The OBSERVER Volume 2, Issue 2, February 2013 The Official Publication of the Polytechnic University of the Philippines
Dec 01, 2015
The
OBSERVERVolume 2, Issue 2, February 2013 The Official Publication of the Polytechnic University of the Philippines
Editorial Board
Inside This Issue
The PUP Observer is a collaborative output of the
Publications Of!ice and the
Communication Management Of!ice
COVER STORIES
3 38,338 Hopefuls Take PUPCET 2013
4 OVPSS Upholds Implementa!on of Ci!zens’ Charter
5 CMO-PUP Spearheads Waste Audit
6 “Rehabilita!on of physical facili!es of the University, on target”
— PPDO
ACADEMIC ACHIEVEMENTS
7 PUP Bataan BSA Students Win the 21st Philippine Sta!s!cs Quiz
— Provincial Elimina!on
7 CS Studes Win 2nd in Qwizzardy Compe!!on
8 CAL Faculty Takes Home UP Award
8 PUPSMBC Stude Wins Flair Compe!!on
9 PUP Wins Big at YMCA Congress
9 PUP Psych Team Grabs 4th Place in PAPJA 2013
UNIVERSITY HIGHLIGHTS
10 PUP Spearheads the Na!on’s Celebra!on of the Na!onal Arts
Month
11 CHED Backs PUP Center for Crea!ve Wri!ng’s Mul!media
Workshop
11 NASAC 12th Trisectoral Congress Held at PUP
12 PUP Partakes in PASUC-NCR 2013 Na!onal Higher Educa!on
Research Forum
12 PUP Hosts PAFTE-NCR Teacher Educa!on Research Forum
13 PUP Joins Country and the World in ONE BILLION RISING
Campaign
14 PUP A"ends AACCUP 26th Annual Na!onal Conference, Dr. Ruiz
Takes a Seat on the Board
NEWS BITS
15 CCIS-DCS Par!cipates in the 2013 ICICN Singapore
15 CoEd and TOP Sponsor K to 12 Seminar
16 College of Computer and Informa!on Sciences Celebrates 27th
Founding Year
16 IRR for Psychology Board Exams Released
17 Ins!tute of Tech Alumni Work for Science Exhibit
18 Seminar on Copyrigh!ng Works for Educa!on and Research Held
18 PUP Medical Services Marks Na!onal Cancer Awareness Month
19 ITech Educators Judge STEP’s Division Skills Development
Compe!!on
19 PUP Bataan Holds Research Seminar-Writeshop
20 PUP Bataan Organizes Journalism and Radio Broadcas!ng
Seminar-Workshop
21 PUP Maragandon Celebrates 26th Founding Anniversary in “Wider
Dimensions and Brigther Horizons”
21 PUP-Maragondon Receives Buildings from Remulla and Cayetano
FEATURE STORY
22 Melba D. Abaleta’s Half-Century Affinity with PUP
Angelina E. BoricanAnna Ruby P. Gapasin
Manuel M. MuhiCONSULTANTS
Ma. Junithesmer D. RosalesEDITOR-IN-CHIEF
Kriztine R. VirayASSOCIATE EDITOR
Rafael Michael O. PazMANAGING EDITOR
Dan Esponilla DalacPrestoline Suyat
WRITERS
Jose M. AbatFlordeliza E. AlvendiaEdna Tormon-Bernabe
Juan C. BirionRomeo G. Castro
Dennis O. DumriqueMark Flores
Marvin Rey G. GarciaAgnes Y. Gonzaga
Michael Angelo JugadoRudolf Anthony A. Lacerna
Edgardo A. LatozaAriane Marie A. Leyte
Rolando P. Quiñones, Jr.Melvin C. Roxas
Lenis Aislinn C. SeparaCONTRIBUTORS
Christine Joyce S. BautistaEnrique C. Delgado
Jesusana S. DejitoLAYOUT ARTISTS
Roy Mark B. GerezHector B. Calma
James Brian K. OnaPHOTOGRAPHERS
Israel D. BalignasayEllen Grace Fallarcuna
PRODUCTION STAFF
The
OBSERVERVolume 2, Issue 2, February 2013
3
Cover Story
Volume 2, Issue 2|
38,338 Hopefuls Take
PUPCET 2013 Juan C. Birion / Edgardo A. Latoza
A total of 38,338 high school
graduating student-hopefuls
took the Polytechnic University
of the Philippines College Entrance
Test (PUPCET) in PUP Main vying for
slots in the Academic Year 2013-2014.
The first batch of examinees hurdled
the PUPCET on January 27 while the
second batch took their exams on
February 17. The Admission Services
announced the holding of PUPCET
in PUP’s 21 campuses and branches
across Luzon starting March of this
year.
The examination schedules in
the PUP campuses and branches
together with the number of expected
applicants are as follows: March 3 –
PUP Taguig (3,000); March 24 - PUP
San Pedro (1,000); March 10 - PUP
Sto. Tomas (3,000); March 24 - PUP
Sta Maria (1,500) and PUP Mulanay
(700); March 17 - General Luna (300);
March 18 - PUP Unisan (500); March
23 - PUP Ragay (1,000); April 6 - PUP
Sta. Rosa (2,500) and PUP Bansud
(400); April 7 - PUP San Juan (500);
April 14 - PUP Quezon City (more than
2,000) and PUP Bataan (2,400); April
21 - PUP Lopez (1,800); April 28 - PUP
Sablayan (600) and PUP Maragondon
(2,000); May 11 - PUP Cabiao (400);
May 18 - PUP Pulilan (400); May 19 -
PUP Calauan (700) and Biñan (2,000);
and, May 26 - PUP Paranaque (500).
Passing the PUPCET is an integral
requirement to make it to PUP, hence,
examinees should obtain scores that
will meet the cut-off mark set for the
upcoming school year.
This year’s revised “iApply” system
was expected to encourage more
talented candidates all over the country
to take the PUPCET since they do
not have to show up physically, skip
classes, or spend too much money
to travel to the Main Campus. The
Office of the Vice President for Student
Services headed by Vice President
Juan C. Birion, through its Admission
Services coordination with Dr. Marlon
M. Lim, Director of the Information
and Communications Technology
Center, and the officials and staff of
the Guidance, Counseling and Testing
Services, was indeed successful,
based on the number of examinees who
enlisted themselves in the “iApply”.
The new system requires applicants
to simply upload their pictures as part
of the registration procedure; payments
are made through the Landbank of the
Philippines; five working days after,
electronic copies of their ePermit are
sent to their registered electronic
mail addresses. Master lists issued to
examiners include the pictures of the
applicants for verification. Examinees
simply bring with them their school
Identification Cards or any other valid ID
in case they are not currently enrolled
or have lost their high school IDs. To
standardize the system, Vice President
for Branches and Campuses Joseph
Mercado will also adopt the same
system of application of PUPCET in the
PUP branches and campuses.
While PUP provides quality
college education accessible to most
Filipinos, it also gives special attention
to elementary school graduates
entering the secondary level. The PUP
Laboratory High School conducted its
entrance examinations for applicants
who came from different schools on
February 10 with 1,220 applicants.
