The University of the Philippines Open University (UPOU) marked its 31st founding anniversary with a week-long celebration from 23 to 27 February 2026 at its headquarters in Los Baños, Laguna. The event brought together students, faculty, staff, and partners in activities highlighting innovation, quality education, sustainability, and well-being.
UPOU faculty and staff members enjoy educational games at the EduPerya 2026. (Photo by UPOU Office of Public Affairs)
The celebration opened with EduPerya 2026, organized by the Faculty of Education, which welcomed teachers and students from across Laguna. The interactive fair transformed academic concepts into hands-on activities, showcasing more engaging and inclusive approaches to learning.
Dr. Maranan shares about one of the research labs of FICS, Creative Systems & Futures Studio. (Photo by UPOU Office of Public Affairs)
Research and innovation took center stage through HABI @ FICS, an exhibit by the Faculty of Information and Communication Studies. Held at the WC Multimedia Production Building, the showcase featured interdisciplinary initiatives integrating information, communication, creativity, and data—demonstrating pathways toward digital and knowledge-driven futures.
UPOU Chancellor, Dr. Joane V. Serrano (center, in black top), led her cabinet members in a UPOU Sustainability pledge of Commitment. (Photo by UPOU Office of Public Affairs)
Sustainability efforts were highlighted through a university-wide pledge and the conduct of a Waste Assessment Characterization Study (WACS), which reinforces UPOU’s transition toward a zero-waste and healthier campus.
UPOU Chancellor Joane V. Serrano and Ms. Wilma Dumayas, LBHSI President (center), led the opening of the 55th Flower and Garden Show. (Photo by UPOU Office of Public Affairs)
On 26 February, UPOU, through the Faculty of Management and Development Studies (FMDS) and in partnership with the Los Baños Horticulture Society, inaugurated the 55th Flower and Garden Show. The exhibit featured ornamental plants, gardening essentials, and local products, promoting environmental appreciation and community collaboration.
Chancellor Serrano awards Dr. Urooj Malik a token of appreciation. (Photo by UPOU Office of Public Affairs)
The same day, FMDS and University Canada West hosted a Lecture-Workshop on Financing Sustainability, where Dr. Urooj Malik shared global perspectives on sustainable finance. It formed part of UPOU’s ongoing international engagement on sustainability.
Campus developments were also unveiled, including the Chancellor’s Suite, a new space for meetings and partnerships, and a Free Roaming Dog Shelter. These spaces reflect the University’s commitment to both community and animal welfare.
UPOU faculty and staff at the International Convention Center during the launch of the MCDR program. (Photo by UPOU Office of Public Affairs)
During the Anniversary Program, UPOU launched key academic and institutional initiatives. These included the Master of Climate and Disaster Resilience (MCDR), a fully online graduate program developed with the UP Resilience Institute and set to be offered in AY 2026–2027. In addition to this are the launch of the UPOU Database, RFID Entry system for UPOU buildings and the UPOU ODeL Program for Third Agers, led by UPOU former Chancellor Melinda Bandalaria.
L-R: CODTL-EMP Deputy Director Benigno Agapito, Jr., Chancellor Serrano and CODTL Director Juvy Gervacio led the ceremonial launch of CODTL’s programs. (Photo by UPOU Office of Public Affairs)
The Center for Open and Digital Teaching and Learning (CODTL) marked its 3rd anniversary alongside its formal inauguration. New initiatives introduced included the Center for Digital and Open Distance eLearning (CD4ODeL), an IJODEL Special Issue, and the revamped UPOU Networks, all aimed at strengthening collaboration and digital learning ecosystems.
UPOU also recognized the dedication of its personnel through Service Awards and the Gawad Chancellor Awards, honoring faculty and staff for their years of service and outstanding contributions. Awardees included five-year awardees Ria Valerie D. Cabanes, Justin A. Tolentino, Arnold E. Patropis, and Harold V. Mangubat; ten-year awardees Phoebe Grace D. Alcazar, Myra C. Almodiel, and Reinald Adrian DL. Pugoy, and Merry Grace B. Rempillo; fifteen-year awardees Rita C. Ramos, Ma. Sarah Q. Cabungcal and Anna Ma. Elizabeth F. Cañas-Llamas; twenty-year awardee Allan S. Nuñez; twenty-five-year awardee Celestino D. Quiña, Jr.; and thirty-year awardees Allan B. Pamulaklakin, Erlinda M. Manarin, Joane V. Serrano, Cecilia G. Santiago, Elvy A. Pamulaklakin, Jay V. Aldemita, and Amalia G. Perez.
L-R: Vice Chancellor Saludadez, Vice Chancellor Lacaste, and Chancellor Serrano (rightmost), with the Gawad Chancellor Awardees — Ms. Pamulaklakin, Dr. Pugoy, Mr. Melodillar, Ms. Bagos. (Photo by UPOU Office of Public Affairs)
Outstanding performance was also recognized through the Gawad Chancellor Awards, which were given to Assoc. Prof. Reinald Adrian Pugoy (Faculty), Ms. Jelaine Bagos (REPS), Ms. Rhodora Pamulaklakin (Admin 2nd Level), and Mr. Alex Melodillar (Admin 1st Level).
(L-R, 4th onward) Asst. Prof. Ria Valerie Cabanes, Director of the UPOU Quality Assurance Office (QAO), with Prof. Jean Saludadez, UPOU Vice Chancellor for Finance and Administration; Prof. Joane Serrano, UPOU Chancellor; Prof. Alyssa Peleo-Alampay, Assistant Vice President for Academic Affairs (Quality Assurance) of the UP System; and Assoc. Prof. Aurora Lacaste, UPOU Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs, during the QA Launch: TalaQAyan 2025 and the Display of UP and UPOU Quality Policies.
Before the program ended, the Quality Assurance Office (QAO) launched TalaQAyan 2025, a data-driven report on institutional performance, alongside a public display of UP and UPOU Quality Policies. The event also introduced the UP Open University Journal of Quality Assurance (UPOUJQA) and featured an interactive QA Booth to engage the community.
UPOU faculty and staff members join the anniversary fun run around the UPOU campus. (Photo by Gerard Evangelista)
The celebration concluded with the “Move as One @31” Anniversary Run, promoting health, wellness, and camaraderie among faculty and staff.
Now in its 31st year, UPOU continues to expand access to open and distance learning while strengthening research, sustainability initiatives, and public service—reflecting a university community actively shaping the future of education.
Written by Ryzza Alyana B. Legaspi | Edited by Primo G. Garcia and Anna Cañas-Llamas | Photos by the Office of Public Affairs and Gerald Evangelista
