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https://up.edu.ph/up-releases-episode-3-of-byaheng-blended-ni-zia-with-a-focus-on-mental-well-being/ | UP releases Episode 3 of “Byaheng Blended ni Zia,” with a focus on mental well-being – University of the Philippines | UP releases Episode 3 of “Byaheng Blended ni Zia,” with a focus on mental well-being UP releases Episode 3 of “Byaheng Blended ni Zia,” with a focus on mental well-being October 26, 2022 | Written by UP Media and Public Relations Office For the University of the Philippines (UP), taking care of the mental health of its students and other academic community members is paramount. UP students have to transition to blended learning from two years of remote learning, on top of academic pressures and the strain of dealing with a pandemic. To help UP students adjust and thrive in the new blended mode of learning and to celebrate Mental Health Awareness Month this October, the UP Office of Student Development Services (OSDS) has released Episode 3 in its four-part video series, “Byaheng Blended ni Zia,” with a special focus on “Mental Well-being.” This video provides practical ways to manage school anxiety and access professional help. In addition, the UP OSDS has also published a Directory of Mental Health Service Providers in all of UP’s constituent units. This Directory offers contact information on mental health service providers across the UP System who can help students with mental health concerns, students diagnosed with mental health conditions, and students seeking psychosocial rehabilitation. Download the Directory of Mental Health Services Providers here. |
https://up.edu.ph/up-students-invited-to-join-2-webinars-on-issues-affecting-mental-health/ | UP students invited to join 2 webinars on issues affecting mental health – University of the Philippines | UP students invited to join 2 webinars on issues affecting mental health UP students invited to join 2 webinars on issues affecting mental health February 20, 2021 | Written by Celeste Ann Castillo Llaneta Troubled by love and relationship issues during the time of COVID-19? Stressed over the lack of learning resources online for remote learning on top of everything else? The University of the Philippines Diliman (UPD) Office of the Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs is presenting two webinars on Monday, 22 February, on these two important issues affecting students’ mental and psychosocial health. Photo from the UPD OVCSA Facebook page The first webinar talks about “Hangga’t Andito Ka: Celebration of Love and Life”. It will be held from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon. The webinar features as resource speaker Don Anagaran III, a UP Film Institute, College of Mass Communication student. He will discuss relationship issues, concerns and thriving amidst all the difficulties and trials in life. Despite all odds, there will always be a reason and purpose to celebrate life and to flourish in love. Please register for this webinar here: bit.ly/OCGSELF3. Photo from the UPD OVCSA Facebook page The last installment of the webinar series on “Surviving LDR(L): Long Distance/Remote Learning”, dubbed “Akala Mo Lang Wala! Pero Meron! Meron! Meron!: Information and Digital Literacy”, will be held at 3:00 p.m. This webinar aims to offer helpful tips and hacks for students when it comes to searching for academic resources online to support their remote learning. Resource speakers are: Assistant Professor Yhna Therese Santos from the UPD School of Library and Information Studies; Assistant Professor Elenita Que from the UPD College of Education; and, and Bea Camille Cortez from the UPD College of Fine Arts. Register for this webinar at bit.ly/SLDRLWeb4Reg. For more information and more helpful webinars, visit the UPD OVCSA Facebook page. |
https://up.edu.ph/up-stop-covid-deaths-webinar-takes-on-the-case-of-a-special-infant-with-covid/ | UP Stop COVID Deaths webinar takes on the case of “A Special Infant with COVID” – University of the Philippines | UP Stop COVID Deaths webinar takes on the case of “A Special Infant with COVID” UP Stop COVID Deaths webinar takes on the case of “A Special Infant with COVID” October 22, 2020 | Written by Celeste Ann Castillo Llaneta Staying safe during the COVID-19 pandemic is much more challenging for people with underlying health issues and compromised immune systems. This vulnerable demographic includes not only senior adults and people with co-morbidities but newborn infants with congenital defects as well. Congenital defects rank among the 20 leading causes of death for all ages in the Philippines and the third leading cause of death among newborns. The factors that impact a child’s congenital development, both genetic and environmental, highlight the importance of pre-natal care and nutrition of females of reproductive age. Saving the life of a child with a congenital defect requires immediate diagnosis and surgery, both of which are made even riskier in the context of a pandemic. The 27th installment in the UP webinar series “STOP COVID DEATHS: VIRTUAL GRAND ROUNDS”, the very first online medical grand rounds in the Philippines, will focus on the case of “A Special Infant with COVID”—a 12-day old infant with pneumonia and multiple congenital abnormalities, including a Chiari malformation, which is a defect wherein the spinal cord meets the brain and can result in problems in the brain and/or in the spinal cord. This webinar is scheduled on Friday, October 23, from 12nn to 2pm. Dr. Lady Scarlett Sedano, neurosurgery resident of the UP Philippine General Hospital (UP-PGH), will be the presentor, while Dr. Ronnie Baticulon, consultant at the UP-PGH Division of Neurosurgery, Department of Neuroscience, and associate professor of anatomy at the UP College of Medicine (UPCM), will be the discussant. The reactors are: Dr. Maynila Domingo, consultant at the Section of Perinatology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, UP-PGH, and clinical associate professor of the UPCM; Dr. Ma. Liza Antoinette Maniquis-Gonzales, professor of pediatrics at the UP-PGH and UPCM Associate Dean for Faculty and Students; and Dr. Loudella V. Calotes-Castillo, pediatric neurology consultant specializing in neuromuscular diseases. The UP “Stop COVID Deaths” webinar series is organized by the University of the Philippines in partnership with the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) and the UP Manila NIH National Telehealth Center, and in cooperation with the UPCM and the UP-PGH. Register here: bit.ly/StopCOVIDDeathsWebinar27 |
https://up.edu.ph/experts-address-covid-19-vaccine-safety-issues-for-people-with-allergies/ | Experts address COVID-19 vaccine safety issues for people with allergies – University of the Philippines | Experts address COVID-19 vaccine safety issues for people with allergies Experts address COVID-19 vaccine safety issues for people with allergies February 24, 2021 | Written by Fred Dabu You are invited to listen to the country’s top experts as they discuss the latest scientific findings on COVID-19 vaccines and possible physiological reactions among people with health concerns. In the next University of the Philippines webinar, “May Mga Allergy Ako: COVID-19 Vaccine- SAFE BA?”, to be held on Friday, 26 February 2021, 12 noon, Dr. Marysia Stella T. Recto will talk about COVID-19 vaccines in relation to allergies and other reactions. Recto is the immediate past president of the Philippine Society of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology (PSAAI), and Professor of Adult Pediatric Allergy and Immunology at the UP-Philippine General Hospital, This webinar aims to explain possible but rare reactions to administered vaccine, and how health workers will manage any reaction, as well as provide answers to questions raised by participants. The experts will also expound on: who should not be given COVID-19 vaccines, patients who need further evaluation, and special groups who can receive the vaccine. Dr. Rommel Lobo, President of PSAAI, and Dr. Elena E. Pernia, UP System VP for Public Affairs, will open the webinar with special messages. Dr. Charlotte Chiong, Dean of the UP College of Medicine, will also share her insights during the webinar. Dr. Leilanie Apostol-Nicodemus, Professor at the Department of Family and Community Medicine at the UP-PGH, and Karen Davila, broadcast journalist of Headstart on ANC will serve as webinar reactors. The Stop COVID Deaths webinar series is organized by UP in partnership with UP Manila National Institutes of Health-National Telehealth Center, and in cooperation with UP PGH. To participate in this webinar, sign up at: bit.ly/StopCOVIDDeathsWebinar42. |
https://up.edu.ph/up-webinar-addresses-publics-vaccination-concerns/ | UP webinar addresses public’s vaccination concerns – University of the Philippines | UP webinar addresses public’s vaccination concerns UP webinar addresses public’s vaccination concerns May 12, 2021 | Written by Jo. Florendo B. Lontoc Answering questions about vaccination from the public will be the focus of the latest edition of the University of the Philippines webinar series, “Stop COVID Deaths”, livestreamed on May 14, 2021, at 12 noon. Titled “Nalilito pa rin ako: FAQs on COVID-19 Vaccination”, the webinar will feature as main resource person, epidemiologist and public health expert Dr. Enrique Tayag, Director IV of the Department of Health (DOH) Knowledge Management and Information Technology Systems. Dr. Anna Ong-Lim, a member of the DOH Technical Advisory Group and Associate Professor at the UP College of Medicine, and Dr. Teodoro Herbosa, Special Adviser to the National Task Force Against COVID-19, will be the panel discussants. The webinar will also feature inputs from Dr. Nina Gloriani, Lead of the Vaccine Expert Panel and former Dean of the UP College of Public Health, who will deliver the opening remarks. UP College of Medicine Dean Charlotte Chiong will deliver the closing remarks and synthesis of the discussions. Together with regular webinar facilitators: Dr. Susan Pineda-Mercado, an international public health expert, and UP National Telehealth Center Director Raymond Francis Sarmiento, the experts will answer questions from the audience, usually composed of health workers from all over the world. The webinar aims to address “vaccine hesitancy” among the public, which experts say presents a barrier to achieving better control of the spread of COVID-19. They observe: many senior citizens questioning the need for vaccination when they are compelled to stay at home; others not knowing where to go for vaccination; the general public debating about vaccine brands and their safety; some who have received one shot wanting to switch to another brand; and, many more fearing possibilities of allergies and adverse reactions. Those who wish to participate in the webinar may register at bit.ly/StopCOVIDDeathsWebinar52. If registration reaches full capacity, a YouTube Live broadcast will also be available on TVUP at http://tvup.ph and http://www.youtube.com/tvupph. Certificates of attendance will be issued to those who have attended at least 50% of the webinar duration. The webinar is the 52nd in the weekly series produced by UP in partnership with the UP Manila National Institutes of Health-National Telehealth Center and in cooperation with the UP Philippine General Hospital. |
https://up.edu.ph/up-webinar-to-focus-on-home-care-for-mild-covid-19/ | UP webinar to focus on home care for mild COVID-19 – University of the Philippines | UP webinar to focus on home care for mild COVID-19 UP webinar to focus on home care for mild COVID-19 April 28, 2021 | Posted by UP Media and Public Relations Office The number of new COVID-19 cases may have dropped following the declaration of enhanced community quarantine (ECQ) and modified enhanced community quarantine (MECQ), but these numbers are still at high levels. Many cases of COVID-19—around 69 % of all cases, according to the ABS-CBN Investigative and Research Group—are mild and can be managed at home. What are the COVID-19 home management steps that family members need to know? What should be done when more than one member of the family has COVID-19? What should patients do to take care of themselves? And what are the danger signals to watch out for that would indicate that hospitalization might be needed? The 50th installment of the University of the Philippines’ (UP) “Stop COVID Deaths” webinar series will focus on home care for mild COVID-19. Watch the special-edition webinar, “Sa Bahay Na Lang: Home Care for Mild COVID-19”, on Friday, 30 April, at 12:00. The webinar will also highlight how the UP Philippine General Hospital (UP-PGH) COVID TeleGabay Project and The Medical City COVID Home Care Program are reaching thousands of patients who prefer to stay home when they test positive for COVID-19, to be presented by Dr. Jonas del Rosario of the UP-PGH and Dr. Amiel Dela Cruz of TMC. Reactor is former Health Secretary Paulyn Jean Ubial, who will also share how other organizations are supporting families and health workers on the ground. Opening remarks will be delivered by UP Manila Chancellor, Dr. Carmencita D. Padilla, and closing remarks by UP College of Medicine Dean, Dr. Charlotte M. Chiong. Register for the Zoom webinar here: bit.ly/StopCOVIDDeathsWebinar50. |
https://up.edu.ph/up-webinar-discusses-management-of-covid-cases-in-families/ | UP webinar discusses management of COVID cases in families – University of the Philippines | UP webinar discusses management of COVID cases in families UP webinar discusses management of COVID cases in families May 26, 2021 | Written by Jo. Florendo B. Lontoc Medical experts will discuss COVID-19 infection of healthy young adults which escalate into severe illness, and management of multiple infections in households in the 54th edition of the University of the Philippines webinar series “Stop COVID Deaths” to be livestreamed on May 28, 2021, at 12 noon. The webinar, “COVID sa Pamilya: Hindi pala Ligtas ang Malusog at Nakababata”, will point out that not only seniors and persons with pre-existing illnesses become severely ill from COVID-19. It will highlight the critical importance of vaccination of all eligible ages in households. Dr. Grace Astudillo, fellow in training for infectious diseases at the UP Philippine General Hospital (PGH), will present the case of a 36-year-old healthy male, who was infected with SARSCov2 and developed severe COVID within 28 days of the positive test result. Dr. Ralph Villalobos, Consultant of the UP-PGH Division of Pulmonary Medicine, will discuss clinical management of such a case. Dr. Anna Guia Limpoco, Board Member of the Philippine Academy of Family Physicians, will give a perspective on COVID-19 management, taking into account the mixed and intergenerational households of the Philippines. The webinar will also feature inputs from Dr. Stella Marie L. Jose, UP-PGH Deputy Director for Health Operations, who will deliver the opening remarks. UP College of Medicine Dean Charlotte Chiong will deliver the closing remarks and synthesis of the discussions. The webinars feature Dr. Susan Pineda-Mercado, an international public health expert, and UP National Telehealth Center Director Raymond Francis Sarmiento, as regular facilitators. Those who wish to participate in the webinar may register at bit.ly/StopCOVIDDeathsWebinar54. If registration reaches full capacity, a YouTube Live broadcast will also be available on TVUP at http://tvup.ph and http://www.youtube.com/tvupph. Certificates of attendance will be issued to those who have attended at least 50% of the webinar duration. The webinar is the 54th in the weekly series produced by UP in partnership with the UP Manila National Institutes of Health-National Telehealth Center and in cooperation with the UP Philippine General Hospital. The series aims to tap into the experiences of clinicians, hospital administrators, and researchers to bridge the gap between knowledge and practice in the clinical management of COVID-19 cases. |
https://up.edu.ph/up-announces-additional-flexible-academic-measures-for-the-remainder-of-the-semester/ | UP announces additional flexible academic measures for the remainder of the semester – University of the Philippines | UP announces additional flexible academic measures for the remainder of the semester UP announces additional flexible academic measures for the remainder of the semester November 26, 2020 | Written by Celeste Ann Castillo Llaneta Recognizing the extreme challenges of switching to remote teaching and learning in the middle of a pandemic, and economic and technological limitations made worse by the spate of typhoons that battered the country, the University of the Philippines has announced additional flexible academic measures for the remainder of the first semester of AY 2020-2021. This includes the extension of the deadline for the submission of grades to give students more time to accomplish academic requirements and faculty to grade them, and a policy of no failing grades to be given to students this semester. After due deliberation on the situation of faculty and students in the wake of the typhoons, and in the spirit of balancing divergent positions and interests of faculty and students in the wider context of Philippine higher education, the UP Administration—specifically President’s Advisory Council (PAC), composed of the UP System Executive Committee, Chancellors, and the Philippine General Hospital and UP Bonifacio Global City Directors—upon the recommendation of the Academic Affairs Committee consisting of the Vice-President for Academic Affairs, Assistant Vice-Presidents for Academic Affairs and Vice-Chancellors for Academic Affairs of UP’s constituent units—endorsed the guidelines for the remainder of the first semester AY 2020-2021 and the proposed modification of the academic calendar for the second semester AY 2020-2021 and midyear 2021. The academic guidelines were laid down in Memorandum No. 2020-143 issued by the UP System Office of the Vice President for Academic Affairs (OVPAA) on 26 November 2020. The UP Board of Regents, in its 1356th meeting on the same day, approved the PAC-endorsed guidelines and modified academic calendar with an additional condition for the conduct of bridging activities. Guidelines for the remainder of the semester The first semester for AY 2020-2021 will end as scheduled, with 9 December as the last day of classes, and final examinations to be held from 11 to 18 December. However, the deadline for the submission of grades is moved from 8 January to 22 January 2021 to give students more time to complete requirements and the faculty more time to grade them. Moreover, the grades for the first semester AY 2020-2021 will be numeric. The reason for the numeric grades is that, unlike in the second semester of the previous academic year when the University was caught unprepared by the pandemic and the subsequent lockdowns, students have been provided course packs to enable independent learning even when formal classes are not possible. Many students also need grades for scholarships, licensure examinations, future studies, and employment requirements. However, a grade of 4.0 or conditional failure, or a failing grade of 5.0 shall not be given this semester. Faculty members are also not allowed to give a forced drop (DRP) to students on the basis of non-attendance of synchronous classes or non-communication within the semester, for instance, during scheduled consultations. Instead, students will be given an INC. This change effectively suspends the rule on attendance that states: “When the number of hours lost by student’s absence reaches 20 percent of the hours of recitation, lecture, laboratory, or any other scheduled work in one subject, s/he shall be dropped from the subject; . . . If the majority of the absences is excused, a student shall not be given a grade of 5.00 upon being thus dropped (often referred to as ‘forced drop’); but if the majority of the absences are not excused, the student shall be given a grade of 5.00 upon being thus dropped.” Faculty members are encouraged to help students affected by the typhoons and the pandemic to comply with the requirements in time for the 22 January deadline for the submission of grades. Students with missing or incomplete requirements by 22 January shall be given a grade of INC. Suspended is the rule that states that a student whose class standing is not “passing” and who fails to complete requirements or take the final exam automatically receives a grade of 5.0. Instead, students will be allowed to complete their requirements within the prescribed period within one academic year, after which they shall be given a final grade. Students who fail to complete an INC within the prescribed period must re-enroll in the course or its equivalent. Faculty members are enjoined to continue calibrating their course requirements with the current conditions in mind. Course requirements may be further reduced to the essentials of a course, and no additional course requirements should be specified. Faculty members may conduct bridging academic activities before the extended deadline for the submission of grades, provided the students in their course agree to these. Suspended academic rules and modified academic calendar The UP Administration also issued a reminder in the memo that, in addition to the suspended rules on class attendance and INCs above, the following academic rules remain suspended with the approval of the BOR: 1. The deadline for dropping and filing of leave of absence is suspended. 