OUgnayan Wednesday merchants from San Antonio Women’s Brigade and Homemade + Handmade
with Ms. Grace Perez of UPOU FMDS.
The University of the Philippines Open University (UPOU), through the Faculty of Management and Development Studies (FMDS), celebrated the first anniversary of OUgnayan Wednesdays, a community market initiative that has become a space for interaction, collaboration, and community building among members of the UPOU community and its surrounding communities.
FMDS Dean Finaflor Taylan gives her recorded opening remarks.
The celebration opened with welcome remarks from FMDS Dean Dr. Finaflor Taylan, who highlighted the significance of OUgnayan Wednesdays as a platform that embodies the University’s commitment to openness, public service, and community engagement.
Chancellor Serrano delivers her message to the UPOU Community and OUgnayan merchants
during the first anniversary celebration.
In her inspiring message, Chancellor Dr. Joane Serrano reflected on how OUgnayan Wednesdays started and eventually materialized through the collective efforts of various stakeholders. She noted that the initiative has strengthened UPOU’s connections with surrounding communities while creating opportunities for networking and collaboration. Chancellor Serrano expressed hope for greater participation from students, student organizations, and alumni.
As part of the anniversary celebration, participants took part in a trivia game that tested their knowledge of OUgnayan Wednesdays and its milestones over the past year.
The event also featured stories, experiences, and messages from the merchants who have been part of the initiative since its early stages.
The FMDS Permagarden shared that OUgnayan Wednesdays has provided an opportunity to sell produce grown within the community while fostering a strong sense of belonging among participants.
San Antonio Women’s Brigade, expressed gratitude to the UPOU community for continuously supporting their products. She emphasized that every food item they prepare is made with care and dedication, describing them as “lutong pagmamahal.”
Homemade+Handmade recalled the warm welcome they received when they joined the market. She shared that their products are sourced from local farmers and that they support local agricultural communities.
Bitbit PH thanked everyone involved in organizing and sustaining OUgnayan Wednesdays. She shared that beyond providing an additional source of income, the market has become a space for building friendships and testing long-held business ideas. According to her, the initiative promotes community building and network building among participants while supporting small entrepreneurs in a collaborative environment.
Mama Ann’s Kitchen expressed her appreciation for being part of the OUgnayan community. She shared that she did not expect to join in such a welcoming and collaborative network and looks forward to future partnerships and activities.
For SIPAGulayan Pagsanjan, participation in OUgnayan Wednesdays has been a rewarding experience. He expressed gratitude to UPOU, noting that the initiative has provided not only economic opportunities but also a sense of accomplishment through collective effort and collaboration.
Jeyana’s Fresh Eggs appreciate being welcomed into the community, noting the opportunity has been valuable for their small business.
Dr. Ferdinand Maquito discusses the Alitaptap Community Currency.
The anniversary program also featured a presentation by Dr. Ferdinand Maquito on the Alitaptap Community Currency, where he explained how community currencies can facilitate exchanges of goods and services among members while strengthening local economies and social connections.
Mr. Emil of SIPAG Pagsanjan delivers his closing remarks.
The celebration concluded with closing remarks from Mr. Emilio Climaco, President of SIPAG Pagsanjan, who thanked UPOU, fellow merchants, organizers, and supporters for contributing to the continued success of OUgnayan Wednesdays over the past year.
UPOU Community with the OUgnayan merchant during the photo opportunity.
The initiative continues to serve as a testament to the power of community-driven collaboration, providing a space where relationships are strengthened, local enterprises are supported, and opportunities for meaningful engagement continue to flourish.
Written by Marinela Hernandez | Edited by Primo Garcia | Photos by Dianne Cosinas