The PUPCET and PULHSEE
results will be released on March 15,
2013 in the PUP website. n
Cover Story
| The Observer4
OVPSS Upholds Implementation
of Citizens’ Charter
A workshop on the review of charters under various
units was facilitated by the Office of the Vice
President for Student Services on January 15, 2013.
The activity, led by Vice President for Student Services Dr.
Juan C. Birion, aimed at reviewing Republic Act No. 9485
“The Anti-Red Tape Act”. Rule IV of the Implementing Rules
and Regulations of the Act underscores the implementation
of a Citizens’ Charter (CC) to ensure the provision of the
best services to the stakeholders for their total development
in preparation for their activities and adjustments to the
University life.
The CC contains procedures in securing the services
needed, as well as the process in filing complaints when
necessary. The CC is now available in the PUP website.
Meanwhile, the topics discussed and persons-in-charge
in the workshop were: Accounting Services for Students
— Director Helen R. Alcantara; Food Services — Chief
Josephine N. Flores; Housing Services — Director Adriano
A. Salvador; International Student Services — Director Ma.
VP Birion with the OVPSS and its offices/units, and ancillary services officials and staff during the Workshop on Ci!zen’s Charter.
Teresa C. Villar; Medical and Dental Services — Dr. Helen
P. Almirante with Dr. Yanes, University Physician and Dr.
Jamandre, University Dentist; Multi-faith Services — Dr.
Flordeliza E. Alvendia; and, Safety and Security Services —
Chief Valentin T. Espina.
The Directors and Chiefs of the different offices made
their specific CC and presented it to the body. Their
presentation included their office’s description, name and
description of the services they render to the stakeholders,
fees, steps to follow and total processing time of services,
location of the office, and feedback mechanisms.
In his closing remarks, Assistant to the Vice President
for Student Services Dr. Edgardo A. Latoza synthesized
the outputs and emphasized the important role each office
will play in the realization of the goal of the University, in
particular, and the government, in general; that is, the
provision of quality services to the stakeholders in an
epistemic community. n
(JCB/EAL)
5
Cover Story
Volume 2, Issue 2|
Aware of the crusade for the protection of the
environment, around 500 student-volunteers from 12
colleges of the Polytechnic University of the Philippines
collected almost a hundred large bags of garbage in the first-
ever Waste Audit launched by the task force led by the Office
of the Vice President for Administration, Communication
Management Office, National Service Training Program
Office, Sports Development Office, Campus Development
and Maintenance Office, Medical Services, General
Services Office, Safety and Security Services, and the non-
government group Eco-Waste Coalition.
The January 31 environmental activity at the Mabini
Campus in Sta. Mesa, Manila focused on the collection and
segregation of assorted campus trash comprised mostly of
styro foam packs, disposable utensils, and plastic bags.
Erick John Evangelista from BSA I-36, a volunteer
assigned to round up the garbage around the school felt
the significance of what he did, “Kasi nakikita naman natin
talaga ‘na ‘yung mundo natin talagang endangered na. Itong
segregation pa lang, isang malaking tulong na ‘to para iligtas
‘yung Mother Earth natin sa kapahamakan… para maiwasan
na rin natin ‘yung mga floods.”
Francis Chiuco from BBRC IV-1D further commented
that there must be something each one of the PUPian’s can
do to in their own little ways to influence others to change.
He said, “I feel na this is a good start for us kasi by this, I feel
na maaring maapektuhan ang mga students kasi pwede sila
matutong magsegregate. Nakikita naman nila, kasi basura
din natin ‘to.”n
Dan Esponilla Dalac with Ariane Marie A. Leyte
CMO-PUP Spearheads Waste Audit
Cover Story
| The Observer6
“Rehabilitation of physical facilities
of the University, on target” — PPDO
Assistant to the Vice President for Administration
Larry M. Alfonso, together with the deans of different
colleges, led the ocular inspection of the newly-
renovated and refurbished classrooms on the 6th Floor of
the Main Building on January 24. The ocular inspection was
part of the Office of the Vice President for Administration’s
plan to solicit observations, comments, and suggestions on
how to renovate and improve the physical facilities of the
University.
It can be remembered that University President
Emanuel C. De Guzman announced last December, during
the flag raising ceremony that classroom rehabilitation and
renovation of other physical facilities of the University will
finally push through.
Meanwhile, Architect Sherwin Nieva of the Physical
Planning and Development Office (PPDO) announced that
the rehabilitation of physical facilities in the University is right
on target.
According to Architect Nieva, about 40 to 45% of
classroom rehabilitation in the Main Building is complete.
Aside from the classrooms, they also included the
improvement and refurbishment of faculty rooms and small
libraries, as well as the repair and maintenance of comfort
rooms.
On the other hand, the rehabilitation of the Andres
Bonifacio Hall, Alex Marteja Hall (above the Sampaguita
Canteen), and comfort rooms between the Sampaguita
Canteen and Charlie Del Rosario Building as of December 28
is 39.12% complete. More so, about 40% of the rehabilitation
and repair of the track oval, swimming pool, tennis court, and
fountain was recorded by the PPDO since January 2013.
The University is targeting a rubberized, tartan-made track
oval before the year ends.
PUP Lopez, Quezon’s Gymnasium is also about 55 to
60% repaired and rehabilitated.
Architect Nieva disclosed that the target date for the
completion of the renovation of the PUP Lopez Gymnasium
is on February 25. The Main Building is scheduled to be
finished by June 25 or after the opening of classes in the
First Semester of the School Year 2013-2014. Students and
other members of the academic community should expect
a renovated Alex Marteja Hall and comfort rooms near the
Sampaguita Canteen this March 27. n
(Prestoline S. Suyat)
Newly renovated and repainted classrooms,
comfort rooms, and hallways.
7
Academic Achievements
Volume 2, Issue 2|
CS Studes Win 2nd in Qwizzardy Competition
Romeo G. Castro
Jocel Bartolay, Vince St. Mesias, and Mark Joseph
Batas from the Polytechnic University of the Philippines-
College of Science went home victorious as they dominate
the Qwizzardy Competition held at the University of the
Philippines-Manila on January 30. This year’s competition
has the theme “Beauty and Mathness”. It was participated
by several schools including the University of Santo Tomas,
University of the East, Pamantasan ng Lungson ng Maynila,
among others. The competition aimed to develop and harness
students’ abilities in the fields of mathematics, science, and
general information.
”Fortunately after facing those tough and tricky questions
from [the] different fields, we are very proud to say that we
made it to the top,” the PUP team quipped. “…Two teams,
UST and PUP got the same score in the final round of the
competition. A clincher which involved a set of five questions
from different categories with random difficulties was needed.
The team who had the best score out of the five questions
was announced as the winner,” the PUP team added.
The Qwizzardy 2013 ended with UST as the Champion,
PUP in 2nd Place, and UE in 3rd Place. n
In this photo: (from le%) Mr. Catalig M.Sc., the chairman of Qwizzardy
with Vince St. Mesias, Jocel Bartolay, Mark Joseph Batas
and a Facilitator from UP Manila.