2. A 12-unit course load will be considered a regular load for undergraduate students. 3. The First Semester AY 2020-2021 will not be counted towards MRR. This is because it is the first time for students to do remote learning and they will still calibrate the course load that they can manage, especially for graduate students who are working from home and for other students who have a workload outside of their school work. 4. A student enrolled in a course this semester that is a prerequisite to another shall be allowed to enroll in the latter course for credit in the subsequent semester, despite having no grade yet for the prerequisite course given the extension of the deadline for submission of grades to 22 January 2021. 5. The following rules on scholastic delinquency are suspended for the first semester AY 2020-2021: a. Warning b. Probation c. Dismissal d. Permanent Disqualification In light of the postponement of the submission of grades and the time needed to prepare course guides and resource materials, the UP BOR approved the following modified academic calendar for the second semester of AY 2020-2021 and midyear 2021. Second Semester AY 2020-2021 Start of Classes: 1 March 2021 Reading/Wellness Break: 29 April – 5 May 2021 Reading/Wellness Breaks for the split-sem schedule: 25 – 27 March 2021; 20 – 22 May 2021 End of Classes: 11 June 2021 2021 Midyear Start of Classes: 5 July 2021 Reading/Wellness Break: 29 – 31 July 2021 End of Classes: 20 August 2021 Finals Period: 23 – 26 August 2021 Extremely difficult semester The OVPAA memo described the unprecedented difficulties faced by UP students and faculty this semester, given the public health crisis and the impacts of natural disasters on the UP community. Academic units had to redesign programs, balance student demand for course slots with the faculty’s appeal for smaller classes, and rush requests for funds to cover resources for remote teaching and learning. Faculty members have had to cope with an inordinate amount of work, from designing learning activities and planning course requirements, selecting course materials, to preparing course packs with course and study guides and resource materials for uploading in the CUs’ Learning Management System, or for printing and delivery to students with poor connectivity. Some faculty members face the same technological challenges that students have to deal with, and some also have to juggle the added workload with their family care and domestic duties. Students have also had to grapple with an overwhelming amount of readings and requirements in the four or five courses they have to attend remotely. Additionally, they have had to adjust to the different time frame and rhythm of independent and remote learning without much preparation, while studying in homes and environments that may have poor Internet connectivity, occasional power outages, and may not be conducive to learning. These difficulties, which were revealed in a “Kumustahan” and in surveys conducted by the CUs prior to the typhoons, prompted the UP System to call for a review of course content and requirements, as well as a reading break from synchronous classes and the submission of course requirements. With the typhoons exacerbating the situation for many members of the UP community, both the UP System and CU administrations called for even greater compassion and flexibility on the part of the faculty and for an iterative reconfiguration of course content and requirements for the remaining weeks of the semester. Read the OVPAA Memorandum No. 2020-143 here. |
https://up.edu.ph/discovering-connections-connecting-discoveries-new-webinar-series-will-introduce-new-online-resources-for-up-faculty-and-staff/ | “Discovering Connections, Connecting Discoveries”: New webinar series will introduce new online resources for UP faculty and staff – University of the Philippines | “Discovering Connections, Connecting Discoveries”: New webinar series will introduce new online resources for UP faculty and staff “Discovering Connections, Connecting Discoveries”: New webinar series will introduce new online resources for UP faculty and staff February 18, 2021 | Posted by UP Media and Public Relations Office A new webinar series dubbed “Discovering Connections, Connecting Discoveries” will introduce University of the Philippines (UP) faculty and staff to the new online resources of the UP System. The webinar series will run from 22 to 26 February, as announced by the UP Office of the Vice President for Academic Affairs. The schedule of the upcoming webinar series, along with their registration links, is as follows: 22 February, Monday 8:30 – 10:00 a.m. – OpenAthens: Your One-Stop Site for Online Database Access Facilitator: John Christopherson LT. Fredeluces, College Librarian, UPD University Library https://up-edu.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZwsfu2oqzsuHtT8WpjWm9FUnQjG99WrLgRi 10:15 – 11:45 a.m. – Getting Started with Gale Reference Complete Facilitator: Ms. Sarah Diane Enriquez, Solutions Specialists, CE Logic, Inc. https://up-edu.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZwrd-ugrz4iG9CYlwG7-TSRQB1hoBPakTx 1:00 – 2:30 p.m. – Jumpstarting Your Research with JOVE Unlimited Facilitator: Dr. Maaike Pols, Scientific Advisor, JoVE https://up-edu.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZwkc-GvrTItEtxNwvU3kYiGy1KAUVqL6yYH 3:00 – 4:30 p.m. – Empowering Knowledge with Elsevier Tools Facilitator: Mr. Johan Jang, Customer Consultant, Elsevier SEA Facilitator: Mr. Alexander van Servellen, Senior Consultant, Research Intelligence Elsevier SEA https://up-edu.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZAqc-GpqTsrHdd2aHGn5jZ1PWe_es8EQVsO 23 February, Tuesday 9:00 – 10:30 a.m. – Everything You Need to Know About EBSCO Academic Search Complete Facilitator: Mr. Bonneth Siguisabal, Information Consultant, EBSCO International, Inc. https://up-edu.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZAtd-mtqTIuGtSYQ3hpmpcrgXmB_mdNQnc2 1:00 – 2:30 p.m. – Productive Research with ProQuest Facilitator: Ms. Kurinji Malar Kaliappan, Customer Experience Training and Consulting Partner, ProQuest Information and Learning Ltd. https://up-edu.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZMldeigqzMtG9AWjqtf8ux-5Ogm7YfORYtK 3:00 – 5:00 p.m. – Cambridge Core: The Home of Academic Content Facilitator: Ms. Caroline Kerbyson, Training and Systems Manager, Cambridge University Press https://up-edu.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZ0sf-igqj8jH9R1heCLoNvZUBJztLQOuGc 24 February, Wednesday 9:00 – 10:30 a.m. – Engaging Research with Emerald Premier E-Journal Facilitator: Ms. Sarah Diane Enriquez, Solutions Specialists, CE Logic, Inc. https://up-edu.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZEqceGrqzsoHdB0Etobp4ZPSy0cfRxWjKEl 1:30 – 3:00 p.m. – Philippine E-Journals: A Treasure Trove of Resources Facilitator: Ms. Sarah Diane Enriquez, Solutions Specialists, CE Logic, Inc. https://up-edu.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZMrfuqpqj4vG9T0dmHXyxEkYvKj0G_K7gxI 26 February, Friday 8:30 – 10:00 a.m. – Scholarly Content with Springer Nature Journals Facilitator: Ms. Odessa Maceda, Licensing Manager, Philippines Springer Nature https://up-edu.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZYocOipqjguEtI6tWorUIPxdeo-CdjK_1uD 10:15 – 11:45 a.m. – Maximizing Your Research with Project MUSE Facilitator: Ms. Cassandra Seow, SEA Representative for Project MUSE https://up-edu.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZUkdOqvpjsjHdRTR9KReZsOVRcl1PaWQm1F 1:00 – 2:30 p.m. – Teaching and Research with Taylor and Francis Online Facilitator: Ms. Quinie Lim, Senior Marketing Executive, Taylor & Francis Group https://up-edu.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZ0tdeytrzMtEtDQ8MWFkUWVw1GV1xu0GfUD 3:00 – 4:30 p.m. – Transitioning to a New Normal in Education with JSTOR Facilitator: Ms. Sarah Diane Enriquez, Solutions Specialists, CE Logic, Inc. https://up-edu.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZAtd-itpjMjE9Si-tNRfZ3GSY1xQy4vu1iZ Download the schedule of the webinar series in PDF format here. |
https://up.edu.ph/up-advocates-mental-health-promotion-in-the-teaching-and-learning-environment/ | UP advocates Mental Health Promotion in the Teaching and Learning Environment – University of the Philippines | UP advocates Mental Health Promotion in the Teaching and Learning Environment UP advocates Mental Health Promotion in the Teaching and Learning Environment May 14, 2021 | Posted by UP Media and Public Relations Office In this pandemic, college mental health focal persons will play critical roles in responding to students’ mental health (MH) concerns and coping needs. In the University of the Philippines, college mental health focal persons are UP faculty members and Student Affairs staff who can advocate MH care in classes and other teaching-learning contexts. At least 240 participants have registered in the 2nd semester AY 2020-2021. The UP Office of the Vice President for Academic Affairs and Office of Student Financial Assistance (OVPAA-OSFA) started the Sandigan, Sandalan: Training and Advocacy programs for Mental Health in March 2021 to provide practical knowledge on Mental Health Promotion. The Training Program on Mental Health Promotion in the Teaching-Learning Environment is now in its 3rd Batch run for the 2nd semester AY 2020-2021. The training team is led by Asst. Prof. Maria Angela Mabale, MA, RN (College of Nursing, UP Manila), and Mr. Airon Andrew Bonifacio, RND (College of Home Economics, UP Diliman). The program resource persons include Rowalt Alibudbud, MD (College of Liberal Arts, De La Salle University); Victoria Patricia De La Llana, MD (College of Medicine, UP Manila); Raymond John Naguit, MD (Youth for Mental Health Coalition); Eleanor Caballo, RGC (College of Arts and Science, UP Manila); and Blesile Mantaring, MD (Office of Student Affairs, UP Manila). In the previous batches, the training team emphasized the value of mental health in the University setting. According to Dr. Alibudbud, MH promotion leads to academic excellence because it enhances the capability of people to perform at their best leading to academic excellence. In class management, the team emphasized that MH promotion in remote learning requires rethinking the design of classes. While faculty members are focused on shifting to online delivery of knowledge and assessment, mental health promotion in teaching and learning should bring us back to what makes teaching and learning productive endeavors for students. Dr. Alibudbud emphasized that the teacher-student interaction in classes is a relationship. He reiterates the importance of building trust and empathy to nurture this relationship. Dr. Dela Llana highlighted that UP teachers are given a unique and special opportunity to be significant in the life journey of our students to help them find a semblance of meaning, relief, and connections in classrooms. Dealing with psychosocial concerns and problematic behavior is a crucial component of MH promotion in class management. The training team introduced systematic ways of handling students to assist participants in incorporating MH care in these situations. Ms. Carballo shared approaches on how to become an effective bridge for UP students struggling with psychosocial concerns. Dr. Mantaring described the value of a network of personnel who can support UP students in UP Manila. According to Dr. Naguit, the logic behind many of the recommendations provided in the training program is to translate compassion into concrete action steps. Speaking as a teacher and mental health service provider, Dr. Dela Llana highlighted that the last thing we want to do is make students feel that their emotions are wrong or that their feelings do not matter to us. Acknowledging that UP faculty members themselves also face mental health concerns, Asst. Prof. Mabale highlighted the evolving nature of MH promotion in teaching contexts. During the community forums with participants and resource persons, Mr. Bonifacio emphasized that if we are to become advocates of mental health, we should also be able to apply MH concepts, such as self-care, to our respective situations. The experience will require exploring and learning. According to Asst. Prof. Mabale, advocating MH in remote learning could be viewed as a challenge to rediscover new ways of coping as well as new ways of taking care of ourselves. The 3rd run of the Training Program on Mental Health Promotion in the Teaching-Learning Environment began on 11 May 2021 to accommodate the college mental health focal persons from all constituent universities of UP. This program is UP’s way to build a community of college mental focal persons with the capacity to advocate mental health care in the University. Should you have inquiries, you may contact the OVPAA-OSFA at wellness.osfa@up.edu.ph. |
https://up.edu.ph/sandigan-sandalan-training-and-advocacy-program-for-mental-health-to-be-held-in-june/ | Sandigan, Sandalan training and advocacy program for mental health to be held in June – University of the Philippines | Sandigan, Sandalan training and advocacy program for mental health to be held in June Sandigan, Sandalan training and advocacy program for mental health to be held in June June 8, 2021 | Posted by UP Media and Public Relations Office In this pandemic, mental health (MH) advocates play a crucial role in creating a nurturing community in the University of the Philippines (UP). MH advocates are UP faculty members, Student Affairs personnel, and students who can champion MH promotion in the different teaching-learning environments. Together with MH professionals, MH advocates comprise the University’s Mental Health and Wellness Network that can respond to the MH concerns and coping needs of UP students. To strengthen this network, the UP Office of the Vice President for Academic Affairs and Office of Student Financial Assistance (OVPAA-OSFA) is once again organizing the Sandigan, Sandalan: Training and Advocacy Programs for Mental Health for the month of June. Training sessions have been scheduled on June 7, 14, 21 and 28. One of the components of the Sandigan, Sandalan is the Peer Support Training on Mental Health Promotion for UP students. Student MH advocates or kaSandalan are nominated members of student councils, student organizations, and student groups who can champion MH care among their peers. To be effective advocates, kaSandalan should be aware of the importance of MH promotion and actions to create a nurturing environment with their peers. The Peer Support Training is an online program on MH promotion and community forums where participants can interact with other advocates and invited MH experts. The program covers: (1) general mental health information; (2) ways on how students can help their peers; (3) promotion of safe and resilient school environments; and, (4) participation in MH advocacy in the University. The training team is led by Dan Paolo Yema (College of Arts and Sciences, UP Los Baños) and Maria Rowena Beatriz Inzon (Office of Student Activities, UP Los Baños). The program resource persons include: Dr. Rowalt Alibudbud (College of Liberal Arts, De La Salle University); Dr. Victoria Patricia De La Llana (College of Medicine, UP Manila); Dr. Raymond John Naguit (Youth for Mental Health Coalition); Eleanor Caballo, RGC (College of Arts and Science, UP Manila); and, Dr. Blesile Mantaring (Office of Student Affairs, UP Manila). The Sandigan, Sandalan program started on 31 May 2021. For inquiries, please contact the OVPAA-OSFA at wellness.osfa@up.edu.ph. |
https://up.edu.ph/the-up-system-town-hall-session-for-ay-2020-2021/ | The UP System Town Hall Session for AY 2020-2021 – University of the Philippines | The UP System Town Hall Session for AY 2020-2021 The UP System Town Hall Session for AY 2020-2021 February 21, 2021 | Posted by UP Media and Public Relations Office The UP Office of the Vice President for Academic Affairs presents Town Hall, an online session to inform UP students regarding preparations for the Academic Year 2020-2021, and an opportunity for the Academic and Student Affairs personnel to address pressing concerns of students in remote learning mode on February 23, 2021, 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM, via Zoom. Kindly register through this link: https://up-edu.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_0pWoBXtkQlOoSkQ2OPjRKw Registration before February 22, 2021, 6:00 pm is highly encouraged. For inquiries, you may contact UP OVPAA-OSFA: wellness.osfa@up.edu.ph |
