A UPOU learner based in Indonesia shared his experience with Open and Distance e-Learning during the UP VINTA Hybrid Learning Caravan in Jakarta, which gathered 86 Overseas Filipinos onsite and online.
Mr. Jhobal Sebarrotin, who previously completed UPOU’s Professional Teaching Certification (PTC) program, shared about how ODeL enabled him to qualify for and successfully pass the Licensure Examination for Teachers (LET). He is now pursuing the Doctor in Sustainability (DSus) program, which he describes as deeply relevant and transformative for his academic progression and professional growth.
He emphasized that UPOU’s programs have helped not only in enhancing his knowledge, but also in improving his work performance, highlighting how DSus courses and electives are highly applicable to his field and have provided him with valuable insights he can immediately use in his job. Beyond earning additional academic units and eventually obtaining a formal title or credential, he noted that the practical learning outcomes are what truly make the experience worthwhile.
Mr. Jhobal Sebarrotin speaks on how UPOU’s PTC and DSus programs helped advance his career and encouraged Overseas Filipinos to prioritize learning over scrolling in the UP VINTA Hybrid Launching in Jakarta, Indonesia.
Mr. Sebarrotin also highlighted the importance of time management in online learning, sharing that he sets aside weekends for his studies and encourages participants to make small adjustments—such as reducing social media time—to build consistent study habits. He added that learning alongside classmates from different countries and fields has been particularly valuable, as their varied perspectives enrich discussions and broaden understanding of course topics. He also noted that UPOU’s application process and online platforms are straightforward and accessible, making it easier for Overseas Filipinos to begin their studies and benefit from the flexibility of open and distance learning.
Mr. Sebarrotin concluded by affirming that UPOU truly lives up to the motto: “Pamantasang Bukas sa Magandang Bukas,” saying that he is living proof of how ODeL can open doors to better opportunities.
The UPOU Delegation with, from left to right, UP Alumni representatives Ms. Elizabeth Perez and Ms. Rosalie Ticman; Hon. Gonaranao Musor, Chargé d’Affaires of the Philippine Embassy in Jakarta, Indonesia, in the middle; Ms. Wendyflor Palomo, TFC News Correspondent; and Vice Consul Ihna Marie Alyssa Santos and Consul Maricar, from the Philippine Embassy in Jakarta.
The UPOU Hybrid Learning Caravan, held on 22 November 2025, was co-organized with the Philippine Embassy in Jakarta, Indonesia. The UPOU delegation was led by Chancellor Joane V. Serrano, joined by Asst. Prof. Charisse Reyes (Faculty of Education Dean), Asst. Prof. Margaret Suarez (Faculty of Information and Communication Studies Faculty Secretary), Asst. Prof. Remsce Pasahol (Faculty of Management and Development Studies Assistant to the Dean and PDA for Linkages), and Asst. Prof. Lorena Jean Saludadez (Assistant to the Chancellor for UP VINTA). The team presented UPOU’s academic programs and learning pathways and engaged with participants during the open forum.
The UPOU delegation, together with representatives from the Philippine Embassy in Jakarta, poses with participants of the UP VINTA Learning Caravan, commemorating their engagement and collaboration during the event.
Written by Kimberly Rose Robles | Edited by Lorena Jean Saludadez
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