PUP Bataan BSA Students Win 21st Philippine Statistics Quiz
— Provincial Elimination
Lenis Aislinn C. Separa
Kerry Christian Aglinao, a first year Bachelor
of Science in Accountancy (BSA) student of the
Polytechnic University of the Philippines Bataan
Branch grabbed the top rank among six winners of the
21st Philippine Statistics Quiz—Provincial Elimination
sponsored by the National Statistics Office and the
Philippine Statistical Association, Inc. Together with
five other winners are also two freshman BSA students
of PUP Bataan — Angela Arrieta and Trixia Anne. The
other three students who made it to the elimination
are from Bataan Peninsula State University (BPSU),
STI, and Maritime Academy of the Asia and the Pacific
(MAAP).
The contest was conducted at the BPSU Main
Campus in Balanga, Bataan on November 14, 2012
The winners received a medal, a certificate, and a cash
prize of P1,000 each. The PUP representatives were
trained and coached by Prof. Ligaya S. Vinteres. n
Academic Achievements
| The Observer8
CAL Faculty Takes Home UP Award
Newly-established College of Arts and Letters,
Polytechnic University of the Philippines, takes pride in an
award conferred to one of its youngest faculty members in
the Kagawaran ng Filipinolohiya, Mr. Romeo P. Peña. The
Outstanding Student for Exemplary Achievements in National
and International Competitions under the “Parangal sa Mag-
aaral Category” was awarded to Peña on February 19 in the
Cine Adarna, UP Film Center, University of the Philippines-
Diliman where he is currently finishing his Master of Arts in
Creative Writing.
Peña has received various national and international
awards including the Filipino Migration to Hawaii Centennial
Literary Prize in 2006, UNESCO and Goi Peace Foundation of
Tokyo, Japan International Writing Contest for Young People
in 2007, Gawad Komisyon sa Sanaysay ng Komisyon sa
Wikang Filipino 2010 and 2012, and the National Bookstore
Writing Contest in 2006. He has published fiction, poetry,
and different articles in the FATAQ-Tanglaw Journal based in
Australia, and in many other literary folios and magazines. He
is currently the President of the Philippine Society of Young
Educators of Languages and the Arts (PSYELA), Inc.n
(Rafael Michael O. Paz)
PUPSMBC Stude Wins Flair Competition
Joe Mari “Jom” Castillo, a senior Bachelor of Science
in Hotel and Restaurant Management student of the
Polytechnic University of the Philippines Santa Maria,
Bulacan Campus was awarded Champion in the 4th Manila
Flair Open 2012. The competition was held at the World
Trade Center, Manila on December 21, 2012.
The Manila Flair is a bartending competition joined by
bartending professionals and enthusiasts. Each contestant
was given only seven minutes to showcase their flairing
and cocktails mixing skills in the competition.
Castillo won over 21 participants from various schools, hotels, and restaurants that joined the “battle of the bottles,”
He received Php10,000.00 cash prize and a trophy. Castillo was also declared Champion at the UFC (Utimate Flair
Champion) held at the SMX Convention Center in May 2012. Before he graduates this year, Castillo is eyeing to win
the GSM Flair Idol, a nationwide competition to be held sometime in February 2013. PUPSMBC Director Lualhati Dela
Cruz expressed her confidence that Castillo will win again. n
(Jose M. Abat)
Cas!llo proudly receives his plaque and championship trophy
9
Academic Achievements
Volume 2, Issue 2|
PUP Psych Team Grabs 4th Place in PAPJA 2013
A team of students from the College of Social
Sciences and Development, Department of Psychology
placed 4th in the Psychology Quiz Challenge in the 26th
Annual Convention of the Psychological Association
of the Philippines Junior Affiliates (PAPJA) held at the
SMX Convention Center, SM Mall of Asia on January
18. This year’s theme revolved on “Building Hope
and Resilience”. The event aimed to showcase the
intellectual abilities of psychology students as well as to
empower them to triumph the obstacles in their chosen
field of study.
Mary Anne Portuguez, Ariel Ramirez, Jiezel Umali,
and Jan Erron Celebrado with their coach, Dr. Flordeliza
E. Alvendia, faced 143 universities and colleges all
over the country. University of Santo Tomas got the 1st
place, Far Eastern University on 2nd, and University of
the Philippines-Tacloban Campus on 3rd place. Other
universities that participated include St Louis University-
Baguio, Holy Angels University-Angeles, Pampanga,
Ateneo de Manila University, De La Salle Main Campus,
and Centro Escolar University-Mendiola. PUP is the
only State University in the National Capital Region that
made it to the top ten. n
Flordeliza E. Alvendia
PUP Wins Big at YMCA Congress Mark Flores
The PUP College-Y Club won big at the 37th Young
Men’s Christian Association (YMCA) National Congress of
College Students and 17th YMCA National Campus Advisers
Seminar-Workshop. The event themed “Kabataan: Pinoy Ka
Ba?” was held at the Senior Mess, Teacher’s Camp, Baguio
City, from December 5 to 9, 2012. It was attended by 230
participants from different colleges and universities around
the country, with 14 delegates coming from the Polytechnic
University of the Philippines.
The PUP delegation was composed of ten students:
Ralph Christopher Soneja, Jefferson Mendez, Jayson
Jimenez, Paula Camille Escamis, Juhairin Laguindab, Mark
Jason Flores, Nicolas Guillano Calpito, Jeric Palada, Zer
Jeuz Sim, Ma. Nieva Fatima Domingo, and Angeline Atol as
well as advisers Dr. Armando A. Torres, Mr. Robertito Roque,
Ms. Ann Clarisse C. Marzan, and Ms. Jonna Karla Bien.
During the event’s awarding ceremonies, Escamis, 3rd
year Bachelor in Broadcast Communication student, was
prized with the Outstanding Delegate Award. Meanwhile,
Jimenez, 4th year AB Philosophy student, won 1st prize in the
extemporaneous speaking contest. He was also recognized
for his definitive role as the Speaker of the House at the
Congress Plenary Session.
The PUP delegation was thus awarded the Outstanding
Delegation Award for their robust participation in the
Congress. n
University Highlights
| The Observer10
Rolando P. Quiñones, Jr. with Rafael Michael O. Paz
The largest state university in
the country, Polytechnic University
of the Philippines, launched the
local celebration of the National Arts
Month through music and cultural
presentations at the PUP Freedom
Park. The February 1 opening event
started with a parade of students and
faculty members from the College of
Arts and Letters (CAL), College of
Social Sciences and Development
(CSSD), Graduate School (GS), and
representatives from the University
Center for Culture and the Arts (UCCA)
crooned by the well-acclaimed PUP
Banda Kawayan. This year’s theme
“Celebrating Icons” aims to showcase
the Filipino identity that can be traced
through songs, dances, and other
cultural activities.
With a program held at the Freedom
Plaza, newly-installed Dean of CAL,
Dr. Josefina U. Parentela, inspired
the audience through her message,
“February may be the shortest month
of the year but expect it to be brimming
with wonderful happenings through the
Philippine Arts festival.”