https://up.edu.ph/up-uses-the-rankings-feedback-to-pursue-directions/ | UP uses THE rankings feedback to pursue directions – University of the Philippines | UP uses THE rankings feedback to pursue directions UP uses THE rankings feedback to pursue directions September 10, 2021 | Written by Jo. Florendo B. Lontoc Graduating students in UP Baguio raise their right hands while reciting the alumni pledge. UP MPRO 2019 file photo. The University of the Philippines took stock of its performance in the last Times Higher Education-World University Rankings (THE-WUR) edition to understand the setbacks in the rankings and address them accordingly as the country’s flagship university. UP slipped from the 401st-500th bracket of the top 1,526 universities in the 2021 THE-WUR edition to the 601st-800th bracket of the top 1,662 universities in the 2022 edition because of lower scores in the criteria of teaching, international outlook, and citation, which are three of five primary criteria. UP remains among the top ASEAN universities and the highest-ranking Philippine university. Globally, UP’s THE ranking is bracketed alongside other distinguished universities such as the University of Alabama, University of Houston, Keio University, Kobe University, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, University of Maryland-Baltimore, Université du Québec, University of Rome, and the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee (THE, 2021). In terms of teaching, where out of 100, UP’s score dipped from 23.5 to 22.6, the UP Office of the Vice President for Academic Affairs (OVPAA) said it was affected by a decrease in the number of graduates. This, the office said, can be attributed to the implementation of the Department of Education’s K-12 program. Based on its assessment, UP will recover its teaching or learning environment score only after the 2023 THE-WUR, with a usual number of graduates. This will be combined with the efforts to increase the ratio of PhDs to academic staff, its staff to student ratio, and the institutional income. UP’s international outlook score, which went from 33.4 to 33.1, was due to restrictions in hiring foreign faculty and enrolling foreign undergraduate students, the OVPAA added. The University thus remains in pursuit of contractual appointment of foreigners as regular faculty with the same teaching, research, and publication requirements as Filipinos. It is also working to institutionalize cross-appointments. In addition, UP is expecting more foreign students as it organizes Asia Pacific Rim University’s (APRU) student mobility programs in October 2022. UP said its citation score decreased from 86.7 to 74.3, despite an overall increase in publications over the years, because of the time lag between publication and citation. The OVPAA added that data for publications from international collaboration, which bears more weight than national collaborations and single authorships in the citation score, were still unavailable for submission to THE for its 2022 rankings. Despite the lower citation score, UP managed to stay at number four in ASEAN in citation scores after securing the number one spot in the previous year. UP’s encouragement of more international collaborative research should address the lower citation score. This kind of research correlates with high citation scores in THE. The OVPAA said that this notwithstanding, the University is conscious of avoiding the pitfalls of past collaborative projects. UP hopes to sustain the increase in publications in general arising from its research. Research is a significant criterion where UP improved its score, from 16 to 17.5. The University also improved in terms of industry income, from 39.5 to 41.7. |
https://up.edu.ph/up-student-orgs-present-mental-health-advocacy-projects-for-world-mental-health-day/ | UP student orgs present mental health advocacy projects for World Mental Health Day – University of the Philippines | UP student orgs present mental health advocacy projects for World Mental Health Day UP student orgs present mental health advocacy projects for World Mental Health Day October 8, 2021 | Posted by UP Media and Public Relations Office With the stress, anxiety, and chaos of living in the 21st century, the issue of mental health has never been more critical. And especially in this pandemic, populations and communities are facing difficulties in terms of mental health investment and making mental health services open and accessible to many. The University of the Philippines (UP) joins the global celebration of World Mental Health Day on October 10 as declared by the World Health Organization. This year’s celebration takes on the slogan “Mental health care for all: let’s make it a reality,” in recognition of the need to scale up quality mental health services at all levels and to find new ways of providing mental health care to the people. In keeping as well with Proclamation No. 452, which designates every second week of October as National Mental Health Week, the UP Office of the Vice President for Academic Affairs (OVPAA) and Office of Student Financial Assistance (OSFA) launched the “Sandigan, Sandalan: Training and Advocacy Programs for Mental Health.” One of the component projects of the “Sandigan, Sandalan” initiative is the Search for UP Student Mental Health Advocacy Projects, a UP System-wide search for innovative mental health (MH) promotion ideas from eligible student organizations and groups. This project also aims to transform students into active partners for mental health promotion in the University, thus helping to create a network of advocates for a healthy and nurturing UP. The end result of the search is the top 10 mental health advocacy projects organized by student organizations across the UP System: UP Behavioral Science Society: October 2020 Mental Health Month Celebration, BehSci x Mental Health: Information Campaign Series on Mental Health Mars, Musta Ka Na?: Discussions on Mental Health Amidst the Pandemic; Samahan ng mga Mag-aaral ng Teknolohiyang Panlipunan UPLB DALUYONG: Bridging the Gaps of Isolation in these Trying Times; UP Medical Student for Social Responsibility AKAP: Psychological First Aid Workshop; UP Halycon- Halcyon Headlines; UPV- Partido sang Mainuswagon nga Bumulutho: Isip Mo Sagip Ko; Bookmark This: You Matter Bookmark Donation Drive; Association for Computing Machinery – UP Diliman Student Chapter Inc. Student Chapter Inc.: ACcoMpany; Family Life and Child Development Circle-Tahanan: Tayo-tayo para sa Pamilyang Pilipino; Philippine Association of Nutrition – Alpha Chapter: Mental Health Mondays; UP Bukluran sa Sikolohiyang Pilipino (UP Buklod-Isip), UP Psychology Society (UP PsychSoc), UP Psychological Understanding for Growth and Distinction Society (UP PUGAD Sayk), UP Diliman University Student Council, BUKLOD CSSP, and COPE UP – UP Mental Health Month UP Red Cross Youth – Kaakbay: Psychological First Aid and the Importance of Mental Health Care during COVID-19. Click here to view the series of video presentations of mental health projects and find out how UP students can help promote mental health in the University. #MentalHealthMonth #MentalHealthMatters #MentalHealthAdvocates #SandiganSandalan #UPCares #WeCare |
https://up.edu.ph/book-on-pandemic-surgery-to-be-virtually-launched-at-29th-up-stop-covid-deaths-webinar/ | Book on pandemic surgery to be virtually launched at 29th UP “STOP COVID DEATHS” webinar – University of the Philippines | Book on pandemic surgery to be virtually launched at 29th UP “STOP COVID DEATHS” webinar Book on pandemic surgery to be virtually launched at 29th UP “STOP COVID DEATHS” webinar November 3, 2020 | Written by Celeste Ann Castillo Llaneta For its 29th installment, the University of the Philippines’ (UP) “STOP COVID DEATHS” webinar series is doing something special: holding the very first Virtual National Book Launch on Pandemic Surgery. The book to be launched virtually on November 6, Friday, at 12:00 noon is Pandemic Surgery: An Integrated Ethics and Technical Reference. It was conceived as a complementary volume to the earlier published handbook containing procedural guidelines for staff of the UP Philippine General Hospital (UP-PGH). This book on pandemic surgery aims to provide the conceptual basis for the corresponding structural and procedural adjustments in surgical care during a pandemic. The material was developed and written by faculty and residents of the Department of Surgery of the UP College of Medicine (UPCM); and it was extensively reviewed by practicing surgeons, academics, and advocates. It is meant to be of value to surgical administrators, clinicians, and trainees at the UP-PGH, as well as in most other local institutions. While the coverage is extensive, the provided material, for purposes of conciseness and relevance, is admittedly not exhaustive. The editors are aware that a lot remains unknown regarding SARS-CoV-2 as well as the actual effectiveness of COVID-19 measures. The ebook can be downloaded here: bit.ly/PandemicSurgeryBook Presentors at this special virtual book-launch edition of the UP “STOP COVID DEATHS” webinar series are: Dr. Alvin Caballes, Professor at the Department of Surgery and Chief of the Social Medicine Unit, UPCM; and, Dr. Marie Carmela Lapitan, likewise Professor at the UPCM Department of Surgery. Reactors at the event are: Dr. Roy Trinidad, President of the Philippine College of Surgeons (PCS) Panay Chapter; and Dr. Rhoel de Leon, past President of the PCS Northern Mindanao Chapter. Dr. Charlotte Chiong, Dean of UPCM, will deliver the welcome remarks; while Dr. Gerardo Legaspi, UP-PGH Director will give the opening remarks. Dr. Jose Antonio Salud, PCS President, will deliver the closing remarks. The UP “STOP COVID DEATHS” webinar series is produced by the University of the Philippines in partnership with the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) and the UP Manila National Institutes of Health-National Telehealth Center, in cooperation with the UP Manila College of Medicine and the UP-PGH. This special edition of the webinar series is co-sponsored by the Philippine College of Surgeons. Registration slots are limited, so sign up now at bit.ly/StopCOVIDDeathsWebinar29 |
https://up.edu.ph/up-webinar-to-focus-on-oral-cancer-treatment-in-the-time-of-covid-19/ | UP webinar to focus on oral cancer treatment in the time of COVID-19 – University of the Philippines | UP webinar to focus on oral cancer treatment in the time of COVID-19 UP webinar to focus on oral cancer treatment in the time of COVID-19 December 16, 2020 | Posted by UP Media and Public Relations Office Oral cancer is the 8th leading type of cancer in the Philippines. According to World Health Organization (WHO) data published in 2018, oral cancer deaths make up 0.51% of the total deaths in the country. Lip cancer, a specific type of oral cancer, develops from abnormal cells that grow out of control and form lesions or tumors on the lips, creating thin, flat cells that line the lips, mouth, tongue, cheeks, sinuses, throat, hard and soft palates. Lip cancer is notorious as a rapidly growing type of tumor of the head and neck, if it is not diagnosed and treated early. Certain lifestyle choices can increase the risk of developing lip cancer, including tobacco use, heavy alcohol intake, and excessive sun exposure. Treatment includes performing a biopsy and imaging tests, followed by surgery, chemotherapy or radiotherapy. To begin with, these options are already difficult and often inaccessible for poor patients, but the COVID-19 pandemic has made receiving oral cancer treatment even more challenging. The 35th installment of the University of the Philippines’ (UP) webinar series “STOP COVID DEATHS: VIRTUAL GRAND ROUNDS”, which will be held on Friday, December 18 at 12:00 noon, will focus on the case of a “Farmer with Rapidly Growing Lip Tumor”. Farmers are at high risk of developing oral cancer due to constant exposure to the sun for prolonged periods of time. In this case, an 81-year old female farmer from Mindanao noticed a patchy discoloration on her face that quickly progressed into a tumor around her lips. Due to COVID-19 restrictions, she was unable to consult a doctor. The tumor has rapidly worsened, and she is finally seen to by a physician in the Doctors to the Barrios program. Dr. Mike Gianan, a Doctor to the Barrio working in Zamboanga Del Norte, will explain the details of the case, while Dr. Christine Joy Arquiza, Clinical Associate Professor at the Department of Otorhinolaryngology of the UP Philippine General Hospital (PGH) will be the discussant. Dr. Nodel Nodora, Technical Officer of the WHO-Western Pacific Region Office will be the reactor. Opening remarks will be delivered by Dr. Anthony Cordero, Director of the UP Manila Community Health Development Program, while UP Manila Chancellor Dr. Carmencita Padilla will give the closing remarks. The “STOP COVID DEATHS: VIRTUAL GRAND ROUNDS” webinar series is organized by UP in partnership with the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) and the UP Manila NIH National Telehealth Center, in cooperation with the UP College of Medicine and the UP-PGH. Register now: bit.ly/StopCOVIDDeathsWebinar35 |
https://up.edu.ph/blazing-a-trail-in-the-digital-landscape/ | Blazing a trail in the digital landscape – University of the Philippines | Blazing a trail in the digital landscape Blazing a trail in the digital landscape May 28, 2018 | Written by Arlyn VCD Palisoc Romualdo UP Open University (UPOU) Networks is the first of its kind in the country, perhaps even in Southeast Asia. It’s certainly the first among member institutions in the Asian Association of Open Universities. UPOU Networks is an online repository of multimedia learning materials, both open and proprietary, produced by the University. And in this day and age, when the Internet releases tons of data faster than you can say “information superhighway,” wouldn’t you like to learn from a reliable source? Examples of UP-produced open educational resources found inside the UPOU Commons, which is only one of four sections inside UPOU Networks Creating content, sharing knowledge Describing the uniqueness of UPOU Networks, UPOU Chancellor Melinda Bandalaria says that “This is not just an index or listing of links to learning materials, which is quite common. This is a collection of UP-created content which we are disseminating online and sharing with everyone.” For UPOU Information Office Director Joane Serrano, who was also director of the UPOU Multimedia Center until recently, the initiative allows the University to further contribute to the collective knowledge and content coming from the Global South. “We’re mostly consumers of learning objects from the Global North, especially open educational resources (OERs). This needs to be challenged. We need to work toward a level playing field,” Serrano says. The Center is involved in the production of most materials in UPOU Networks. So what does one get from UPOU Networks? Accessing networks.upou.edu.ph brings you a variety of content. UPOU Live is where lectures, symposia, research presentations, seminars, and other University events are broadcast in real time. UPOU On Record is a collection of podcasts and other audio materials. UPOU Commons is where OERs are housed under a Creative Commons license. UPOU Mix contains learning objects in various formats and on different topics. Pushing for genuine openness The UN Sustainable Development Goal 4 is “to ensure inclusive and equitable quality education and promote lifelong learning opportunities for all.” The UN Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) has identified OERs as strategic in improving access to quality education. UPOU, whose leadership in open and distance e-learning has been recognized by law through the Open and Distance Learning Act, fully supports these global initiatives by pioneering the OER movement in the country. “Not many people in the Philippines know about OERs, which is why the University needs to work even harder for this revolutionary education movement to take root and prosper,” Serrano continues. From left to right, some members of the UPOU Multimedia Center, the office behind UPOU Networks: University Researcher Luisa Gelisan, Information Systems Researcher Edison Sevillo, and Director Joane Serrano (Photo by Misael Bacani, UP MPRO) Admittedly, there’s some resistance from those who feel OERs run contrary to the protection of intellectual property rights. This perceived conflict seems to be one of the biggest challenges facing the progress of the OER movement in the country. And universities need to strike a balance between both if they wish to remain relevant in the global pursuit of quality education for all. As for UPOU, it will continue to create and advocate the use of OERs not only to educate but to enrich knowledge through sharing, collaboration, and creation. Moving for greater accessibility Accessibility continues to be one of the main issues surrounding quality education. There’s a digital divide between the technology-rich and technology-poor. And even within the group with digital technology is the issue of inclusive access. Can everyone “read” your content? Can everyone navigate your website or mobile application with ease? Early this year, UPOU embarked on a mission to widen access to its resources through its Universal and Inclusive Accessibility Program, which covers “all aspects of [its] academic and administrative functions and services.” It aims to adhere to UNESCO’s Guidelines on the Inclusion of Learners with Disabilities in Open and Distance Learning. For UPOU Networks, this means improvements in readability across different devices and browsers as well as varying availability of computer peripherals. UPOU Networks houses the learning materials of the e-Service Management Program, a massive open online course offered by UPOU. Edison Sevillo, an information systems researcher at the UPOU Multimedia Center, explains that readability requires design flexibility, where a website conforms to the size of the screen, whether it is a computer monitor, a tablet, or a smartphone. “We must also be logical and methodical in creating a smooth flow of tabbing sequences for those who don’t have or use a mouse or whose track pad isn’t working,” Sevillo says. He adds that among other accessibility solutions, they are also exploring text-to-speech options for those who are visually impaired. The UPOU Networks mobile application was recently released as another initiative to further promote access to the online repository of learning materials. “It really needed to be user-friendly with just a few clicks or taps and fewer swipes, etc.,” Sevillo says. UP led open and distance education in the country with the establishment of UPOU in 1995. Over the last two decades, technological advancements have changed how information is shared and retrieved, and how teaching and learning are done. And UP isn’t only keeping pace. With UPOU Networks, it’s making a distinct mark on Philippine education in the digital age. |
