Maria Elena J. Sumisim, Project Evaluation Officer IV at the Provincial Planning and Development Office of the Provincial Government of Isabela, achieved an outstanding feat by ranking Top 3 in the August 2025 Environmental Planning Licensure Examination (EPLE). A graduate of the Diploma in Land Use Planning (DLUP) program of the University of the Philippines Open University (UPOU), Ms. Sumisim credits her success to hard work, faith, and the strong support of her mentors, peers, and family.
Maria Elena J. Sumisim, UPOU DLUP Alumna and Top 3 in the August 2025 EPLE
Ms. Sumisim vividly recalls how she learned of the results. Expecting the release around early evening, she had already fallen asleep from exhaustion when congratulatory messages started pouring in. “When I checked the Top 10 list, my name was there at Rank 3. I was so shocked because honestly, I wasn’t confident with how I did on Day 1 of the exam,” she shared. What followed was an outpouring of emotions, as she immediately called her family to celebrate the good news. “I had only prayed to pass, but He gave me so much more,” she added.
UPOU Preparation and Support
As a BS Business Administration graduate of UP Diliman (2015), Sumisim enrolled in the DLUP program in 2022, confident in the quality education that UPOU provides. The program, she said, broadened her perspective and deepened her understanding of the vital role of planning in community development.
She also emphasized the impact of the guidance and mentorship of Assistant Professor Remsce Pasahol, DLUP Program Chair, who spearheaded initiatives to strengthen students’ preparation for the licensure exam. Through the PASADO Program under UPOU ASCEND, DLUP graduates were provided with mentoring sessions and mock exams—crucial tools in preparing for the first-ever computer-based licensure examination in environmental planning.
“The mock exams really helped us get familiar with the possible exam interface and reinforced the concepts we studied. Prof. Pasahol constantly encouraged us to pursue additional review courses and learning opportunities. I’m really grateful for the supportive community he built, which has helped not just us to pass but also to excel—making UPOU the top-performing school,” Sumisim said.
Looking Ahead
Now a licensed Environmental Planner, Sumisim intends to continue her service at the Provincial Government of Isabela, while remaining open to further opportunities for professional and academic growth. “For those of us from the provinces who wish to pursue quality higher education, it would be a great opportunity to continue our studies with UPOU,” she remarked.
Maria Elena Sumisim’s story is a testament to perseverance, faith, and the power of an academic community that nurtures excellence. Her success not only brings pride to her family and province but also to UPOU, reaffirming its commitment to shaping professionals who make a difference in their communities.
UPOU DLUP graduates have been faring well in Environmental Planning Licensure Exams. With Sumisim was Ms. Irel Manansala who ranked first this 2025. In 2024, three of the UPOU graduates made it to the top 10, namely, EnP John Andrew Binay Cruz (Top 2), EnP Zeilanni Dale Almadrones Galicia (Top 7), and EnP Mary Ann Mocorro Marcellones (Top 8).
Written by Anna Cañas-Llamas | Edited by Primo G. Garcia | Photo from Maria Elena Sumisim
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