Executive Vice President
Dr. Victoria C. Naval, CSSD
Dean Dr. Nenita F. Buan, GS
Dean Dr. Danilo T. Reyes, and
UCCA Director Dr. Segundo
C. Dizon graced the event.
The Opening Program was
organized in cooperation with
the Office of the Vice President
for Academic Affairs and the
Office of the Vice President
for Student Services. Cultural
presentations from various
PUP student organizations
like Tulos Baybay, Dulaang
SuhayFil, PUP Yoga Club,
Bagong Himig Serenata,
Maharlika Dance Artists, and
Contemporary Dimensions
were rendered.
This year’s celebration
highlights the much-awaited
NCR 7th Tanghal: National
Universities and Colleges
Theater Festival and
Conference in which theater
groups from different Universities in
the National Capital Region performed
PUP Spearheads the Nation’s Celebration
of the National Arts Month
their most applauded performances in
PUP. n
11
University Highlights
Volume 2, Issue 2 |
CHED Backs PUP Center for Creative Writing’s
Multimedia Workshop
The first-ever creative writing and
multimedia workshop conducted by
the newly established Polytechnic
University of the Philippines Center
for Creative Writing has obtained
endorsement from the Commission
on Higher Education according to the
young head of the center.
CCW Chief Prof. Merdeka C.
Morales said that CHED Chairperson
Dr. Patricia B. Licuanan issued a
Memorandum on January 29 enjoining
support for the workshop held every
Monday afternoon at the Charlie del
Rosario Hall in PUP.
The activity intends “to give voice to
those who are located in the margins”
whom some theoreticians have
branded as “incapable of speaking for
themselves,” Prof. Morales quoted Dr.
Licuanan.
Dr. Licuanan enjoined all heads
of public and private higher education
institutions to let their officials,
employees, and students participate in
the workshop facilitated by acclaimed
writer and artist Prof. Pedro Jun Cruz-
Reyes, Jr.
Prof. Cruz-Reyes assists the CCW
in his capacity as Consultant on Cultural
Affairs to PUP President Dr. Emanuel
C. De Guzman.
Meanwhile, interested individuals
who wish to join the second batch of
the CCW workshop which will start
in June and end in October may now
submit their application.
Prof. Morales disclosed that the
CCW is pleased with the support shown
by Dr. De Guzman. He noted that the
country’s largest state university –
home for a long time to literary giants
Rogelio L. Ordoñez, Ave Perez Jacob,
Bayani S. Abadilla, Rustica C. Carpio,
Dominador B. Mirasol, Cesario Y.
Torres, Gandhi G. Cardenas, Alfredo
O. Cuenca, Jr., Edel E. Garcellano,
Domingo C. De Guzman, and Cruz-
Reyes, to name a few – is fortunate
that the new administration’s quest
to transform PUP into an epistemic
community also promotes the
development of progressive literature
and creative arts. n
(DAN ESPONILLA DALAC)
NASAC 12th Trisectoral Congress Held at PUPAround three hundred civil,
religious, and private sector leaders
attended the National Social Action
Council (NASAC) 12th Trisectoral
Congress held on February 8 at the
country’s largest state university.
NASAC leaders who represented
over a hundred government
institutions and non-government
organizations convened at the Manila
Room of the PUP Hasmin Hostel
under the theme “NASAC and the
Challenges of the Times.”
An umbrella formation established
in 1969, NASAC is a consultative
body which promotes the “social,
economic and spiritual development”
of Filipinos through trisectoralism and
voluntarism.
Ecumenical figures like Sr. Eva
Fidela Maamo (Roman Catholic Church),
Bishop Pedro T. Maglaya, Jr. (United
Church of Christ in the Philippines),
and Patriarch John Florentine L.
Teruel (Apostolic Catholic Church)
were among the NASAC officials who
mingled with Director General Jose Mari
M. Oquiñena (Philippine Information
Agency), Undersecretary Rommel L.
Garcia (Dangerous Drugs Board), Dir.
Antonio C. Cintura (Bangko Sentral ng
Pilipinas), Chairman Leon G. Flores
(National Youth Commission), Gov.
Corazon Alma G. De Leon (Philippine
National Red Cross), Director Ma. Luisa
Agamata (Civil Service Commission),
Rep. Imelda Romualdez-Marcos
(Congress of the Philippines), amongst
other civil personalities.
Polytechnic University of the
Philippines President Dr. Emanuel C.
De Guzman, who was represented
by Executive Vice President Dr.
Victoria C. Naval, mentioned in his
message that NASAC’s composition
“augurs well of the peaceable
spirit, goodwill, and tolerance that
lead to revolutionary change”. Dr.
De Guzman also promised that
NASAC can always rely on the
PUP community to effect the social
transformation needed by the Filipino
people.
PUP Communication Management
Office Director Dr. Anna Ruby P.
Gapasin and PUP Student Services
Director Dr. Armando Torres served
as masters of ceremonies in the day-
long event which also featured the
PUP Banda Kawayan, PUP Bagong
Himig Serenata, and the PUP ROTC
Model Cadets. n (ded)
University Highlights
| The Observer12
PUP Hosts PAFTE-NCR Teacher Education Research ForumMichael Angelo Jugado
PUP Partakes in PASUC-NCR 2013
National Higher Education Research Forum Angelina E. Borican
The Philippine Association of State
Universities and Colleges-National
Capital Region (PASUC-NCR), with
its seven-member SUCs, jointly held a
research forum last February 13 and 14
at the Philippine Normal University. The
forum covered research undertakings
in teacher education/basic education,
engineering and technology, science
and mathematics, and social sciences,
business and policy research.
The Polytechnic University of the
Philippines, through the Office of the
Vice President for Research, Extension,
Planning and Development (OVPREPD),
actively participated in the said forum
and chaired several working committees:
review and screening of papers for Area
4 (social sciences, business and policy
research); documentation, and poster
exhibit. The University also took charge in
facilitating the parallel sessions in Area 4.
There were a total of 11 paper
presentations by faculty members from the
different colleges, research centers, and
campuses in PUP while 14 abstracts were
included for poster presentations.
Among the paper and poster presenters
in the two-day forum were:
1. Prof. Jacky Boy E. Atienza
2. Dr. Racidon P. Bernarte
3. Dr. Angelina E. Borican
4. Prof. Oscar M. Bumanglang
5. Prof. Liwayway Memije-Cruz
6. Prof. Zandro Estella
7. Dr. Marissa B. Ferrer
8. Prof. Rolan J. Malvar
9. Dr. Divina T. Pasumbal
10. Prof. Virgilio A. Rivas
11. Prof. Hilda Felipe-San Gabriel
12. Prof. Gecille C. Almiranez
13. Dr. Lourdes Alvarez
14. Prof. Jeffrey Bartilet
15. Dr. Edna T. Bernabe
16. Prof. Marc de Guzman Garvida
17. Dr. Rovelina B. Jacolbia
18. Prof. Ruthela P. Payawal
19. Prof. Cherry C. Pebre
20. Prof. Aurea Rosal
21. Dr. Ma. Junithesmer D. Rosales
22. Prof. John Patrick Sta. Maria
The two-day event successfully
gathered researchers from other regions
in the country. PASUC-NCR intends to
hold this activity on a regular basis as
part of its commitment to promote and
support faculty research undertakings. n
More than 1,000 students from different
colleges and universities in the region
attended the Philippine Association for
Teacher Education-National Capital Region
(PAFTE-NCR) Teacher Education Research
Forum held at the Bulwagang Balagtas,
Polytechnic University of the Philippines on
February 14.