https://up.edu.ph/upou-sharing-educational-resources-and-courses-for-free-since-2010/ | UPOU sharing educational resources and courses for free since 2010 – University of the Philippines | UPOU sharing educational resources and courses for free since 2010 UPOU sharing educational resources and courses for free since 2010 October 2, 2020 | Posted by UP Media and Public Relations Office As the country’s leading academic institution in open learning and distance education, the University of the Philippines Open University (UPOU) adheres to the philosophy of open education and has been a staunch advocate of Open Educational Resources (OERs) and open access courses. As early as 2012, the UPOU has crafted its OER policies and has put in place strategies to promote, support, contribute and integrate OER values in its institutional processes and practices. OERs, as defined by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) in 2012, are “teaching, learning and research materials in any medium, digital or otherwise, that reside in the public domain or have been released under an open license that permits no-cost access, use, adaptation and redistribution by others with no or limited restrictions. Open licensing is built within the existing framework of intellectual property rights as defined by relevant international conventions and respects the authorship of the work.” OERs play a pivotal role in achieving the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and specifically Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 4 which calls on the international community to “ensure inclusive and equitable quality education and promote lifelong learning opportunities for all.” Recognizing the transformative potential of OERs in achieving SDG 4, UPOU continues to produce free educational resources in various formats. These free educational resources are housed in the UPOU Commons under the UPOU Networks, an online repository of all UPOU-produced multimedia resources. Through the UPOU Networks, the university is able to provide free access to a plethora of knowledge in various multimedia formats such as publications, videos, animations, web-streamed lectures, presentations, seminars, university events, and podcasts. The UPOU Networks is now the university’s window to the world where communal interaction happens both in real-time during scheduled webinars and asynchronously through recorded multimedia materials. This is in line with UPOU’s thrust as a Public Service university, its vision for “Pamantasang Bukas Para sa Magandang Bukas,” and its mandate in Republic Act 10650 (Open and Distance Learning Act) as the lead institution to promote best practices for open and distance learning in the country. Since 2010, there are at least 700 learning resources uploaded on the UPOU Networks. The UPOU Networks can be accessed via https://networks.upou.edu.ph/. Additionally, UPOU started exploring Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCs) as early as 2011 and offered its first MOOC in 2013. With this, UPOU was the first university in the Philippines to offer not just OERs but also MOOCs, which are free online courses intended for unlimited participation. More than accommodating thousands in enrollment, UPOU has emphasized the “openness” of these courses. UPOU recognizes the potential of MOOCs to meet the demands of a changing educational landscape, to reach a wider audience, to make education more open and accessible, and to promote lifelong learning. UPOU has been developing and offering a number of MOOCs through its platform, the Massive Open Distance e-Learning (MODeL, https://model.upou.edu.ph). These courses have allowed UPOU to cater to lifelong learners, career shifters, out-of-school youth, alternative learning system students, and overseas Filipino workers (OFWs). From 2013, there have been more than 80 courses offered via the UPOU MODeL, and has accommodated almost 70,000 learners. As the pioneer and the first university in the Philippines to offer fully online courses, UPOU has been a keen advocate on the use of technology-enhanced learning to deliver its courses to a wide range of learners, especially to learners not normally reached by a University of the Philippines (UP) campus and the conventional educational system. It encourages and supports the creation of open educational and training materials for its academic programs and community extension work. With these values, it recognized the use of OERs and offering of MOOCs as key to its mandate to promote lifelong learning and provide access to quality education through the use of distance education materials and technologies. Creating, using, and promoting OERs and offering MOOCs are just two of the programs UPOU implements to advocate not only access but also equity in quality education. UPOU has unique brands of public service aimed to widen access to continuing professional education, provide digital opportunities to local communities, foster critical discussion of relevant issues in the community and society, and provide technical assistance to higher education institutions (HEIs), local governments, people’s organizations, and civil society. Written by Joane V. Serrano, PhD |
https://up.edu.ph/upou-hosts-conversations-on-cognitive-innovation-and-multidisciplinary-research-training/ | UPOU hosts conversations on cognitive innovation and multidisciplinary research training – University of the Philippines | UPOU hosts conversations on cognitive innovation and multidisciplinary research training UPOU hosts conversations on cognitive innovation and multidisciplinary research training September 25, 2018 | Written by UP Media and Public Relations Office The University of the Philippines Open University (UPOU) invites the UP community to its Research Conversations: “Where do new ideas come from? Cognitive Innovation and Multidisciplinary Research Training” with Prof. Sue Denham, Professor of Cognitive and Computational Neuroscience in University of Plymouth, United Kingdom. The activity will be held at the Audio Visual Room of the DICT Building in UP Diliman, and online via http://networks.upou.edu.ph/ on 15 November 2018, 9AM. Sue Denham is a professor in Cognitive and Computational Neuroscience, a former Director of the Cognition Institute and co-ordinator of Cognitive Innovation (CogNovo), is an expert in neural and cognitive models of perception, especially multi-stability in auditory perceptual organisation. Prof. Denham’s talk is part of the Research Conversations series at UP Open University, presented by the Office of the Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs and the Faculty of Information and Communication Studies. RSVP for food and seating here. Watch the talk live at UPOU Networks |
https://up.edu.ph/upou-webinar-on-preparing-for-new-normal-set/ | UPOU webinar on preparing for new normal set – University of the Philippines | UPOU webinar on preparing for new normal set UPOU webinar on preparing for new normal set May 26, 2020 | Written by Arlyn VCD Palisoc Romualdo UPOU webinar on preparing for new normal set With the gradual easing of restrictions across the country, everyone has been bracing for the new way of life. Minimum health standards have to be complied with: physical distancing, regular disinfection and decontamination, good hygiene, and wearing of facial masks. All these to ensure physical health amid the threat of COVID-19. But what about psychosocial health? Experts on mental and emotional well-being have been giving tips on how to cope with extended periods of isolation, but as society transitions into the new normal, the need to prepare oneself for post-quarantine life has also emerged. In “Capacitating Oneself for the New Normal,” Dr. Emely Dicolen and Prof. Finaflor Taylan of the Social Work Program of the UP Open University (UPOU) Faculty of Management and Development Studies (FMDS) will talk about “Appreciative Resilience in Times of Crisis” and “Gender Perspective and Psychosocial Support and Well-being,” respectively. This is the upcoming episode of the UPOU’s “Let’s Talk it Over” webinar series and was organized by the Social Work Program of FMDS. The event will be streamed online on May 27 via UPOU Networks. Go to networks.upou.edu.ph to register for the web streaming. |
https://up.edu.ph/upou-to-hold-being-and-becoming-adaptable-parents-and-teachers-webinar/ | UPOU to hold “Being and Becoming Adaptable Parents and Teachers” webinar – University of the Philippines | UPOU to hold “Being and Becoming Adaptable Parents and Teachers” webinar UPOU to hold “Being and Becoming Adaptable Parents and Teachers” webinar July 27, 2020 | Written by Arlyn VCD Palisoc Romualdo If you are parents or teachers of K-12 students who feel apprehensive about the planned shift in education delivery due to the pandemic, UP Open University’s (UPOU) webinar may help you cope with the upcoming changes in teaching and learning. “Being and Becoming Adaptable Parents and Teachers” will be streamed live on UPOU Networks on July 30, 10:00 AM. It is part of the University’s webinar series, “Edu-Hack: Navigating a Turbulent Educational Landscape”. Resource speakers include: Dr. Rachel Red-Amparo, teacher and founder of Brainworks School; UP Los Baños Professor Kate Palma de Jesus, a homeschooling mom; and, Balaiwari founder and Chief Playmaker Gian Carlo de Jesus, a homeschooling dad. It will be moderated by UPOU Faculty of Education Professor J. Aleta Villanueva. To participate in the livestream event, register at https://networks.upou.edu.ph/podcast/. |
https://up.edu.ph/dagdag-stress-sa-covid-19-may-dagdag-suweldo-ba-ang-frontliners/ | “Dagdag Stress sa COVID-19: May Dagdag Suweldo ba ang Frontliners?” – University of the Philippines | “Dagdag Stress sa COVID-19: May Dagdag Suweldo ba ang Frontliners?” “Dagdag Stress sa COVID-19: May Dagdag Suweldo ba ang Frontliners?” March 3, 2021 | Written by Celeste Ann Castillo Llaneta After eleven months of fighting a global pandemic, our health frontliners are suffering from stress, fatigue and burnout from working long hours under extraordinarily challenging conditions. Filipino health workers in other parts of the world have been hailed for their heroism and perseverance where others have given up. Both within and outside of the country, frontline Filipino health workers have suffered severe illness and death. And yet, compensation packages for health workers have remained the same. The 43rd installment of the University of the Philippines’ webinar series, “Stop COVID Deaths”, is a special edition that aims to answer the question of “Dagdag Stress sa COVID-19: May Dagdag Suweldo ba ang Frontliners?” The webinar will focus on how to solve the urgent and critical need to maintain the health of Filipino health workers; and to compensate them well for their selfless and courageous service in the face of a shortage of health human resources and the embarrassingly and relatively low wages given to frontline workers in the Philippines, when compared to neighboring countries in the ASEAN and the rest of the world. It will be held on Friday, March 5, 2021, at 12nn. Registration slots are limited, so sign up now at bit.ly/StopCOVIDDeathsWebinar43 Resource speakers during the webinar will talk about compensation packages for health care workers, not just for the pandemic but for current and future needs to achieve universal health coverage. Dr. Ernesto Pernia, UP Professor Emeritus and former Secretary, National Economic and Development Authority, will serve as the main presenter. The reactors will be: Dr. Carlo Panelo, Professor at the UP College of Medicine Department of Clinical Epidemiology; Dr. Carlos Naval, a private practitioner at the Galileo SurgiCenter; and, Dr. Rafael Marfori, Assistant Program Leader of the Philippine Primary Care Studies. Opening remarks will be delivered by UP Vice President for Finance Dr. Lisa Bersales, while UP Manila Chancellor Dr. Carmencita Padilla will give the closing remarks. The “Stop COVID Deaths” webinar series is organized by UP in partnership with UP Manila NIH National Telehealth Center and in cooperation with UP Philippine General Hospital. |
https://up.edu.ph/how-will-health-workers-be-vaccinated-against-covid-19/ | “How Will Health Workers Be Vaccinated Against COVID-19?” – University of the Philippines | “How Will Health Workers Be Vaccinated Against COVID-19?” “How Will Health Workers Be Vaccinated Against COVID-19?” February 10, 2021 | Written by Fred Dabu Join the next University of the Philippines (UP) webinar on “How Will Health Workers Be Vaccinated Against COVID-19?” on Friday, 12 February 2021, 12 noon, as hospital administrators and medical experts explain how healthcare and frontline workers in hospitals across the archipelago will be vaccinated and protected against COVID-19. Dr. Gerardo “Gap” Legaspi, Director of the UP Philippine General Hospital (PGH), will share plans for vaccination among staff. Dr. Lito Acuin, Hospital Chief of the Asian Medical Center, will discuss what they will do in private hospitals. And Dr. Christina Padolina, City Health Officer of Navotas City, will talk about local governments’ plans for rolling out the vaccine for health workers at the primary and secondary levels. The resource speakers will provide us with details on how the required two doses of COVID-19 vaccines will be administered in public and private hospitals, health centers, and related facilities. They will also present other preparations for vaccine roll-out, including transportation and cold chain requirements for continuous vaccination of their staff. Dr. Charlotte Chiong, Dean of the UP College of Medicine, and Dr. Carmencita D. Padilla, Chancellor of UP Manila, will also share their insights during the webinar. The “Stop Covid Deaths” webinar series is organized by UP in partnership with UP Manila National Institutes of Health – National Telehealth Center, and in cooperation with UP PGH. To participate in this webinar, sign up at: bit.ly/StopCOVIDDeathsWebinar40. |
https://up.edu.ph/a-surge-in-covid-19-cases-up-webinar-takes-on-the-important-questions/ | A surge in COVID-19 cases? UP webinar takes on the important questions – University of the Philippines | A surge in COVID-19 cases? UP webinar takes on the important questions A surge in COVID-19 cases? UP webinar takes on the important questions March 11, 2021 | Written by Celeste Ann Castillo Llaneta Over the past week, there has been an increase in the numbers of people testing positive for COVID-19. On March 9, the country’s COVID-19 case count breached the 600,000 mark, with Octa Research fellow Dr. Guido David saying that COVID-19 cases in virus epicenter Metro Manila are climbing faster than expected and reports from hospitals showing an increase in admissions. What do these increases in case numbers mean and why are they happening now? And with these increases happening while vaccination programs are being rolled out in hospitals and health workers getting their shots, are frontliners safer now that there is a vaccine? How is the vaccination program doing in the face of the case number increases? The 44th installment of the University of the Philippines’ (UP) “Stop COVID Deaths” webinar series is a National Virtual Town Hall Meeting for Hospitals. The webinar, titled “IS THERE A SURGE? May COVID-19 Vaccine Na, May Maiiba Ba?”, will take a closer look at the increasing number of cases and how hospitals are coping. It will be held on Friday, March 12, 2021, at 12 noon. The main presentation will be given by Dr. Gerardo “Gap” Legaspi, Director of the UP Philippine General Hospital (UP-PGH). Reactors include Dr. Vincent Balanag, Executive Director of the Philippine Lung Center; Dr. Fritz Famaran, Chief of Hospital of the Jose Rodriguez Hospital; and Dr. Nina Berba, infectious disease specialist from the UP College of Medicine and PGH. Opening remarks will be delivered by Dr. Teodoro J. Herbosa, UP System Executive Vice President and Special Adviser of the National Task Force on COVID-19, while the closing remarks will be given by Dr. Carmencita D. Padilla, Chancellor of UP Manila. Register for this special edition of the UP Stop COVID Deaths webinar series here: bit.ly/StopCOVIDDeathsWebinar44 |
https://up.edu.ph/hope-and-heroes-in-u-p-s-online-video-festival/ | Hope and heroes in U.P.’s online video festival – University of the Philippines | Hope and heroes in U.P.’s online video festival Hope and heroes in U.P.’s online video festival October 21, 2020 | Posted by UP Media and Public Relations Office Short videos on everyday heroism and hope in the days of face masks and social distancing are the focus of PAG-AALAY webXHIBITION & FESTIVAL. The University of the Philippines is now accepting entries to the online video series in the categories of narrative, documentary, animation, experimental, virtual/augmented reality, and music video. Winners will be presented “Pag-aalay” trophies which were specially handcrafted by multi-talented U.P. artist and UPTV Director Dr. Grace Javier Alfonso. The trophy presents two silver hands offering a world enveloped in katakataka leaves, the same plant sculpted at the base of the U.P. Oblation. Also known as wonder plant and miracle leaf, katakataka is a hardy plant that thrives nearly everywhere it is thrown. On the trophy it symbolizes patriotism, with the Philippines engraved among its leaves. The trophy and cash prizes in each category will be awarded in a virtual Video Festival Awards Night later this year: P15,000 for the first prize, P10,000 for second prize, P7,000 for third prize, along with a special Chooks-To-Go People’s Choice Award. The festival is seeking entries that capture the changing times and the selfless acts and offerings of hope that go with them. The short videos do not necessarily have to focus on the university system, but may look at different people and their lives through the pandemic. “Committing these stories and experiences to film is not only to honor the subject’s heroism but also instill hope and determination in the filmmaker and the audiences it will reach. The global pandemic is a shared experience which no one can come out of unaffected,” said UP President Danilo L. Concepcion. With the theme “Pag-aalay sa Panahon ng Pandemya,” the festival will have shortlisted videos featured on TVUP and streamed via TVUP’s Facebook page. Entries must have a total running time of 30 to 90 seconds, in a video format that can be easily uploaded to different social media platforms. Videos with duly accomplished Festival entry forms available on the TVUP Facebook Page can be submitted via email at television@up.edu.ph from now until 15 December 2020. PAG-AALAY is open to all Filipino filmmakers, amateur or professional, and to multimedia creators and artists. For complete submission guidelines, visit TVUP Facebook Page. Participants must observe all government-ordered health and safety requirements, quarantine regulations, and other community restrictions in the production of their videos. The PAG-AALAY webXHIBITION & FESTIVAL is brought to you by the University of the Philippines, Chooks-To-Go, UP College of Mass Communication, UP College of Music, UP College of Mass Communication Foundation, Inc., and TVUP. |
