OVCAA Hosts Orientation for New Faculty Members

The University of the Philippines Open University (UPOU) through the Office of the Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs (OVCAA) hosted a hybrid orientation to welcome its new faculty members last  25 September 2024, at the AVR, UPOU Headquarters.

The orientation was held to introduce the new faculty members to the values of the University and their roles and duties. The orientation offered a thorough overview of faculty responsibilities, key administrative matters, and the faculty dashboard, a microsite that houses relevant information and resources for UPOU faculty members.

The event began with welcoming greetings from Dr. Melinda dP. Bandalaria, UPOU Chancellor, enjoining the new faculty members in taking part in the realization of UPOU’s aspirations.    

Following this, the eight  (8) new faculty members introduced themselves. Mr. Lexter Mangubat, aProf. Hannah May Rosario, and aProf. Joseph De Mesa were the new faculty member of the Faculty of Education (FEd). For the Faculty of Information and Communication Studies (FICS), aProf. Katrina Joy Abriol-Santos, aProf. Benigno Agapito, aProf. Mary Kristene Clariño, and aProf. Margaret Suarez were the new faculty members. Lastly, aProf. Tricia Ascan was the new faculty member of the Faculty of Management and Development Studies (FMDS).  

Before the speakers of the event delved into their presentations, a short AVP introducing UPOU, its mission, vision, and goals was presented. Dr. Aurora V. Lacaste, A2VCAA for Instruction, addressed key instructional and administrative concerns, while Dr. Myra D. Oruga discussed the University’s research matters. Dr. Finaflor F. Taylan, PDA for Extension/OGC Director, then highlighted public service duties as a faculty member. Lastly, Mr. Michael P. Lagaya, Chief Administrative Officer, provided insights on matters concerning Human Resources (HR). To signify their dedication in committing to their duties, the new faculty members took an oath of office. The orientation then transitioned into an open forum, allowing attendees to voice their concerns and questions.

Dr. Primo G. Garcia, Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs, walked the faculty members through the updated faculty dashboard. From the UPOU landscape and concepts regarding Open and Distance e-Learning as a worldview to helpful links to University policies and procedures, the faculty dashboard provides an accessible array of useful information. 

The event concluded with the awarding of certificates of appreciation, presented by Chancellor Bandalaria and VC Garcia. Dr. Garcia delivered the closing remarks, wrapping up a productive session aimed at fostering collaboration and growth within the University community.

Written by Alexil Cheska Fajardo and Danica Salcedo ♦ Edited by Yasele Irene Angela Yambao ♦ Contributed by OVCAA

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UPOU partners with the DHSUD through the MOU signing to strengthen capacity-building for planners and technical staff across the country.INPHOTOS: The MOU, signed during the Planners’ Network Launch on September 10, 2025 in Quezon City, formalizes a partnership to develop and deliver Microcredentials, Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCs), and Continuing Education Programs (CEP) on topics related to housing, human settlements, and urban development.Representing UPOU as signatory was Chancellor Dr. Joane V. Serrano, with Dean Dr. Finaflor Taylan serving as witness.Through this collaboration, UPOU’s innovative open and distance e-learning platforms, MODeL and ASCEND, will serve as avenues for professional growth, lifelong learning, and knowledge-sharing — empowering Local Government Units (LGUs), urban planners, and other key stakeholders to build sustainable, resilient, and inclusive communities.Together with DHSUD, UPOU reaffirms its commitment to making quality education accessible and impactful — shaping the future of urban planning and development in the Philippines.#UPOU #DHSUD #PLANADO #PlannersNetwork #OpenDistanceELearning #SustainableCommunities #CapacityBuilding ... See MoreSee Less
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