University of the Philippines Open University (UPOU) Chancellor, Dr. Joane V. Serrano, together with officials, faculty, and research staff members, participated in the 28th OU5 (Open University 5) Biennial Research Summit hosted by Hanoi Open University in Quang Ninh Province from 20 to 24 April 2026.
Chancellor Serrano delivered the keynote address for the International Conference as part of the 28th OU5 Biennial Research Summit.
The OU5 Research Summit included an International Conference on Digital Economy in the Era of Artificial Intelligence held on 21 April 2026 where Chancellor Serrano delivered the keynote presentation titled “Reimagining the Digital Society in the Era of AI through Open, Inclusive, and Sustainable Education.” Her talk emphasized the role of open universities in advancing inclusive digital transformation and ensuring that emerging technologies contribute to sustainable development and equitable access to learning. She also shared insights on strengthening global partnerships to drive inclusive and sustainable learning futures.
Chancellor Serrano (3rd from right) with the leaders and vice rectors of the member institutions of the OU5.
The gathering brought together presidents, coordinators, and researchers from member institutions of the OU5 Research Group to strengthen collaboration and shape the future of open and distance education in the ASEAN region. These include the University of the Philippines Open University, Universitas Terbuka in Indonesia, Open University Malaysia, Hanoi Open University in Vietnam, and Sukhothai Thammathirat Open University in Thailand.
UPOU delegation to the 28th OU5 Biennial Research Summit, namely, Chancellor Serrano (center) with (L-R) Asst. Prof. Suarez, Dir. Jarabe, Asst. Prof. Saludadez, Ms. Yambao, Dr. Taylan, Asst. Prof. Arada and Dr. Reyes.
International experts and scholars also had the opportunity to exchange insights on artificial intelligence, data governance, digital infrastructure, and innovation. The discussions explored how institutions, enterprises, and governments can collaborate to build resilient, future-ready digital economies. From UPOU, the delegation included Dr. Charisse T. Reyes, Dean of UPOU Faculty of Education; Dr. Finaflor F. Taylan, Dean of the UPOU Faculty of Management and Development Studies; Asst. Prof. Blancaflor P. Arada, University Registrar; Asst. Prof. Maria Lourdes T. Jarabe, Director, Office of Gender Concerns; Asst. Prof. Lorena Jean Saludadez, Assistant to the Chancellor for VINTA; Asst. Prof. Margaret Jarmin-Suarez, OU5 Focal Person, and Ms. Yasele Yambao, Executive Assistant.
The Summit also served as a platform to review ongoing partnerships among the OU5 member institutions and to identify new opportunities for joint research, academic exchange, and institutional collaboration. The participation of UPOU in this international event underscores its continued commitment to global engagement and leadership in open and distance e-learning.
Through its active involvement in the OU5 Research Group, UPOU reinforces its role in shaping transformative education systems that respond to the demands of the digital age while remaining grounded in inclusivity, sustainability, and innovation.
Written by Anna Cañas-Llamas | Edited by and Photto by Margaret Jarmin-Suarez