https://up.edu.ph/covid-19-frontliners-kamusta-na-kayo/ | COVID-19 frontliners, kamusta na kayo? – University of the Philippines | COVID-19 frontliners, kamusta na kayo? COVID-19 frontliners, kamusta na kayo? April 21, 2021 | Written by Celeste Ann Castillo Llaneta On Friday, 23 April, the University of the Philippines (UP) marks the one-year anniversary of the UP “Stop COVID Deaths” webinar series. The weekly series, which is held in partnership with the UP Manila NIH National Telehealth Center and in cooperation with the UP Philippine General Hospital (UP PGH), aims to overcome fear, promote good practices, and quickly disseminate to all health practitioners and facilities whatever is the evolving knowledge on management and treatment of COVID-19 based on the experience of the country’s leading clinicians, medical specialists and world-class experts in various fields. At the time of the series’ first webinar, close to 24 frontline doctors and nurses had already died from COVID-19. Today, over a year since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, we have racked up 945,000 cases of COVID-19, with over 16,000 deaths and over 141,000 currently active cases in the Philippines. More than a million overseas Filipino workers have returned, with more than 15,000 testing positive for SARS-CoV-2. Over a year later, the situation appears even grimmer than when it first began. For Filipino medical and healthcare frontliners, it has been over a year of relentless battling against the virus, of caring for patients, and risking their own health and well-being and even their lives. At no other point in time in recent human history have medical and health frontliners been subjected to the trauma of multiple deaths on a daily basis, the inability to comfort or touch patients or their family members, and loss within their own circle of co-workers, if not death in their families. For its 49th episode, the Stop COVID Deaths webinar series now asks: As our medical and healthcare frontliners move forward and persevere, how are they doing in terms of their own well-being? In this webinar, UP PGH Chair of Psychiatry and Behavioral Medicine, Dr. Anselmo Tronco, will lead the discussion on how frontliners seek and continue to find meaning in serving patients despite the adverse conditions they face. COVID-19 survivor and UP PGH spokesperson, Dr. Jonas del Rosario, will share his personal journey through COVID-19 and back, and how he has coped with the grief of losing both his parents to the pandemic. Mr. Ardie Lopez, who composed the anthem of the webinar (that recently won an award) will speak on his own expression of faith and hope in these difficult times. The webinar will be opened by Department of Health Secretary Francisco Duque III and UP President Danilo L. Concepcion, with UP Manila Chancellor Carmencita D. Padilla giving the closing remarks. Registration slots are limited to this special edition of the UP “Stop COVID Deaths” webinar series; so, sign up now at bit.ly/StopCOVIDDeathsWebinar49 |
https://up.edu.ph/prizes-up-for-short-videos-on-heroism-and-hope-in-time-of-pandemic/ | Prizes up for short videos on heroism and hope in time of pandemic – University of the Philippines | Prizes up for short videos on heroism and hope in time of pandemic Prizes up for short videos on heroism and hope in time of pandemic January 15, 2021 | Written by Jo. Florendo B. Lontoc The University of the Philippines is launching an online festival of short videos on the theme “Pag-aalay sa Panahon ng Pandemya” or everyday heroism and hope in a time of COVID-19, and calling on filmmakers to submit entries before January 30, 2021. Entries to the “Pag-aalay: Webxhibition and Festival” are eligible for P15,000, P10,000, and P7,000 prizes, and a special Chooks-To-Go People’s Choice Award, all with trophies, to be awarded in a virtual awards night in February 2021. The videos, which must run from 30 to 90 seconds, may fall under narrative, documentary, animation, experimental, virtual/augmented reality, or music video categories. They should be upload-able to different social media platforms. Shortlisted videos will be featured on TVUP, the Internet television network of UP, and streamed via TVUP’s Facebook page. The entries must be emailed to television@up.edu.ph, together with an accomplished festival entry form, which can be downloaded here: 2021 Video Festival Entry Form |
https://up.edu.ph/help-ayaw-magpabakuna-ni-lolo-at-lola/ | Help! Ayaw magpabakuna ni Lolo at Lola – University of the Philippines | Help! Ayaw magpabakuna ni Lolo at Lola Help! Ayaw magpabakuna ni Lolo at Lola June 2, 2021 | Posted by UP Media and Public Relations Office The roll-out of the COVID-19 vaccines continues, but recent evidence shows that only 11% of senior citizens choose to get vaccinated, despite the availability of vaccines. Why is the turnout so low? Is it fear of the side-effects? Is it the prospect of waiting in line for hours in the heat? How do we make it easy and convenient for Filipino senior citizens to get protection against COVID-19? The 55th episode of University of the Philippines’ “Stop COVID Deaths” webinar series, “HELP! Ayaw magpabakuna ni Lolo at Lola”, will dig deeper into vaccine hesitancy among senior citizens. The webinar will be held on Friday, 4 June 2021, at 12:00 noon. Those interested to watch may register at bit.ly/StopCOVIDDeathsWebinar55 In this webinar, Dr. Teodoro J. Herbosa, Special Adviser to the National Task Force on COVID-19, will share the latest data on the low engagement of seniors in vaccination programs. Dr. Shelley Ann F. De la Vega, gerontologist and head of the UP Manila-National Institutes of Health’s (UPM-NIH) Institute on Aging, will talk about the inconveniences and struggles that seniors endure to get vaccinated. Dr. Enrique T. Ona, Jr., former Department of Health secretary, will provide some reflections on how the system can be improved, while Dr. Lilian De Las Llagas, Commissioner on Higher Education, will provide the public health perspective on how coverage of senior citizens can be improved. In order to provide more insights on why most Filipino senior citizens refuse to be vaccinated, the audience is encouraged to share their experiences on vaccination of seniors in their households. The UP “Stop COVID Deaths” webinar series is organized by the University of the Philippines in partnership with the UPM-NIH National Telehealth Center, and in cooperation with the UP Philippine General Hospital. |
https://up.edu.ph/up-to-welcome-its-students-in-a-virtual-ceremony/ | UP to welcome its students in a virtual ceremony – University of the Philippines | UP to welcome its students in a virtual ceremony UP to welcome its students in a virtual ceremony September 15, 2021 | Written by Celeste Ann Castillo Llaneta It’s the start of a brand-new academic year at the University of the Philippines (UP), and it’s back to a semester of remote teaching and learning for a majority of UP students and faculty. Of course, with the new academic year come new possibilities, new opportunities to learn, and new friendships to be made, and AY 2021-2022 is no exception. To welcome its new first-year students and to welcome back its continuing students, the University of the Philippines will hold a System-wide assembly tomorrow, September 16, at 10:00 a.m. New and returning UP students will be officially greeted by UP President Danilo L. Concepcion, Student Regent Renee Louise Co, Vice President for Academic Affairs Ma. Cynthia Rose Bautista, and Assistant Vice President for Student Affairs Richard Philip Gonzalo. Students from all across the UP System will give video messages of inspiration plus lessons on how they survived the past year of remote learning amid community quarantines. There will also be a musical performance by the UP Concert Chorus. The UP System Welcome Assembly will be live-streamed via TVUP.ph and TVUP’s YouTube channel. All UP students from Baguio to Mindanao are invited to attend. |
https://up.edu.ph/vaccine-rollout-discussed-in-up-covid-forum/ | Vaccine rollout discussed in UP COVID forum – University of the Philippines | Vaccine rollout discussed in UP COVID forum Vaccine rollout discussed in UP COVID forum March 17, 2021 | Written by Jo. Florendo B. Lontoc Dr. Enrique Tayag of the Department of Health (DOH) is the featured resource person in the University of the Philippines (UP) webinar on the vaccine roll-out, “COVID-19 Vaccines: Naiinip Ka Na Ba?”, to be livestreamed on March 19, 2021 at 12 nn. With UP professor and DOH Technical Advisory Group member, Dr. Anna Ong Lim, and Dr. Gloria Baltazar, Director of the Bataan General Hospital and Medical Center as reactors, Tayag, a government epidemiologist who is currently Director of the DOH Knowledge Management and Information Technology Service, will discuss what the public can reasonably expect from the government’s vaccination roll-out program. Dr. Teodoro Herbosa, UP Executive Vice President and National Task Force on COVID-19 Special Adviser, and UP College of Medicine Dean Dr. Charlotte Chiong will also deliver experts’ remarks. The webinar aims to answer questions such as: How many Filipinos can be expected to be vaccinated this year? What is the projected time of vaccination for health workers and seniors? When will the general public start receiving vaccines? When will vaccines become commercially available? What are the roles of the local government unit and the private sector? What countries into vaccine production seem to be willing to collaborate with the Philippines to provide more supply at the earliest possible time? The webinar is the 45th in the series of weekly webinars titled “Stop COVID Deaths”, produced by UP in partnership with UP Manila National Institutes of Health-National Telehealth Center and in cooperation with UP Philippine General Hospital. Those who wish to participate may register at bit.ly/StopCOVIDDeathsWebinar45. If registration is already at full capacity, a YouTube Live broadcast will also be available on TVUP at http://tvup.ph and http://www.youtube.com/tvupph. |
https://up.edu.ph/up-to-hold-systemwide-welcome-ceremony-for-the-opening-of-academic-year-2020-2021/ | UP to hold Systemwide Welcome Ceremony for the opening of academic year 2020-2021 – University of the Philippines | UP to hold Systemwide Welcome Ceremony for the opening of academic year 2020-2021 UP to hold Systemwide Welcome Ceremony for the opening of academic year 2020-2021 September 6, 2020 | Posted by UP Media and Public Relations Office The University of the Philippines invites you to the welcome ceremony for the opening of Academic Year 2020-2021 on Wednesday, September 9, 2020 at 9:00 AM (Manila Time) via Zoom and YouTube. If you wish to participate via Zoom, please register at bit.ly/Students-Welcome-Webinar. You may also engage through YouTube livestream at https://youtu.be/FOD5RbUMfN0. New and returning students are encouraged to join this first UP Systemwide Welcome Ceremony. The University of the Philippines has chosen to prioritize everyone’s safety with the implementation of remote welcome ceremonies and orientation programs. We recognize this is a deviation from the norm, but we are committed to providing a robust onboarding experience with this new approach. |
https://up.edu.ph/up-webinar-to-discuss-the-countrys-outlook-in-the-next-12-months-under-covid-19/ | UP webinar to discuss the country’s outlook in the next 12 months under COVID-19 – University of the Philippines | UP webinar to discuss the country’s outlook in the next 12 months under COVID-19 UP webinar to discuss the country’s outlook in the next 12 months under COVID-19 April 7, 2021 | Written by Celeste Ann Castillo Llaneta Record increases in case numbers, crowded hospitals, new restrictions on movement, higher levels of fear and frustration. A month ago, it seemed as if things were improving for the country. Now, with soaring numbers of COVID-19 cases and the reinstitution of enhanced community quarantine protocols in the National Capital Region and four other provinces, as well as localized lockdowns in certain areas, it suddenly feels as if we are back to square one. What does the trend data tell us about the pandemic? What do we know about the spread of SARS-CoV-2 at the national and local levels? Will it get worse before it gets better? What about the economy? What can we expect in the coming months? How should families prepare for what is ahead? How should health workers prepare for what lies ahead? These are the questions the upcoming 47th episode of the University of the Philippines’ (UP) “Stop COVID Deaths” webinar series will attempt to answer. The next webinar will focus on “COVID-19 in the Philippines: What are the Scenarios for the Next 12 Months?”, and will open with a UP Economics professor, Dr. Toby Melissa Monsod, presenting a perspective on the economy. The main presenter is Dr. John Q. Wong, lead epidemiologist of the Inter-Agency Task Force (IATF); and reactors are an infectious disease specialist, Dr. Cybele Lara Abad from the UP Philippine General Hospital (UP-PGH), and a pulmonologist, Dr. Aileen David Wang of the UP College of Medicine. This special edition “Stop COVID Deaths” webinar will be held on 9 April 2021, Friday, 12:00 noon. Register now at bit.ly/StopCOVIDDeathsWebinar47 The “Stop COVID Deaths” webinar series is organized by the University of the Philippines in partnership with the UP Manila NIH National Telehealth Center, and in cooperation with the UP-PGH. |
https://up.edu.ph/up-webinar-to-focus-on-the-lgus-role-in-the-covid-19-vaccine-rollouts/ | UP webinar to focus on the LGU’s role in the COVID-19 vaccine rollouts – University of the Philippines | UP webinar to focus on the LGU’s role in the COVID-19 vaccine rollouts UP webinar to focus on the LGU’s role in the COVID-19 vaccine rollouts June 9, 2021 | Posted by UP Media and Public Relations Office More vaccines have arrived; move vaccines are coming. But while there is reason to be optimistic, the question remains: Are Filipinos prepared for this? When it comes to informing citizens where to go to register for vaccination schedules and how to prepare for vaccinations, local government units (LGUs) play the biggest role. LGUs manage the supply chain as well as the information campaign to generate demand for the vaccines. In “Is my LGU Prepared for Vaccine Roll-out? Part 2”, the 56th installment of the University of the Philippines’ (UP) “Stop COVID Deaths” webinar series, Dr. Peter Julian A. Cayton of the UP Pandemic Response Team and Associate Professor of the UP School of Statistics will present the stories behind the COVID-19 vaccination roll-out and implementation statistics. Representing the local government units in the National Capital Region (NCR) are Mayor Francis Javier M. Zamora of San Juan City and Dr. Christia S. Padolina of Navotas City. Mayor Maria Ofelia O. Alcantara of Tolosa, Leyte and Dr. Mariano Antonio T. Banzon of Balanga, Bataan, on the other hand, will give a picture of how things are going outside the NCR. Finally, the private sector outlook and the importance of strategic communication will be offered by Ms. Margot B. Torres, Chair of the Task Group on Strategic Communications with Task Force T3 and the Managing Director of McDonald’s Philippines. This special edition episode in UP’s “Stop COVID Deaths” webinar series is organized by UP in partnership with the UP Manila NIH National Telehealth Center and in cooperation with UP Philippine General Hospital. Watch the episode on Friday, June 11, 2021, 12:00 noon. Register here: bit.ly/StopCOVIDDeathsWebinar56 |
https://up.edu.ph/tvup-to-launch-on-cignal-tv-channel-101/ | TVUP to launch on CIGNAL TV Channel 101 – University of the Philippines | TVUP to launch on CIGNAL TV Channel 101 TVUP to launch on CIGNAL TV Channel 101 September 30, 2022 | Written by UP Media and Public Relations Office TVUP, the television network operated by the University of the Philippines (UP), will officially launch on CIGNAL TV Channel 101 on October 11, 2022. Since its inception as an internet television network in November 2016, iTVUP was organized as a public digital library of open educational resources (OERs) that could be easily accessed and freely shared among students and teachers nationally and internationally. Even then, UP recognized the value of iTVUP to produce supplementary learning materials for students and faculty of UP, state colleges and universities (SUCs), private higher educational institutions (HEls), and the general public. In June 2022, a partnership between UP and Cignal TV Inc. established TVUP as a broadcast satellite channel available on Cignal 101. With this partnership, TVUP has been expanding its operations by producing quality productions, such as documentaries, magazine shows, lectures, game shows, animations, teleseryes, info-tainment shows, and other shows for the benefit not only of UP students and faculty but also of the general public. TVUP is a testament to UP’s character as the national university, a teaching, research, public service, and global/regional university, shared freely with all state universities and colleges, private and public. According to UP President L. Danilo Concepcion, TVUP’s availability as a digital channel was a “perfect opportunity to nurture lifelong learning in our people.” He added that, through TVUP on Cignal 101, UP’s knowledge resources could be extended to as many Filipinos as possible, “whether these are students looking to enrich their lessons or ordinary citizens who wish to gain more knowledge and develop skills.” TVUP exists as a public space to inspire innovation, creativity, critical thinking and understanding, and respect for diversity of cultures. Its lineup of high-quality programs showcases scientific breakthroughs, Philippine culture, and society, national issues and concerns, etc. With almost 600 video productions, TVUP is an important medium in implementing a blended learning environment. |