Themed “The Architecture of
Assessing Learning Under the K to 12
Curriculum”, the seminar was hosted by
PUP through the Department of Elementary
and Secondary Education (DESED)
Chairperson Dr. Ma. Junithesmer D.
Rosales who is also a board member of the
PAFTE-NCR Chapter.
The schools that joined in the said
seminar include: PUP-Manila, PUP-
Laboratory High School, PUP Taguig, PUP
Bataan, PUP Camarines Sur, Our Lady
of Fatima University, Rizal Technological
University, National Teachers College,
Centro Escolar University, National College
for Business and Arts, Manuel L. Quezon
University, Universal College of Parañaque,
St. Mary’s College, Taguig City University,
San Beda Alabang, San Beda Manila,
Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila,
Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Pasig, Pasig
Catholic College, Olivarez College, Chiang
Kai Shek College, Philippine Christian
University, National University, and Global
Innovative College.
“Actually, we had a meeting last
January 8, and I was given the task to take
care of the venue. The choice of holding the
event in PUP was unanimous among the
PAFTE-NCER officers,” said Dr. Rosales.
Dr. Helen C. Parcon, PAFTE-NCR
Press Relations Officer delivered the
opening remarks while PUP Executive Vice
President Dr. Victoria C. Naval represented
the hardworking PUP President Dr.
Emmanuel C. De Guzman in delivering an
inspiring message.
The keynote speech was delivered
by Dr. Edgardo Dela Cruz of the Arellano
University as he discussed important and
varied ways of assessing learning in the
current Philippine educational paradigm
shift — K to 12.
Afterwards, the Students’ Research
Presentation followed. Student-researchers
from Olivarez College and Arellano
University presented research studies
about assessing students’ learning.
“Well, it was a successful event.
Everything was well executed by the
working committee,” added Dr. Rosales.
The DESED Glee Club serenaded the
jam packed crowd by rendering songs like
“The Warrior is the Child” and “Maghihintay
Sa’yo” since the event fell on Valentine’s
Day.
Dr. Reynaldo Cruz, PAFTE-NCR Board
Member ended the monumental event with
a closing remarks.
“This was indeed a rare opportunity. It
could not have been done without the help
of the faculty and students. Also, when you
are given a task, you have to deliver,” Dr.
Rosales said. n
13Volume 2, Issue 2 |
Prestoline S. Suyat
PUP Joins Country
CampaignThe Polytechnic University of the Philippines, the
largest state university in the country today joined the
nation and the world in launching One Billion Rising
(OBR), a global campaign to end all forms of violence
against women.
Through a flash mob dance and other cultural
presentations, PUP faculty members, administrative
employees, and students showcased their talents in
dancing, aikido, and other presentations that linked
with women and men worldwide saying “Enough! The
violence ends now.”
According to the organizers of OBR, one in three
women on the planet will be raped or beaten in her
lifetime. That’s one billion mothers, daughters, sisters,
partners, and friends violated.
In the Philippines, the highlight of this crusade
was the synchronous dancing of women on February
14 in factories, farms, schools, communities, and
many other places, to a unique Filipino rhythm and
choreography. Thousands of women, men and
children who are one with the struggle to uphold and
respect women’s rights, especially women from the
marginalized classes of the Philippine society, joined
the event.
Famous international personalities have
expressed their support to OBR like Anne Hathaway,
Jessica Alba, Sally Field, and Yoko Ono.
In the Philippines, some of famous Filipinos
who gave their commitment to the campaign were
Monique Wilson, Angel Locsin, Anne Curtis, Jennylyn
Mercado, Angel Aquino, Bibeth Orteza, National Artist
Bienvenido Lumbera, senatorial candidate Teddy
Casiño, Boy Abunda, movie director Carlito Siguion-
Reyna, and music artist Chicoy Pura. n
and the World in ONE BILLION RISING
University Highlights
| The Observer14
PUP Attends AACCUP 26th Annual National Conference,
Dr. Ruiz Takes a Seat on the Board Edna Tormon-Bernabe
The Polytechnic University of the Philippines has
recently participated in the 26th Annual Conference of the
Accrediting Agency of Chartered Colleges and Universities
in the Philippines (AACCUP) held at Punta Villa Resort Hotel
in Arevalo, Iloilo City from January 28 to 31, 2013.
The PUP participants who attended the said event were
Quality Assurance Director Adela Jamorabo Ruiz, College
of Science Dean Dr. Theresita Atienza, College of Education
Dean Dr. Milagrina Gomez, College of Communication Dean
Dr. Edna T. Bernabe, College of Tourism, Hospitality and
Restaurant Management Dean Prof. Shiela Ganchero and
College of Engineering Dean Engr. Guillermo T. Bernabe.
The AACCUP Conference, with the theme “Realigning
Accreditation of SUCs to CHED Typology and Outcomes-
Based Quality Assurance” has the objectives to make all
the SUC members aware and appreciate the framework
on typology and outcomes-based quality assurance as
new policy and standard guideline set by the Commission
on Higher Education through CMO No. 46 s. 2012. The
conference was also conducted to obtain inputs for a
standard accreditation instrument that is responsive to the
requirements of the TOBQA, and to hold the election for the
new members of the AACCUP Board of Trustees for the
period 2013-2015.
PUP Director for Quality Assurance Dr. Adela Jamorabo-
Ruiz was nominated and elected as member of the AACCUP
Board of Trustees as lone representative from the National
Capital Region. The new Board elected their officers later
on February 13 with Dr. Luis M. Sorolla Jr. from Western
Visayas College of Science and Technology as President;
Dr. Evelyn C. Cruzada from Leyte Normal University, Vice
President; Dr. Rosana Grace B. Belo of Western Visayas
State University, Secretary; Dr. Mario S. Suba of Central
Luzon State University, Treasurer; Dr. Eduardo L. Bagtang
of Kalinga Apayao State College, Auditor. Members of the
Board of Trustees are Dr. Adela Jamorabo Ruiz of Polytechnic
University of the Philippines, Dr. Jeter S. Sespeñe of Palawan
State University, Engr. Ernesto A. Dela Cruz, Nueva Ecija
College of Science and Technology, Dr. Samson L. Molao of
Cotabato Foundation College of Science and Technology, Dr.
Consorcio S. NamocoJr of Mindanao University of Science
and Technology and Dr. Nenita I. Prado of Central Mindanao
State University.
The conference which was attended by more than 600
participants composed of Presidents, Vice Presidents, Deans,
Directors and Chairs of State Universities in the Philippines,
is hoped to bring about significant developments in the
academic performance of State Colleges and Universities.
Former Philippine Association of State Universities and
Colleges (PASUC) President Dr. Ricardo Rotoras in his
speech during the 2nd Day Plenary Session revealed that
progressive development through Quality Assurance is
expected to happen through the partnership of CHED and
the PASUC, and this somehow will affect the accreditation
performance of the state universities and colleges in the
county.
