and public audience as “knowledge handlers”, asserting that individuals produce and generate knowledge based on their senses, perceptions, and experiences.

The event featured Liezel M. Aldiano, Information Officer from the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA), as the resource speaker. For her, KM ensures the right knowledge is delivered to the right people at the right time in the right format, promoting optimal decision-making and operational efficiency.

To deepen the understanding of participants of KM, Aldiano discussed the two types of knowledge: tacit and explicit. Tacit knowledge is personal and experience-based—something people carry in their heads, such as skills, memories, and insights. Explicit knowledge, on the other hand, is structured and documented, found in manuals, books, databases, slide presentations, and others.

While these types of knowledge differ, Aldiano emphasized that tacit knowledge can be transformed into explicit knowledge and vice versa, reinforcing the importance of proper documentation and knowledge-sharing practices.

To strengthen the institution’s commitment to knowledge management, it is vital to document and formalize its implementation. Effective KM allows for the seamless collection and sharing of knowledge across various sectors, units, and individuals. It also streamlines office processes for improved service efficiency, ensures the continuity of ongoing initiatives, and fosters stronger, more collaborative relationships within the institution.

Following the seminar, participants are expected to become advocates of Knowledge Management (KM) within their respective offices and units. As KM champions, they are encouraged to promote the importance of knowledge sharing, identify and address issues, foster collaboration, and engage in meaningful discussions by asking and answering questions willingly.

Aldiano emphasized the significance of feedback culture in the implementation of KM. She acknowledged that while some individuals may struggle with receiving feedback. Moreover, fostering an environment where constructive criticism is accepted and valued is essential for growth and continuous learning.

The seminar underscored the need for open communication and cooperation, reinforcing that a culture of knowledge sharing is key to organizational success. This remains consistent with the University’s goal of becoming an effective research and polytechnic university in the region.

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