https://up.edu.ph/up-webinar-to-tackle-workplace-safety-amid-covid-19/ | UP webinar to tackle workplace safety amid COVID-19 – University of the Philippines | UP webinar to tackle workplace safety amid COVID-19 UP webinar to tackle workplace safety amid COVID-19 October 27, 2021 | Written by Deina Blancaflor The University of the Philippines (UP), in partnership with UP Manila NIH National Telehealth Center, in cooperation with UP Philippine General Hospital (PGH), and co-sponsored by the Philippine College of Occupational Medicine, Inc., would like to invite you to join the fight against COVID-19. With the economy gradually reopening and workers slowly shifting back to physical office work hours, safety remains a concern. This Friday, October 29, from 12nn to 2pm, join us for another special episode of the “Stop COVID Deaths” webinar series, where we will discuss “WORK BUBBLES: Ligtas ba sa COVID-19 ang ating mga Workers?” What specific measures are needed to provide optimum protection for our workers? How can the workplace be made safer? How can we prevent the virus from spreading as we travel to and from work? We will also take a closer look at workers’ psychosocial and mental well-being—what has been done and what more can we do to recover from the economic hardship brought about by COVID-19. Dr. Joselito Gapas, an expert in occupational health and safety from the First Philippine Holdings Corporation, will be the main speaker. He will present a case study about workers’ safety. Meanwhile, Dr. Gigi Alampay of the Ateneo Center for Organization Research and Development (CORD) will share the latest research on workers’ mental health. We will also hear reactions from Dr. Rosalie V. Rivera from Shell Companies in the Philippines and Dr. Paul Michael R. Hernandez from the Department of Environmental and Occupational Health of the UP Manila College of Public Health. Dr. Anna Sofia Victoria Fajardo, Vice President of Philippine College of Occupational Medicine, Inc., and Dr. Stella Marie Jose, UP PGH Deputy Director for Health Operations, will open and close the event. Interested participants may freely register here for exclusive Zoom access. However, you may also catch our weekly live tweets and streams via the UP System Twitter Account and TVUP’s YouTube channel and Facebook page. The “Stop COVID Deaths” webinar series is the Philippines’ first and only frontline-focused medical webinar series. It pioneered the discussion, dissemination, and adoption of knowledge on COVID-19 treatment and management. Follow our accounts to stay connected with your credible online community. |
https://up.edu.ph/call-for-applications-international-workshop-in-omics-in-infectious-diseases/ | Call for applications: International Workshop in ‘Omics in Infectious Diseases – University of the Philippines | Call for applications: International Workshop in ‘Omics in Infectious Diseases Call for applications: International Workshop in ‘Omics in Infectious Diseases October 5, 2018 | Written by UP Media and Public Relations Office UP’s Philippine Genome Center in partnership with the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine (LSHTM) through the funding support of DOST’s Philippine Council for Health Research and Development (PCHRD), and British Council’s Newton Fund Program is once again organizing an international workshop on infectious diseases this time with focus in ‘Omics technology. The applications of ‘Omics technologies in health is huge, and improving local capability in this area is the rationale behind this international workshop. While it is important to build on the Philippines’ capability in this area, the workshop in its entirety is meant to increase the level of awareness and correct misconceptions regarding the relevant technology requirements in order to pursue “omics” research in the Philippines. The workshop happening on November 5-9 in UP Diliman will consist two symposia on ID ‘omics and control, flanking a hands-on analytical/computational short course in ‘omics data generation and analysis. The five-day workshop aims to: (i) inform policy makers, public health workers, clinicians and biomedical researchers on the potential of ‘omics technology in performing ID surveillance and control, assisting in the rapid detection of drug resistance strains, and informing clinical disease management, including next generation diagnostics (ii) equip researchers and field epidemiologists with the analytical tools to perform genomic surveillance and analyses locally, and to harness the Philippine-wide networks that the PGC, University of the Philippines (UP) and LSHTM can support to perform regional ID surveillance (iii) develop an effective regional network for ID genomic surveillance in Philippines, centered on the genomic capacity of the PGC and by harnessing the expertise available in LSHTM (iv) build capacity in the basic tools of genomics, transcriptomics, proteomics and other ‘omics analysis that can be applied to multiple areas of research across a wide range of organisms, including the evaluation of host-pathogen interactions and specific host or pathogen responses (v) provide hands-on experience with the generation and analysis of ‘omics data, including the application of portable sequencing and processing of the resulting big data. Advanced users are allowed to develop more advanced analysis pipelines. ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA • Participants may range from MSc graduates and research assistants with extensive research experience, to PhD graduates and early-career researchers with a maximum of 10 years post-PhD research experience. • Participants must have a research or recognized institution post (research contract/fellowship) at a recognized institution in either the UK or the Philippines TO REGISTER, click https://bit.ly/geid2app before 8 October 2018. • For applicants in the UK, applications may be sent to Taane.Clark@lshtm.ac.uk. • A confirmation email will be sent to registrants on October 12, 2018. • The thirty (30) shortlisted participants for the hands-on workshop are expected to attend all sessions and are required to bring a hard drive or USB with at least 8 GB usable memory. • Those who will not be selected to participate in the hands-on workshop are welcome to attend the scientific symposia on Day 1 (November 5) and Day 4 (PM session) at the Institute of Biology Auditorium, and will feature keynote talks on the use of –omics technology for disease control and management, the role of the PGC and its links to public health. • Workshop proper [Day 2-Day 4 (AM session)] on analytical/computational short courses covering the analysis of raw ‘omics data, integration, and correlation with disease outcomes will be held at the Philippine Genome Center Training Rooms. POSTER SESSION Attendees of the symposium and workshop participants are also encouraged to participate in the poster session to be held on November 6, 2018. Abstracts relating to the genomics, transcriptomics, proteomics and bioinformatics analysis of infectious diseases must be sent to geid2.0abstracts@gmail.com no later than October 8, 2018 (Monday). Confirmation emails will be sent by October 12, 2018. Guidelines: • Abstract must be written in English with the font Arial, size 11 pt, single-spaced, and justified on MS Word. • Title of the paper must be in bold capital letters and centered • Name(s) of the author(s) must be below the title and underlined. • Abstract should contain an introduction, objectives, major findings, and conclusion, and should have no more than 300 words. • Poster should be 2” x 3” feet and contain the abstract, introduction, objectives, methods, major findings, and conclusion. EQUAL OPPORTUNITIES Wherever possible, gender balance and diversity will be sought in the selection of candidates, and extra support to enable participation of Early Career Researchers with special needs will be given. SUPPORT The British Council and the Philippine’s Department of Science and Technology’s Philippine Council for Health Research and Development (PCHRD) will cover the costs related to workshop participation, including: travel, accommodation, and meals. Although this cost will not be covered by the British Council or DOST, participants are encouraged to purchase an adequate travel and medical insurance. The British Council accepts no responsibility for any problems which may occur when the participants are in-country. For queries or clarifications, please call 981-8500 local 4703 and or email pgc@up.edu.ph Visit the www.pgc.up.edu.ph or follow @phgenome on Facebook and Twitter to know more about us. |
https://up.edu.ph/up-welcomes-students-to-ay-2020-2021-unveils-initiatives/ | UP welcomes students to AY 2020-2021, unveils initiatives – University of the Philippines | UP welcomes students to AY 2020-2021, unveils initiatives UP welcomes students to AY 2020-2021, unveils initiatives September 17, 2020 | Written by Arlyn VCD Palisoc Romualdo Screenshot of the UP Systemwide Opening of AY 2020-2021 Online Welcome Ceremony. The replay can be viewed on TVUP’s YouTube channel. All UP constituents, students, faculty, administrators, and staff, are dealing with the “uncertain” and “unusual” situation forced by the COVID-19 pandemic on teaching, learning, and operations. This was acknowledged by the officials of the University of the Philippines in its online welcome ceremony for students on September 9, the day before the first semester of Academic Year 2020-2021 officially started. UP President Danilo Concepcion, Vice President for Academic Affairs Maria Cynthia Rose Bautista, and Student Regent John Isaac Punzalan all said the event was certainly not the welcome new and returning students expected. Screenshot of the UP Systemwide Opening of AY 2020-2021 Online Welcome Ceremony. The replay can be viewed on TVUP’s YouTube channel. Concepcion called this semester a “testament to our ability as Filipinos to overcome hardships”. He asked the UP community for understanding and cooperation as everyone grapples with new methods and processes. There will be mistakes and inadequacies, and some necessities may not be given or addressed immediately, but Concepcion emphasized that “as long as we are united in our belief that the pandemic must not succeed in crippling education and intellectual development, the torch of knowledge will triumph over our fears and worries.” To freshmen, in particular, he asked them to accept the new normal as a historic challenge, one that would be the mark of their generation as students who continued to study and learn despite a pandemic. In the end, Concepcion reiterated the importance of keeping health and safety as top priorities and that while the University’s buildings may be closed, UP as an institution remains open to its constituents. Screenshot of the UP Systemwide Opening of AY 2020-2021 Online Welcome Ceremony. The replay can be viewed on TVUP’s YouTube channel. Bautista, meanwhile, said COVID-19 “thrust universities worldwide into uncharted territory.” Remote learning would be the norm for UP at this time, she added, clarifying that remote learning does not exclusively mean online learning. It means holding no physical meetings, possibly employing ICT, and being synchronous/real-time or asynchronous. Course packs in digital or printed format will be the “primary means of delivering course content”. She described course packs for remote learning as more comprehensive than course packs for face-to-face classes, because these include study guides. Some faculty members will be providing course packs at the beginning of the semester while some will be giving these at intervals. Slides from UP VP for Academic Affairs Bautista’s presentation during the UP Systemwide Opening of AY 2020-2021 Online Welcome Ceremony. The replay can be viewed on TVUP’s YouTube channel. “This semester will definitely be far from ideal,” Bautista admitted. “If we were still unable to predict problems that arose even under the best circumstances of a regular semester, we will definitely be unable to anticipate many more unprecedented problems as we shift to remote learning, but we will learn from these problems, find solutions to them iteratively, and build on these solutions for a better planned second semester.” She further revealed that UP recognized the imperfections of this semester and “continues to suspend rules on academic standing.” This semester will not be counted as part of the maximum residence rule for students and their regular load of 15 units has been reduced to 12 units. Assistant Vice President for Student Affairs Richard Philip Gonzalo, who is also the director of the Office of Student Financial Assistance, gave a brief orientation on the reconfiguration of the UP Student Affairs System (SAS) as well as its new programs in response to remote learning. Factors considered in the reconfiguration include: independent learning with limited interaction with peers and personnel; the home as a new learning environment which may not be fully conducive; digital divide; socioeconomic circumstances of households; effects of remote learning on mental health and psychosocial well-being; venues for connecting and expressing freedoms; and, protection of students’ rights. Screenshot of the UP Systemwide Opening of AY 2020-2021 Online Welcome Ceremony. The replay can be viewed on TVUP’s YouTube channel. The new SAS programs to be rolled out are: the Student Learning Assistance System (SLAS); the UP Student Mental Health and Wellness Network; Peer Learning Groups (PLGs); and, the Student Helpdesk. The SLAS expands Student Financial Assistance Online, which was created in 2014 to accept applications for tuition subsidy and allowance. It will gather information on financial capacity, connectivity situation and options, and other learning assistance requirements to allow students to continue their studies. [Apply for gadgets and internet subsidy via UP’s Student Learning Assistance System Online] Undergraduates from low income households, including those enrolled at the UP Diliman College of Law and UP Manila College of Medicine, shall each receive an internet connection subsidy worth P1,500 per month through a telecommunications company of their choice. Based on updated application information, those from the “most vulnerable” shall be offered gadgets on top of the internet connectivity allowance. This is in line with the Kaagapay sa Pag-aaral ng Iskolar ng Bayan Fundraising and Resource Generation Campaign that was launched in July to support the remote learning needs of around 5,600 UP students from financially-challenged households. [Support the remote learning needs of our Iskolar ng Bayan] The UP Student Mental Health and Wellness Network aims to increase the availability of mental health service providers in the different UP campuses who can “provide service and facilitate referral, treatment, and other interventions”. Toward the creation of this network, Student Affairs offices from across the UP System will submit information on accredited organizations and individuals that offer mental health and psychosocial services. A harmonized process is intended for the efficient facilitation of referals within and across UP constituent universities. The University acknowledges the critical role peers play in instruction and learning. PLGs will consist of students guided by faculty facilitators to provide tutorial services, peer counseling, and other support activities. The PLGs are “envisioned to address students’ concerns on self-paced learning and contribute to the overall mental health and well-being [of students] by enjoining [their peers] to be active agents in coping activities”. The Student Helpdesk will be “a one-stop center for seeking advice on academic matters, emergency concerns, and even legal concerns, even when they are at home”. It will be managed using a triage system, referring students to appropriate units and groups that can directly address their needs, and giving information on application processes for learning support and financial aid, among others. Apart from these programs, Gonzalo reiterated the following: merit-based scholarship awards and incentives will continue to be given; campus learning resource centers remain operational; the process of recognizing student organizations is still in place; counseling and guidance services are available; and, financial assistance programs such as scholarships, grants, tuition loans, student and graduate assistantships, and donor-funded initiatives, will continue to accept applications. He added that most student housing facilities will be closed during the first semester for the University to formulate protocols and prepare for “when the pandemic subsides”. Screenshot of the UP Systemwide Opening of AY 2020-2021 Online Welcome Ceremony. The replay can be viewed on TVUP’s YouTube channel. Punzalan, representing the students in the UP Board of Regents, the University’s highest governing body, described this year as being “historic”, not only because of the pandemic but also because the current situation “shows how ready we are to come together to protect our right to education and offer our intellect and talent to our countrymen.” He enumerated to his fellow Iskolar ng Bayan some of the things that they need to fight for and protect: health, accessible education, academic freedom, and the freedom to know and be involved. “Our voices will never be silent,” he declared. He was optimistic that the next time students see each other, “we will be cheering ‘UP fight’ together while watching sporting events, going on food trips around the campus, studying and hanging out with our classmates and fellow organization members, and participating in demonstrations to fight for our rights.” Punzalan ended by asking his constituents to “find hope in ourselves, in our fellow students, and in our community as One UP. Be the light in the midst of darkness.” Screenshot of the UP Systemwide Opening of AY 2020-2021 Online Welcome Ceremony. The replay can be viewed on TVUP’s YouTube channel. Vice President for Public Affairs Elena Pernia formally closed the online welcome ceremony. “We have been called to be creative and confident, patient and understanding, but most of all, committed to do our best in addressing educational challenges.” To UP students in particular, she gave this reminder: “The phrase ‘para sa bayan’ (for the country) is not empty rhetoric, but a guide to how one must live.” The program also included productions by TVUP: “Upward, Onward, Forward”, a backgrounder video on the University; and,“Husay at Galing”, a music video of the song originally composed by Ferdinand Jarin with musical arrangement and instrumentation by Pordalab. |
https://up.edu.ph/davao-city-up-sports-complex-football-field-passes-fifa-certification/ | Davao City-UP Sports Complex football field passes FIFA certification – University of the Philippines | Davao City-UP Sports Complex football field passes FIFA certification Davao City-UP Sports Complex football field passes FIFA certification April 24, 2019 | Written by Rene A. Estremera The Davao City-UP Sports Complex Football Field with a glimpse of Mt. Apo in the background. Courtesy of UP Mindanao Public Relations Office. The Football Field at the Davao City-University of the Philippines (UP) Sports Complex was issued a Field Certificate by the Fédération Internationale de Football Association (FIFA) for having passed the test that was conducted on 5 February 2019 according to their quality program for Football Turf. The certificate, signed by FIFA President Gianni Infantino, accredits the Football Field, located inside the UP Mindanao campus in Davao City, to host international football (soccer) games from 17 April 2019 until 16 April 2022. Prof. Erwin Protacio, chairperson of the UP Mindanao Department of Human Kinetics and a member of the Board of Governors of the Philippine Football Federation, said, “The FIFA accreditation was a requirement in the football field construction contract so that we have quality assurance. The test was done by a third party expert who is accredited by the FIFA. The field has the standard size for international competitions, an even playing surface, and consistent length of its artificial grass, which are features that tend to bring out the best from the players.” He further added, “I believe this is the first time in Palarong Pambansa that a FIFA-certified field will be used. The secondary school football games will be played here and the new playing field lights can allow evening games. For international matches in the future, we need to upgrade the lights for high density TV and provide perimeter fences.” A copy of the FIFA field certificate At the signing of the Memorandum of Agreement between UP and the City of Davao on 10 January 2019, UP President Danilo Concepcion had already committed to exploring the establishment of a College of Human Kinetics in UP Mindanao. Davao City Mayor Sara Duterte-Carpio, on the same occasion, also expressed her vision of transforming Davao City into a premier sports-tourism destination. Protacio added, “With the structures in the Sports Complex, we hope to attract prospective students to our proposed degree programs related to sports. Hopefully we can recruit the best athletes who will become national players, licensed coaches, sports trainers/teachers, and sports administrators.” Following the Field Test in February, the Football Field was used in March for the UP Mindanao Mindanao Men’s Football Cup and the tryout of the Under-15 Girls National Team, which brought 82 players to test the field in competition conditions. |