PUP, on its part, is committed to improve academic
excellence by submitting to the AACCUP its programs
this year, starting off with those gearing towards achieving
the level 4 status - The Bachelor of Arts in Broadcast
Communication, Bachelor of Arts in Journalism, Bachelor of
Arts in English, and Batsilyer ng Filipinohiya. n
15
News Bits
Volume 2, Issue 2 |
CCIS-DCS Participates in the 2013 ICICN Singapore
Two Bachelor of Science
in Computer Science Senior
students, Marvin Rey G.
Garcia and Hannah Roselle
B. Chan, together with their
advisers Prof. Benilda Eleonor
V. Comendador and Dr. Grant
G. Cornell, were invited to the
2013 International Conference
on Information and Computer
Networks (ICICN) to publish
and present their paper titled
“Smart Home Electricity
Management System Using
Cloud Computing”. It was held
at Quality Hotel, Singapore on
January 19 and 20 and was
organized by the International
Association of Computer
Science and Information
Technology (IACSIT).
The goal of the said
conference was for scientists,
scholars, engineers, and university students all around the world to present
ongoing research activities and foster linkages. It also provided opportunities
for the delegates to exchange new ideas and application experiences face
to face, establish business or research relations, and find global partners for
future collaboration.
The paper presented by Garcia and Chan was published in the Journal
of Advances in Computer Networks (ISSN: 1793-8244 www.jacn.net), Vol. 1
No.1 January 2013 indexed by Engineering and Technology Library, EBSCO,
Ulrich’s Periodicals Directory, International Computer Science Digital Library
(ICSDL), Google Scholar, and Crossref.
The authors were privileged to meet other delegates from different
countries such as Norway, South Korea, China, Taiwan, India, Kuwait,
Indonesia, Japan, Singapore, Thailand, Turkey, California, Australia and
Malaysia. Companies such as Kuwait Oil Company and General Electric
also participated in the event. n
(Melvin C. Roxas and Marvin Rey G. Garcia)
CoEd and TOP Sponsor
K to 12 Seminar
Dennis O. Dumrique, CO-CoEd
The Polytechnic University of
the Philippines-College of Education
(CoEd) in partnership with the Teachers’
Organization of the Philippines (TOP)
spearheaded a one-day seminar on K
to 12 last February 12 at the Balagtas
Hall, Ninoy Aquino Learning and
Library Resources Center, PUP Main
Campus. The activity focused on the
theme “Retooling Teachers for K to 12
Implementation” which aimed to discuss
the big picture of K to 12 Curriculum
and update educators in the teaching
strategies and instructions that would
complement the new curriculum.
The CoED Dean and TOP-PUP
Chapter President Dr. Milagrina A.
Gomez formally opened the program
followed by the keynote address of
TOP Vice President for Luzon, PUP
Executive Vice President Dr. Victoria
C. Naval. Dr. Naval tackled the features
and updates of the K to 12 Curriculum.
Other highlights of the program
include the talks given by two equally
moving speakers, Dr. Carolina P.
Danao, TOP President, who delivered
a talk on the “Differentiated Instruction
to Complement the K to 12 Curriculum”,
and Chairperson of the Mathematics
Department of the Philippine Normal
University, Dr. Gladys C. Nivera,
who delivered a discourse on the
“Creative Teaching of Mathematics to
Complement K to 12.” At the end of the
program, Prof. Minna L. Comuyog gave
the synthesis of the day’s activities. n
News Bits
| The Observer16
College of Computer and Information
Sciences Celebrates 27th Founding Year
The College of Computer and
Information Sciences (CCIS), formerly
College of Computer Management
and Information Technology (CCMIT),
celebrated its 27th College Week from
February 11 to 15.
Various activities were attended
by its administrators Dean Rosita
E. Canlas, Chairpersons Aleta C.
Fabregas and Michael B. Dela Fuente,
faculty members, and students,
which commenced in a parade on the
University grounds on the first day of
the celebration. It was followed by the
3rd CCIS-Department of Computer
Science Research Symposium at
Bulwagang Balagtas which showcased
the best research projects of the Fourth
Year BS Computer Science Students on
subjects such as Artificial Intelligence,
Neural Networks, Natural Language
Processing, Networking, Hardware
Technologies, and E-learning systems.
The students also participated
by organizing several activities to the
enjoyment of the entire community.
Among these activities were Jail
Booth, DOTA and Counterstrike
Tournament, Jam Booth, Kinect 2013,
Scrabble Competition supported by the
National Association for Scrabble in
the Philippines, and the CCIS Amazing
Race 2013.
The freshman students of CCIS
also showcased their talents in the
CWTS Cultural Presentation. All 11
sections performed various cultural
dances, songs, and practices of Luzon,
Visayas and Mindanao.
Meanwhile, The CCIS Student
Council organized the Sports Festival
on basketball and volleyball that was
participated by several teams from
the BSIT and BSCS programs. The
Council also organized the Battle of the
Bands, and the Mr. and Ms. CCIS which
highlighted the skills and talents of the
students. The Talent’s Night was held
on February 15 while the Coronation
Night of the Mr. and Ms. CCIS will
culminate the Founding Anniversary on
March 1. n
IRR for Psychology Board Exams Released
Certified counseling psychologist
Prof. Rodrigo Lopiga of the PUP-College
of Social Sciences and Development
attended the Psychology Board
Examinations Implementing Rules
and Regulations (IRR) first briefing
at the University of the Philippines on
January 29. The Psychology Bill’s IRR,
that was passed as a law in 2009 and
was released on January 8.
The briefing consisted of the
planning for the first board examinations
for psychometricians and psychologists
that will is tentative slated sometime in
October or November of 2013.
The IRR briefing was facilitated by
Dr. Miriam Cue, Chairman of the PRBP,
and Dr. Grace Dalisay, Chairman of the
Department of Psychology of UP.
Meanwhile, Prof. Lopiga also
attended a workshop on “Mindfulness-
Based Psychotheraphy” last February
2. The workshop was facilitated by
Lauren Jerrat, an Australian Licensed
Psychotherapist. n
17
News Bits
Volume 2, Issue 2 |
Institute of Tech Alumni Work for Science Exhibit Rudolf Anthony A. Lacerna
From a total of 682 pioneer
graduates of the Institute of Technology
(formerly College of Technology),
nine Computer Engineering
Management Technology (CEMT)
plus one Information Communication
Management Technology (ICMT)
graduates created computer programs,
graphics, multimedia, and interactive
educational materials for the Nido
Fortified Science Discovery Center in
the SM Mall of Asia, Pasay City.
The alumni include Erwin M.
Bo, Joshua I. Calabia, Mel Morris A.
Cerbito, Fleener Lemon A. dela Cruz,
Mark Anthony S. Jaray, Maureen Ann
R. Martin, Rjay C. Nobesteros, Isidro
Julius A. Leonor III, Joshua M. Sanchez,
and Jimbo R. Suarez.
Major works of the group of
Institute of Technology alumni include
Augmented Reality, a real-world
environment in which graphics are
augmented by computer-generated
sensory input; Periodic Table of
Elements in touch screen where
information about a selected element
will flash in the projected area; and,
Body X-Ray, an interactive screen that
follows the movements of humans
that it detects to project the skeletal
and muscular systems. Other related
interactive materials about Science in
Basic Education made by the alumni
are also worthy of highlighting.