https://up.edu.ph/former-upv-student-tops-pmas-masaligan-class-of-2021/ | Former UPV student tops PMA’s “Masaligan” Class of 2021 – University of the Philippines | Former UPV student tops PMA’s “Masaligan” Class of 2021 Former UPV student tops PMA’s “Masaligan” Class of 2021 May 6, 2021 | Posted by UP Media and Public Relations Office A 25-year old former student of the University of the Philippines Visayas (UP Visayas), Cadet 1CL Janrey Cabanero Artus, graduated summa cum laude from the Philippine Military Academy (PMA) this year. Since its establishment in 1939, the PMA has produced top military graduates who became leaders in the country’s armed forces and police. Image from ABS-CBN. Watch Cadet 1CL Artus’ video profile on the PMA’s Facebook page. Artus, who hails from San Enrique, Negros Occidental, is the valedictorian of the 164-strong “Masaligan” (MAndirigmang SAmahan na Lakas at SandIGAN ng Bayan) Class of 2021. He was a student in the BS Chemical Engineering Program of the School of Technology, UP Visayas, enrolled from the first semester 2012-2013 to the first semester of 2016-2017. In an informal sharing, UP Visayas Chancellor Clement C. Camposano recalled Artus as a “good and responsible student” and “always one of the students who score high in exams”. Image from ABS-CBN. Watch Cadet 1CL Sastado’s video profile on the PMA’s Facebook page. Two other former UP students also ranked among the top 10 of the PMA “Masaligan” Class of 2021. At Rank 7 is Cadet 1CL Harold Mars Alicpala Sastado of Batangas City. Sastado is an alumnus of UP Los Baños, where he graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Chemical Engineering, cum laude. Image from ABS-CBN. Watch Cadet 1CL Lim’s video profile on the PMA’s Facebook page. And in Rank 10 is Cadet 1CL Shirly Fatima Eguia Lim of Tacloban City. She is one of four women who ranked among the top 10 in the PMA “Masaligan” Class of 2021. A former Department of Science and Technology (DOST) scholar, Lim was a chemical engineering student at UP Visayas. She also graduated cum laude from the PMA this year. With reports from ABS-CBN and Rappler |
https://up.edu.ph/up-president-leads-project-launchings-at-the-up-visayas-iloilo-city-campus/ | UP President leads project launchings at the UP Visayas Iloilo City Campus – University of the Philippines | UP President leads project launchings at the UP Visayas Iloilo City Campus UP President leads project launchings at the UP Visayas Iloilo City Campus March 18, 2022 | Written by UP Media and Public Relations Office UP System officials, UP Visayas officials and guests at the inauguration of the Oblation Plaza at the UP Visayas Iloilo City campus. Photo from UPV-IPO. President Danilo Concepcion visited UP Visayas to launch and inaugurate several projects at the Iloilo City campus, initiated under his administration on March 16, 2022. President Concepcion was joined by his wife, Atty. Gabriela Concepcion, Assistant Vice President for Public Affairs Rica Abad and Dr. Grace Alfonso of TVUP. One of the UP Visayas’ prominent alumni, Senator Franklin Drilon, attended the events with officers and members of the UP Alumni Association Iloilo Chapter and the iAmUPHi Alumni Group. Chancellor Clement Camposano led the UPV officials, including his vice-chancellors: Dr. Philip Ian Padilla, Dr. Rhodella Ibabao, Dr. Harold Monteclaro, and Prof. John Lorenz Belanio, as well as the faculty and staff in the series of events scheduled on the day. A Turn-over of the UPHSI Multipurpose Building, Phases 1 and 2, and the Launching of the Handumanan Project, which will pursue the Adaptive Reuse of the Old High School Building and the Women’s Club Building, was held at the UPV Little Theater with the UPV alumni Iloilo represented by Assoc. Justice Francis Jardeleza, as well as members of UPAA-Iloilo Chapter, UPV officials, faculty, and staff. In his message, Sen. Drilon recounted his early days on the campus and his aspirations to enhance these cherished structures of the UP High School. An Artist’s Reception at the Lantip Gallery featured “From Lin-ay to Hangaway” Voices of Ilonggo Women Artists at the UPV Main Building followed. The exhibit features artworks of Women in Prison, which coincides with the Women’s Month Celebration. The Panapton Gallery and the Ed Defensor Wing of the UPV Main Building Museum Complex maintained by the Office of Initiative in Culture and the Arts were also opened for viewing. The Inauguration of the University Avenue organized by the Office of Vice Chancellor for Planning and Development came after, which showcased Indigenous Dance and Ambahan of the Panay Bukidnon and a performance from a tribe from the Iloilo Dinagyang. The event also became a venue for celebration for the whole community. In between these events, UP Visayas Officials also presented to President Concepcion UPV Proposed Infrastructure Projects for concept approval and locational clearance and the Proposed UPV Academic and Extension Campus in Pueblo de Panay in Roxas City. This took place at the OICA Conference Room, UPV Main Building. (Ms. Anna Razel Ramirez, UPV-IPO) |
https://up.edu.ph/up-dilimans-bulletin-on-stranded-construction-workers-on-campus/ | UP Diliman’s bulletin on stranded construction workers on campus – University of the Philippines | UP Diliman’s bulletin on stranded construction workers on campus UP Diliman’s bulletin on stranded construction workers on campus April 22, 2020 | Posted by UP Media and Public Relations Office UPD-Bulletin-2020-17 May mga kumakalat na balita ngayon sa social media tungkol sa grupo ng mga stranded na construction worker sa loob ng kampus ng UPD na diumano ay napilitan nang kumain ng mga ligaw na hayop at prutas mula sa mga puno sa kampus dahil sa labis na pagkagutom. Direktang kinausap ng Office of the Vice Chancellor for Planning and Development (OVCPD) ang mga trabahador at nadiskubreng hindi naman sila kinakapos sa pagkain, sa halip ay nabigyan na ng P4,000 na ayuda noong Marso 17 at P2,000 noong Abril 14 ng kanilang employer. Ininspeksiyon din ng OVCPD ang kanilang supply room na naglalaman ng tatlong sakong bigas (25 kilo ang bawat isa) at mga delata mula sa All UP Workers Union at iba pang organisasyon sa loob ng kampus. Ayon sa mga trabahador, nagulat na lang sila noong nag-viral ang ulat, dahil ang mga larawan ay kuha ng grupo ng mga tao na pumunta sa site upang mamahagi ng relief goods, ngunit hindi sila ininterbyu o tinanong tungkol sa kanilang sitwasyon. Para sa buong balita, mag-email lamang sa OVCPD sa ovcpd.upd@up.edu.ph. Makaaasa kayong ginagawa ng UPD COVID-19 Task Force ang lahat upang matugunan ang mga pangangailangan ng lahat ng sektor sa UP Diliman. Sa panahong ito ng walang-katiyakan dulot ng pandemya, walang lugar sa pagkabalisa at fake news. Ang mga ahensiya ng media ay dapat na maging responsable sa pagbabalita at ang mga mamamayan ay dapat beripikahin muna ang mga balita bago ito i-share sa social media. Kung nais ninyong tumulong sa pamamagitan ng cash donation, i-deposito lamang ito sa mga sumusunod na account: GCash and Paymaya: 09167654695 Paypal: paypal.me/tieronesantos BPI: 9239 4326 43/Marco Giorgione A. Dava GoGetFunding: https://gogetfunding.com/fundraiser-for-upds-maninindas-and-jeepney-drivers/ Paki-email ang kopya ng deposit slip/online transaction kay sa ovcpd.upd@up.edu.ph. Banggitin din kung ano ang mga item (alkohol, bigas, de lata) na nais ninyong maibili mula sa inyong donasyon |
https://up.edu.ph/pgc-holds-1st-national-genomics-conference/ | PGC holds 1st National Genomics Conference – University of the Philippines | PGC holds 1st National Genomics Conference PGC holds 1st National Genomics Conference October 24, 2019 | Written by Arlyn VCD Palisoc Romualdo The speakers and participants of the 1st National Genomics Conference (Photo by Misael Bacani, UP MPRO) The Philippine Genome Center (PGC) conducted its 1st National Genomics Conference on October 10 to showcase its research programs and further encourage collaboration among Filipino scientists to beef up omics research in the country. The daylong event was also part of the Center’s year-long tenth anniversary celebration. Senior Bioinformatics Specialist Carlo Lapid (left) talks to conference participants about the bioinformatics capabilities of the PGC. (Photo by Misael Bacani, UP MPRO) In the morning, PGC research programs on coconut genomics, conus exeogenomics, cardiovascular genetics, diabetes genetics, and colorectal cancer were presented. The leader of the Coconut Genomics Program, Dr. Hayde Galvez, presented “Improvement of Coconut Varieties through Genomics, Genetics, and Breeding for a Competitive and Sustainable Philippine Coconut industry (Genomics-Assisted Molecular Breeding).” Dr. Hayde Galvez, leader of the PGC Coconut Genomics Program (Photo by Misael Bacani, UP MPRO) Dr. Arturo Lluisma, the leader of the Conus Exeogenomics Progam, talked about the potential of conopeptide genomic data in drug discovery and other applications, as well as the use of computational structural biology approaches in drug discovery workflows. Dr. Arturo Lluisma, head of the PGC Conus Exeogenomics Progam (Photo by Misael Bacani, UP MPRO) “Lunas na Sakto para sa Puso ng Pilipino: Personalized Medicine in Cardiovascular Health Care” was the presentation of Dr. Rody Sy, a project leader in the Cardiovascular Genetics Program. The aim of personalized medicine is “the right drug, at the right dose, for the right Filipino.” He said that while studies on genetic markers associated with cardiovascular disease (CVD) and response to drugs across varying populations have shown “inter-ethnic variability,” there is “insufficient pharmacogenetic and genetic susceptibility data among Filipinos.” Sy added that by studying genetic markers, treatments costs may decrease, and ineffective chronic therapy may be diminished because of guided treatment. Dr. Rody Sy, a project leader in the PGC Cardiovascular Genetics Program (Photo by Misael Bacani, UP MPRO) Molecular Diabetes Study Group Project Leader Dr. Jose Nevado’s “Sweet Genes Are Made of This: Let’s talk about diabetes!” was presented under the Diabetes Genetics Program. Similar to Sy in his talk on CVD, Nevado also lamented the lack of genetic studies on Filipinos for risk of diabetes. The group has narrowed down “six significant gene variations of interest after statistical tests” from the initial 355 gene variations linked to the disease, which was trimmed to 274 variations after quality assurance tests, and later further cut down to 29 variations after genetic tests. Molecular Diabetes Study Group Project Leader Dr. Jose Nevado (Photo by Misael Bacani, UP MPRO) A project leader in the Colorectal Cancer Program, Dr. Reynaldo Garcia, then discussed “Novel mutations in EGFR pathway genes of Filipino colorectal cancer patients present distinct and overlapping oncogenic phenotypes.” A project leader in the PGC Colorectal Cancer Program, Dr. Reynaldo Garcia (Photo by Misael Bacani, UP MPRO) Apart from the select research programs, the Conference also featured two products which were developed with assistance from the PGC and other agencies. One was Biotek-M Dengue Aqua Kit, a portable dengue diagnostic kit, with the project leader, Dr. Raul Destura, of UP Manila; and the other was PhilGeneStrips, a field-ready test kit for the detection of shrimp pathogens, with Dr. Erwin Enriquez and Dr. Nina Rojas of Ateneo de Manila University. Dr. Raul Destura of UP Manila talks about Biotek-M Dengue Aqua Kit. (Photo by Misael Bacani, UP MPRO) Dr. Erwin Enriquez and Dr. Nina Rojas of Ateneo de Manila University demonstrate the use of PhilGeneStrips. (Photo by Misael Bacani, UP MPRO) In the afternoon session, Dr. Cynthia Saloma, the PGC executive director, revealed the Center’s expansion to the Visayas and Mindanao via satellite facilities in the Miagao campus of UP Visayas and in the UP Mindanao campus. Dr. Victor Marco Emmanuel Ferriols is the project leader of the PGC-Visayas Satellite Facility, while Dr. Lyre Anni Murao is the project leader of the PGC-Mindanao Satellite Facility. From left, Dr. Cynthia Saloma, PGC executive director; Dr. Lyre Anni Murao, project leader of the PGC-Mindanao Satellite Facility; and Dr. Victor Marco Emmanuel Ferriols, project leader of the PGC-Visayas Satellite Facility (Photo by Misael Bacani, UP MPRO) The establishment of the PGC’s Protein, Proteomics and Metabolomics Core Facility was reported by the program leader, Dr. Neil Andrew Bascos; while the development of a laboratory information management system for biorepository for the PGC Biobank and Biorepository Core Facility was discussed by the project leader, Dr. Elena Catap. PGC’s research and development program also presented its goals for the next five years on social responsibility, genomics appreciation, operational efficiency, social entrepreneurship, and linkages. In the left photo is PGC Biobank and Biorepository Core Facility project leader, Dr. Elena Catap and in the right photo is PGC Proteomics and Metabolomics Core Facility program leader, Dr. Neil Andrew Bascos (Photo by Misael Bacani, UP MPRO) Dr. Asao Fujiyama of the National Institute of Genetics, Japan delivers his keynote address at day’s end. (Photo by Misael Bacani, UP MPRO) The event was capped off by the keynote address of Dr. Asao Fujiyama of the National Institute of Genetics, Japan. Fujiyama’s address, “The Road of Genomes,” which he also called in his presentation a congratulatory address to the PGC, included an enumeration of major events and breakthroughs in DNA sequencing from 1997 to 2017. He also pointed out that “technology advances drive science,” and gave examples of technologies that have allowed a deeper pursuit of certain fields, such as the telescope for astronomy or sequencing machines for genomics. Fujiyama ended his speech by reiterating the goal of genomics, which is the “understanding of life forms through the identification of genomic elements.” |
https://up.edu.ph/philippine-genome-center-call-for-donations-for-protective-personal-equipment/ | Philippine Genome Center: Call for Donations for Protective Personal Equipment – University of the Philippines | Philippine Genome Center: Call for Donations for Protective Personal Equipment Philippine Genome Center: Call for Donations for Protective Personal Equipment March 25, 2020 | Posted by UP Media and Public Relations Office To address inquiries on how to help and/or provide assistance during the COVID-19 National Health Emergency: The Philippine Genome Center of the University of the Philippines was tasked to handle the sequencing of COVID-19 samples for the next two (2) weeks, in coordination with the health workers from UP Manila National Institutes of Health, to provide our scientists with crucial scientific information to mitigate the spread of the disease. In our effort to continually protect the PGC skeletal work force during this national health emergency, we are accepting PPE donations, such as N95 masks, surgical masks, disposable impermeable laboratory gowns and caps, face shields, and shoe covers to replenish our supplies and at the same time share these donations to the NIH, PGH, and UP Health Service. Thank you very much for your support. *Featured image courtesy of Philippine Genome Center – UP Mindanao |
https://up.edu.ph/covid-19-variants-and-countrys-readiness-for-each-discussed-by-up-experts/ | COVID-19 variants and country’s readiness for each, discussed by UP experts – University of the Philippines | COVID-19 variants and country’s readiness for each, discussed by UP experts COVID-19 variants and country’s readiness for each, discussed by UP experts February 17, 2021 | Written by Jo. Florendo B. Lontoc Experts from the University of the Philippines will discuss the presence of COVID-19 variants in the country and the implications of each for testing and clinical management of patients, as special topics in the University’s Stop COVID-19 Deaths Webinar No. 41, titled “COVID-19 Variants of Concern in the Philippines: Are We Ready?”, to be streamed on February 19, 2021, from 12 noon to 2 PM. Dr. Eva Cutiongco-De la Paz, Program Director for Health of the Philippine Genome Center (PGC), will report on the presence, dominance, and location of the variants in the Philippines. PGC, a research unit of UP, has been the seat of genetic surveillance of the COVID-19 virus or SARSCov2 and its mutations in the country. A microbiologist and infectious disease specialist, Dr. Raul Destura, creator of the first Philippine test kit for SARSCov2, will talk of the implications for testing of the UK, South Africa, and Brazil variants. Dr. Jubert Benedicto, the head of the UP Philippine General Hospital (PGH) Critical Care Unit-Management Action Team, will discuss research findings on the treatment against the new variants. The organizers say that the special edition webinars of the series aim to keep the health sector informed, adapted, and adjusted to the evolution of SARSCov2 in the country. The Stop COVID Deaths series taps into the experiences of clinicians, hospital administrators, and researchers in order to protect the health system against COVID-19 by bridging the gap between knowledge and practice in the clinical management of cases in the Philippines. The series is organized by the University in partnership with the UP Manila National Institutes of Health-National Telehealth Center and in cooperation with the UP-PGH. Those who wish to participate may register at bit.ly/StopCOVIDDeathsWebinar41. If registration is already at full capacity, a YouTube Live broadcast will also be available on TVUP at http://tvup.ph and http://www.youtube.com/tvupph. |