Approximately 50,000 pre-
elementary, elementary and secondary
student-excursionists from different
schools in Luzon visited the science
exhibit since it was launched in
September 2012.
The Institute of Technology alumni
are connected with the Multimedia
Interactive Technology Experts (MITE)
Asia Enterprise, the contractor of SM
Mall of Asia for the project of Nido
Fortified Science Discovery Center,
which provides different interactive
and multimedia services. The success
of these alumni is one indication that
the Institute of Technology achieved
its vision of providing globally-skilled
workforce in a technology-driven
culture. n
News Bits
| The Observer18
Copyrighting Seminar for Education and Research Held
PUP Medical Services Marks National Cancer Awareness Month
The Polytechnic University of the Philippines Medical
Services Section observed the National Cancer Awareness
Month 2013 in January with lectures, consultations, breast
,and digital rectal examination.
According to Dr. Felicitas Bermudez, a total of 95 female
students, faculty members, and employees availed of the
free breast examination while five males benefited from the
free digital rectal examination conducted last January 21-
31.
The January 22 lecture on “Gross Breast Examination
with Actual Demonstration” by Dr. Ma. Liza T. Yanes at the
PUP Institute of Technology and Dr. Cara Narra’s lecture on
“Tete-A-Tete on Tits & Tits” at the PUP College of Engineering
on January 24 drew a total of 303 participants. n
(DAN ESPONILLA DALAC)
The Office of the Vice President for Research,
Extension, Planning and Development (OVPREPD) through
the Intellectual Property and Commercialization Office
sponsored a seminar on “Copyrighting Works for Education
and Research” last January 23 at the Accenture Audio-
Visual Room.
The seminar, which was held in cooperation with the
Innovation and Technology Support Office (ITSO) and the
Center for Entrepreneurial Development (CED), discussed
mainly how to copyright works and what practicability
copyrighted works bring to the University.
Mr. Leonardo P. Bernabe, Jr., Division Chief of the
Research and Publications Office of the National Library
of the Philippines was the invited resource speaker of the
seminar. Coincidentally, Bernabe was a fresh graduate of
PUP Open University last December 2012 where he finished
his Master’s in Public Administration.
Bernabe admitted in his talk that their work in the National
Library is by nature ministerial, but he stressed that they can
assist in ironing out problems and controversies regarding
copyright.
He also encouraged everyone to practice copyrighting
their works to protect the products of their hard-earned
writings and researches.
During the Open Forum, Dr. Racidon Bernarte, Director
of the Research Management Office, explained that theses
and dissertations must also be copyrighted to protect their
authors. He also opined that theses are basically owned by
the students, though faculty members serve as their advisers.
When pressed about the issue of co-ownership between
the students and faculty member who serves as adviser,
Bernarte pointed out that there must be an agreement
between the two parties.
Bernarte also added that instructional materials, including
PowerPoint presentations could also be copyrighted. He,
however, stressed to acknowledge the original authors as
sources used in these kinds of presentations just like any
other kind of research material.
Prof. Elmer G. De Jose, Chief of the Intellectual Property
and Commercialization Office delivered the Closing Remarks
of the seminar. n
(Prestoline S. Suyat)
Dr. Ma. Liza T. Yanes talking about “Gross Breast Examina!on”
at the Ins!tute of Technology, spearheaded by the Physician-in-Charge
Dr. Karpal Singh.
19
News Bits
Volume 2, Issue 2 |
ITech Educators Judge STEP’s Division
Skills Development Competition Rudolf Anthony A. Lacerna
PUP Information Technology (IT) educators were invited
by the President of the Division of City Schools Technology
Education Services of Manila, Mr. Rodrigo G. Natividad, to
participate in the 11th Student Technologists Entrepreneurs
of the Philippines (STEP) Division Skills Development and
Competition in secondary schools with the theme Upgrading
Skills, Improving Lives on January 25 at the Sergio Osmeña
High School, Manila.
Two Institute of Technology (ITech) faculty members,
Prof. Josephine M. dela Isla, Chairperson of the Computer
Secretarial Department, and Prof. Raquel G. Salazar, IT
instructor, judged the Keyboarding Competition participated
by 25 public secondary schools in the Division City Schools
of Manila.
STEP, as a program and as an organization, highlights the
relevance of skills development in the areas of Edukasyong
Pantahanan at Pangkabuhayan (EPP), Technology and
Livelihood Education (TLE), and Technical-Vocational
Education (TVE). The Department of Education (DepEd)
authorizes the conduct of the School Year 2011-2012 STEP-
Skills Development and Competitions (SDCs) in school,
district, division, and regional levels. n
PUP Bataan Holds Research Seminar-WriteshopLenis Aislinn C. Separa
Keeping attuned with the University’s strategic agenda of
embedding a culture of research, Polytechnic University of the
Philippines Bataan Branch faculty members participated in the
second of three parts of the Seminar-Writeshop on Research last
January 30 at the PUP Bataan Library.
Dr. Gloria S. Santos, Branch Head for the Academic Programs,
facilitated the conduct of the seminar. The faculty members were
also clustered according to their specialization that same day.
Each group worked on different samples of abstracts in applying
the research concepts discussed in the first part of the seminar
held on November 28, 2012. A representative was then assigned
to share the research critique of the group to the other faculty
members.
The last part of the writeshop in which participants are expected
to present research proposals related to their specialization is
scheduled before the semester ends. n
News Bits
| The Observer20
PUP Bataan Organizes Journalism
and Radio Broadcasting Seminar-WorkshopLenis Aislinn C. Separa
The official student publication of PUP Bataan, The
Marker, in cooperation with the Education College Council,
conducted a two-day seminar-workshop dubbed as “Going
Deep in the World of Journalism” on February 7 and 8 at the
Enrique “Tet” Garcia Hall.
Invited participants were the Editorial Board of different
high school student publications in Mariveles and selected
Bachelor of Secondary Education Major in English students
of the Branch.
Topics discussed during the first day were “Basic
Newswriting” by Ms. Raquel Castillo, the school paper adviser
of Llamas Memorial Institute; “Common Grammatical Errors
in News Writing” by Prof. John Andrew Monroe, an English
Instructor at PUP Bataan; “Photojournalism” by Prof. Lenis
Aislinn C. Separa, The Marker Adviser; and “Photo Editing
Using Adobe Photoshop” by Prof. Dennis Concepcion, an
Information Technology Instructor at PUP Bataan.
Mr. Joey Silva, the school paper adviser of Mariveles
National High School-Poblacion, discussed the “Essentials
of Radio Broadcasting” during the second day of the seminar.
Participants created their own Filipino and English versions
of radio broadcasts during the workshop. n
21
News Bits
Volume 2, Issue 2 |
PUP Maragandon Celebrates 26th Founding Anniversary
in “Wider Dimensions and Brighter Horizons”The Polytechnic University of the
Philippines Maragondon Campus
celebrated its 26th Founding Anniversary
though a week-long line-up of activities
from January 21 to 29. The highlight
of which was the Convocation and
Awarding Ceremonies held on January
29 with Hon. Ramon “Jolo” Revilla III
as the Keynote Speaker, represented
by Ms. Jodi Sta. Maria.
In her speech, Sta Maria, who
was warmly welcomed by the PUP
Community, extended the support of
the Revilla family to PUP Maragondon
by providing more facilities to be
used by the students of the campus.
University President Emanuel C. De
Guzman, Vice President for Branches
and Campuses Dr. Joseph Mercado,
and Maragondon Mayor Mon Andaman
also graced the event.
PUP-Maragondon Receives Buildings from Remulla and Cayetano
Activities lined-up for the celebration
were geared towards testing the skills,
abilities, and competencies of students
in different areas such as the PEP-
Squad and Sports Competitions,
Academic and Cultural Contests,
Research Presentation, Search for Mr.
& Miss PUP-MC, and the Maragondon-
traditional street dancing competition
known as the “Dagundong Festival.”
In addition, the Gawad Parangal,
Thanksgiving Mass, and Exhibits were
also attended by the faculty, students,
and employees.
This year’s theme, PUP-MC@26:
“Wider dimensions…Brighter horizons.”,
is a manifestation of PUP Maragondon’s
26 years of service in providing quality
education to the ”Iskolar ng Bayan”, 26
years of establishing and maintaining
linkages with different institutions
and industries, and 26 years of great
partnership with the government and
non-government organizations that will
continue in more years to come. On its
pledge of lifetime commitment to the
studentry, the “Sintang Paaralan” will
serve as a book of knowledge to attain
Wider Dimensions and as a torch to
light the path for Brighter Horizons of
learning for the “Iskolar ng Bayan”.
The week-long celebration was
made possible through the combined
efforts of the administration, faculty,
administrative staff, and students.
This year’s Founding Anniversary was
chaired by Prof. Agnes Y. Gonzaga and
co-chaired by Prof. Cherry E. Angeles.
n
Agnes Y. Gonzaga
Two newly-constructed buildings
were formally turned over to the
Polytechnic University of the
Philippines Maragondon Branch on
January 29 during the celebration
of its 26th Founding Anniversary.
The first is a 1.6 million-worth multi-
purpose building which is convertible
to two classrooms. The said
building is through the generosity
of Congressman Jesus Crispin C.
Remulla, Representative of the 7th
District of Cavite. The second is a
2.5 million-worth two-classroom, two-
storey building which is a project of
Senator Allan Peter Cayetano through
the efforts of Mr. Gilbert Remulla,
another supportive stakeholder of
PUP Maragondon and Managing
Director of Island Cove Hotel and
Leisure Park.
Mr. Remulla graced the ribbon
cutting ceremony representing his
brother, Congressman Remulla, and
his friend, Senator Cayetano. He
spoke before the PUP Maragondon
community and pledged his continuous
support to the Institution. Meanwhile,
PUP President Dr. Emanuel C. De
Guzman and Vice President for
Branches and Campuses Dr. Joseph
Mercado witnessed the event and
formally thanked Mr. Remulla in behalf
of the PUP System. In her acceptance
speech, PUP Maragondon Campus
Director Prof. Denise Abril expressed
her gratitude to Senator Cayetano and
to the Remulla Brothers. She mentioned
that the said buildings will surely be
beneficial to the growing number of
students in PUP Maragondon.
Feature Story
| The Observer22
Melba D. AbaletaÊsHalf-Century Affinity with PUP
DAN ESPONILLA DALAC
23
Feature Story
Volume 2, Issue 2|
The country’s largest state university, the trailblazing
Philippine College of Commerce of yesteryears, has
produced countless civil servants. One of them is
Polytechnic University of the Philippines’ Registrar, Prof.
Melba Dado-Abaleta, who has been serving the University
for the past four decades.
Melba traces her roots to Bicol, the land of Daragang
Magayon and Nuestra Señora de Peñafrancia. She was born
on May 2, 1948 in Legaspi City to parents Fermin Abaleta
and Guadalupe Dado. She has three siblings. She finished
her basic education as Salutatorian at the General Roxas
Elementary School in Quezon City, the urban center which
once served as the country’s capital.
A true-blooded PUPian, Melba spent her high school at
the Philippine College of Commerce Laboratory High School
from 1961 to 1965. The then fledgling PCCLHS which was
established in 1954 had for its home the PCC campus along
Lepanto Street in Sampaloc, Manila.
Melba pursued her tertiary education at PCC where
she obtained her Bachelor of Science in Commerce major
in Marketing/Management degree in 1969. A consistent
scholar from grade school to college, she was among the
ten outstanding students of the year. She and her fellow
student leaders were cited for their exemplary service to
PCC which, to the dismay of then President Ferdinand E.
Marcos, was a popular bastion of youth activism. The PCC
Class of 1969 included the now renowned religious leader
Eduardo C. Villanueva and noted election lawyer Romulo B.
Macalintal.
An active campus figure, Melba was elected treasurer
of the Supreme Student Council in her senior year. She also
served as president of the Junior Marketing Association,
auditor of the Student Catholic Action, and member of the
KATAGA honor society.
Melba belonged to the very first batch of new graduates
– the lone female in the group – invited by the charismatic Dr.
Nemesio E. Prudente to teach at PCC. She started teaching
full-time at the age of 20, and has since handled Marketing,
Management, Advertising and Cooperatives subjects as an
associate professor. She was among those who witnessed
the conversion of PCC into the Polytechnic University of the
Philippines in 1978 when the country was still under the grip
of martial rule.
The establishment of the PCC Consumer Cooperative in
1969 is credited to Melba who also served as its first General
Manager. Melba also had the distinction of being the longest-
serving treasurer of the PCC Faculty Club.
A conscientious educator, Melba was the Chairperson
of the Department of Marketing and Advertising at the PUP
College of Business in the first half of 1992, the very year Dr.
Prudente left the academe to run for a Senate seat under
the Liberal Party tandem of Senators Jovito Salonga and
Aquilino Pimentel. Prudente’s retirement left a presidential
crisis at PUP which involved the court-backed Dr. Isabelo
Crisostomo and the Malacañang-picked Dr. Jaime Gellor.
Both Crisostomo and Gellor designated Melba as Chairperson
of the Marketing and Advertising Department.
Melba was appointed head of the Office of the University
Registrar in July 1992 by the first lady president of PUP, the
self-effacing Dr. Zenaida Olonan. She has since served
under the succeeding administrations of Dr. Ofelia Carague,
Dr. Samuel Salvador (officer-in-charge), Dr. Dante Guevarra,
Atty. Estelita Wi-Dela Rosa (officer-in-charge), and the
present University President Dr. Emanuel C. De Guzman.
Several innovations were introduced under her term
as Registrar of the University. Most of these were changes
pertaining to the PUP College Entrance Test which draws
thousands of applicants every year. Melba’s stint resulted
in the following achievements: production of scannable
PUPCET application forms, scanning of PUPCET answer
sheets, computerization of PUPCET applications, and
posting of PUPCET results in the Internet.
A devout Roman Catholic and member of the global Opus
Dei organization, Melba is about to retire from government
service. She will leave her work contentedly, bringing with
her more than half-a-century of fond memories from PCC
and PUP. Melba is truly an accomplished leader, teacher,
official, and alumna.
Ms. Abaleta was awarded for her exemplary services to PCC.