https://up.edu.ph/up-webinar-on-lambda-variant-what-we-know-so-far/ | UP webinar on Lambda variant: What we know so far – University of the Philippines | UP webinar on Lambda variant: What we know so far UP webinar on Lambda variant: What we know so far August 18, 2021 | Written by Deina Blancaflor The University of the Philippines, in partnership with UP Manila NIH National Telehealth Center, and in cooperation with UP Philippine General Hospital, would like to invite you to join the fight against COVID-19. The 66th webinar of the Stop COVID Deaths series, “Lambda Naman Ngayon! Variants and Vaccines”, will be held this Friday, August 20, 2021 from 12nn to 2pm. The webinar will focus on this new variant of interest, the Lambda variant, which is making waves across news sites. Should we be concerned? What do we need to do differently? With the limited information we have so far on Lambda’s virulence and infectivity, it’s important to get hold of all the facts as early as right now. Dr. Cynthia Saloma, Executive Director of the Philippine Genome Center, will lay out the facts on the Lambda variant. Dr. Teodoro J. Herbosa, Special Adviser to the National Task Force against COVID-19, will provide an update on vaccination implementation; while Felix Lopez, Vice President of People of Cebu Pacific, will talk about the work in the private sector, specifically Cebu Pacific Airlines, which is responsible for transporting vaccines. On the other hand, Dr. Noel Bernardo of the Philippine Red Cross will share the work of the foremost humanitarian organization in the country. Opening remarks will be given by UP Vice President for Public Affairs Elena E. Pernia, while Dean Charlotte M. Chiong of the College of Medicine will give her closing synthesis. Register here bit.ly/StopCOVIDDeathsWebinar66. |
https://up.edu.ph/senior-citizens-and-safety-during-alert-level-1-to-be-tackled-in-up-webinar/ | Senior citizens and safety during Alert Level 1 to be tackled in UP webinar – University of the Philippines | Senior citizens and safety during Alert Level 1 to be tackled in UP webinar Senior citizens and safety during Alert Level 1 to be tackled in UP webinar March 16, 2022 | Written by Deina Blancaflor When the COVID-19 pandemic started, the hardest-hit sectors were frontliners and senior citizens. Authorities implemented extraordinary precautions for the elderly, who were twice as vulnerable to the virus. They were at the highest risk for infection, hospitalization, and death from the get-go. Making things worse is that senior citizens were not allowed to go out during lockdowns. This drastic change in daily routine and the lack of social interaction have also affected their mental health. Most seniors have described the experience as a lonely journey full of stress, anxiety, and silent suffering. But as restrictions slowly ease and now that the country is at Alert Level 1, how safe is it for them to go out? Have most of the country’s senior citizens been fully vaccinated and boosted already? As for those who have not yet been vaccinated, are they at risk of contracting the virus? This Friday, March 18, 2022, from 12 to 2 pm, the University of the Philippines (UP), in partnership with UP Manila National Institutes of Health (UPM NIH), National Telehealth Center, and cooperation with UP Philippine General Hospital (UP-PGH), invite you to join the fight against COVID-19. In this particular “Stop COVID Deaths” episode, titled “ALERT LEVEL 1: Puwede na ba lumabas ang mga senior?”, Dr. Shelley Ann dela Vega, Director of the Institute on Aging at UPM NIH, and Dr. Nina Gloriani, Chairperson of the Vaccine Expert Panel-Technical Working Group for COVID-19 Vaccines, will do a deep dive on the status and vaccination levels of senior citizens, and weigh the risks and benefits of going out for seniors. UP-PGH Director for Health Operations Dr. Stella Marie L. Jose will also deliver her synthesis and closing remarks. Register here and catch our weekly live tweets and streams via the UP System Twitter Account and TVUP’s YouTube channel and Facebook page. “Stop COVID Deaths” is the Philippines’ first and only frontline-focused medical online seminar series. It pioneered the discussion, dissemination, and adoption of knowledge on COVID-19 treatment and management. Follow our accounts to stay connected with your credible online community. |
https://up.edu.ph/first-edu-connect-visit-in-2020-highlights-bayanihan/ | First Edu-Connect visit in 2020 highlights “bayanihan” – University of the Philippines | First Edu-Connect visit in 2020 highlights “bayanihan” First Edu-Connect visit in 2020 highlights “bayanihan” March 3, 2020 | Written by Fred Dabu Officials and faculty from the University of the Philippines and the Edu-Connect Southeast Asia Association delegation. Photo by Jun Madrid, UP MPRO. To strengthen collaboration between the University of the Philippines (UP) and universities in Taiwan, UP hosted a “homecoming” visit or meeting, the first for this year, at the Balay Kalinaw, UP Diliman, for top officials and delegates from UP and the Edu-Connect Southeast Asia Association on February 5, 2020. According to UP President Danilo L. Concepcion and Edu-Connect Southeast Asia Association Executive Director Eing-Ming Wu, the visit was a “homecoming” since representatives from the two delegations had already been conducting workshops and meetings in the Philippines and in Taiwan in the past years. University of the Philippines President Danilo L. Concepcion. Photo by Jun Madrid, UP MPRO. Concepcion said the aim of these meetings was to provide opportunities for discussing academic partnerships, faculty advancement, and academe-industry linkages, among others, that seek to address the two nations’ social issues, to alleviate poverty and inequality, and to stimulate development in the region. He said UP’s relationship with Edu-Connect and their partners “are becoming among the strongest and the most fruitful.” Dr. Eing-Ming Wu, Chair Professor of Shu-Te University and Executive Director of Edu-Connect Southeast Asia Association, Kaohsiung. Photo by Jun Madrid, UP MPRO. Wu further said that they were inspired by the Filipinos’ “bayanihan spirit” in pursuing teamwork and partnerships to achieve common goals. Meetings in previous years included representatives from: key Philippine government agencies, such as the National Economic Development Authority (NEDA); local government units; the Philippine Association of State Universities and Colleges (PASUC); the Manila Economic and Cultural Office (MECO); and, other Philippine State Universities and Colleges (SUCs) and private Higher Education Institutions (HEIs). Edu-Connect and UP delegates discuss possible academic partnerships and international exchange programs for students and faculty. Photo by Jun Madrid, UP MPRO. Concepcion noted that the meetings held in 2018 and 2019 covered vital topics and possible collaboration in education, research, and development in fields such as agriculture, aquaculture, public health, resilience, technological advancement, social entrepreneurship, learning commons, and post-graduate programs, among many others. “We are enriching our shared and unique expertise in these fields through mutual learning and cooperation. We can be proud of what we have done and established, so far,” he said. These meetings led to the establishment of the Taiwan-Philippine Academic Network Platform, the UP-Kaohsiung-Pingtung Fellowship Center, the hosting of the 2018 International Conference on Open and Distance e-Learning (ICODEL), and the Learning Commons Center. Edu-Connect and UP delegates discuss possible academic partnerships and international exchange programs for students and faculty. Photo by Jun Madrid, UP MPRO. The first inter-university and multi-sectoral meetings and workshops held in 2019 focused on the themes: Exploring International University-Industry Linkages; Educational Collaborations; University Social Responsibility Projects; and, Research Lab Networkings in the Manila Metropolitan and Calabarzon regions. By midyear, the Edu-Connect delegation also went to the Manila Metropolitan and the Cordillera regions, to focus on: Austronesian Studies and Indigenous Affairs; Indigenous Innovation and Ecotourism; Regional Development with Business Intelligence and Entrepreneurship Education; Smart Highland Agriculture and Technology Development Training; English Learning and Social Immersion Programs for University Students Development; and others. Edu-Connect and UP delegates discuss possible academic partnerships and international exchange programs for students and faculty. Photo by Jun Madrid, UP MPRO. Dr. Ru-Jer Wang, president of the National Taichung University of Education; Dr. Herchang Ay, president of St. John’s University; and, Dr. Shun-Hsiang Weng, president of Meiho University, also gave inspiring messages during the program. Thematic discussions about possible collaboration between UP and Edu-Connect members were then held within their respective subgroups on: Arts and Letters, Agriculture, Business, Engineering, International linkages, and Science. Professor Gil S. Jacinto, Assistant Vice President for Academic Affairs (Internationalization) and Director of the Office of International Linkages of the UP System. Photo by Jun Madrid, UP MPRO. Headed by Concepcion, the UP delegation was comprised of: Executive Vice President Teodoro J. Herbosa; Vice President for Academic Affairs Maria Cynthia Rose Banzon-Bautista; Assistant Vice President for Academic Affairs (Internationalization) and Office of International Linkages Director Gil S. Jacinto; Assistant Vice President for Academic Affairs (R&D Resource Management) Mary Delia G. Tomacruz; UP Mindanao Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs Nilo Oponda; UP Diliman College of Arts and Letters Dean Amihan Bonifacio-Ramolete; College of Science Dean Giovanni A. Tapang; Virata School of Business Dean Joel L. Tan-Torres; UP Los Baños College of Agriculture and Food Science Associate Dean Adeliza A. Dorado; UP Diliman College of Engineering Asst. Prof. Roderaid Ibanez; Office of International Linkages-Diliman International Programs Associate Victoria Fajardo; and, UP Diliman Extension Program in Pampanga (UPDEPP) Director Edna Estifania A. Co. The Edu-Connect delegation was comprised of top officials of: National Taichung University of Education, National Kaohsiung University of Science and Technology, St. John’s University, National Taipei University of Business, National Chung Hsing University, National University of Kaohsiung, National Chiayi University, National Tsing Hua University, National Taitung University, Chung Hwa University of Medical Technology, Chang Jung Christian University, I-Shou University, Meiho University, Chia Nan University of Pharmacy and Science, Green Power Agriculture Technology Co., Rainbow Family Life Education Association, Blessed & Blessing Church in Tainan, Chef Teng Restaurant Group, City Union Marketing Co., i-Pass Corporation, Brogent Global Inc., Mayushan Foods Co., GreatLink Travel Services Co., and MECO-EduConnect Start Up Training Network in Asia. |
https://up.edu.ph/fire-at-the-frontlines-up-pgh-staff-step-up-to-save-lives-awarded-the-order-of-lapu-lapu-for-their-bravery-and-heroism/ | Fire at the frontlines: UP PGH staff step up to save lives, awarded the Order of Lapu-Lapu for their bravery and heroism – University of the Philippines | Fire at the frontlines: UP PGH staff step up to save lives, awarded the Order of Lapu-Lapu for their bravery and heroism Fire at the frontlines: UP PGH staff step up to save lives, awarded the Order of Lapu-Lapu for their bravery and heroism June 11, 2021 | Written by Arlyn VCD Palisoc Romualdo The UP-PGH medical staff and personnel, including UP-PGH Director Dr. Gerardo “Gap” Legaspi, who led the evacuation of patients during a fire at said hospital last May 16, pose for a photo during their conferment of the Order of Lapu-Lapu. Photo from the Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO). In this COVID-19 crisis, hospital workers are critical to humanity’s health and survival. When a disaster strikes on top of an already overwhelming public health crisis, the pressure of a zero-casualty goal weighs even heavier on doctors, nurses, aides, utility workers, security personnel, and responders. The May 16 fire at the UP Philippine General Hospital (UP PGH), the largest COVID-19 referral facility, tested the mettle of its employees and proved they were ready and willing to go beyond the call of duty. It was their genuine desire to save lives that spurred them to think fast and remain calm. These effectively diffused panic and encouraged cooperation from patients and watchers to evacuate in an orderly manner. A baby who underwent heart surgery was one of the infants evacuated during the fire at the Philippine General Hospital in Manila on early Sunday morning. Photo courtesy of Heart Response/Fire and Rescue Alert Responders, from the Philippine Star’s Facebook page, dated May 16. Six hours after patients were evacuated due to the PGH Fire. Many patients are still not allowed to go back to their rooms due to heavy smoke. Around 60-80 pay patients were temporarily transferred to PGH’s new ER. Photo by Camille Elemia, from Rappler’s Facebook page, dated May 16. The heart of heroism and the spirit of service exemplified by its employees, and UP PGH’s Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Plan (DRRMP), with pandemic protocols in place, ensured that no one died from the blaze that broke out past midnight. Stepping up and stepping in Dr. Rodney Dofitas, who heads manpower support in the UP PGH COVID-19 Crisis Team, happened to be in the hospital when the fire started in the Operating Room Sterilization Area (ORSA) on the third floor of the Central Block. No, he was not on duty at the time. He had been with his aunt who sadly passed away a few hours before the fire. He was in the elevator when, upon the door opening at the third floor, he heard loud voices. When he went out to investigate, he saw smoke spilling out onto the hallway outside ORSA. The Crisis Team had to be informed, but his phone was barely hanging on to battery life. Dr. Rodney B. Dofitas, Head of the Manpower Support, PGH COVID Crisis Team (below), speaks during the May 23 episode of the UP “Stop COVID Deaths” webinar. Watch the episode on TVUP’s YouTube channel. A quick charge and messages sent to the Team, Dofitas knew he had to take charge until UP PGH Director Gerardo Legaspi arrived. He also knew where to find someone crucial to managing the emergency because Dofitas had seen him hours before. Safety Officer Joel Santiago was in his hospital bed when Dofitas returned to his room. Only, it was not like his visit earlier that evening. Dressed in his hospital gown, Santiago did not hesitate to get up, put on pants and boots, and go into action. Dofitas and Santiago worked with the firefighters on the scene. Screenshots from Dr. Dofitas’ presentation during the May 23 episode of the UP “Stop COVID Deaths” webinar. Watch the episode on TVUP’s YouTube channel. In another part of the hospital, at the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU), nurse Kathrina Bianca Macababbad was bathing the babies in her care when she was alerted to the fire on the floor below. Wasting no time, she fought back her fear and with fellow nurses, started the priority evacuation of the 35 babies in NICU. The healthier ones, those who were breathing on their own and could be transported in emergency vests, were brought down first. Refusing to leave any baby behind, she and nurse Jomar Mallari rushed back and forth from the ground to the fourth floors to rescue babies on mechanical ventilators, then babies who were intubated. All babies were saved. Dofitas, Santiago, Macababbad, and Mallari, along with UP PGH residents, Dr. Earle Ceo Abrenica and Dr. Alexandra Lee; Safety Officer Ramil Ranoa; NICU nurses Esmeralda Ninto and Phoebe Rose Malabanan; and, nurse and volunteer firefighter Quintin Bagay Jr., were conferred the Order of Lapu-Lapu by President Rodrigo Duterte on June 2 for their heroism. The Order of Lapu-Lapu is conferred upon those who accomplished extraordinary acts of service and exceptional contributions to the country. Collective effort While they received the recognition, the UP Manila (UPM) and UP PGH leadership emphasized that it was everyone at the hospital that helped avert what could have been a more disastrous fire had it claimed lives. UPM Chancellor Carmencita Padilla said that in her 43-year stay at UPM and UP PGH, there have been three fire incidents, including the one that happened on May 16. All three took place at night, evacuation had to be undertaken, and all were zero-casualty incidents. Every evacuation carried out by responders and personnel, she said, “is an offering of their lives,” and she expressed gratitude to and lauded the brave and selfless actions of UP PGH staff and the firefighters. UP PGH Director Gerardo “Gap” Legaspi (below) speaks during the May 23 episode of the UP “Stop COVID Deaths” webinar. Watch the episode on TVUP’s YouTube channel. “The best asset of UP-PGH is its people,” Legaspi emphasized. The hospital director declared he was “indebted to [all] the personnel” because it was their collective action, their bayanihan, that saved everyone. Bayanihan was also at work after the fire. UP PGH received a deluge of support, from other hospitals taking in PGH patients to providing industrial fans and equipment that helped dissipate smoke inside the building, from donating respirators and masks to food and drink, and even money. People first, property second. These were Legaspi’s priority concerns when he arrived at the hospital less than an hour after he received news of the fire. He scoured all levels of the Central Block to check that everyone had been evacuated before working with responders and hospital personnel to move equipment out of danger. He estimated the damage at around P50 million. Screenshots from Dr. Dofitas’ presentation during the May 23 episode of the UP “Stop COVID Deaths” webinar. Watch the episode on TVUP’s YouTube channel. Dofitas added that it was the cooperation between UP PGH personnel, responders, patients, and watchers, all following the hospital’s preparedness plan, which ensured that no one perished in the fire and that damage was limited to property. “We knew what to do because we had regular drills,” Santiago said. This, on top of an updated disaster risk management plan that incorporated the health safety protocols of the pandemic. Appropriate evacuation areas had been identified. COVID-19 patients were separated from non-COVID-19 cases. Bagay concurred with Santiago. “It was just a matter of following the protocols in place.” Dr. Regina Berba, head of the UP PGH Hospital Infection Control Unit, revealed that no resulting infections from the evacuation have yet been reported. Institutional preparedness Willingness to act and help in times of disaster can only do so much without guidance on what needs to be done in an efficient manner. In fact, individual actions without adherence to plans in place, the “doing what I think is right” mindset, adds chaos to an already volatile situation, according to Dr. Carlos Primero Gundran, head of UPM DRRM. Dr. Carlos Primero Gundran, head of UPM DRRM, shows a strategic map of the UP-PGH during the May 23 episode of the UP “Stop COVID Deaths” webinar. Watch the episode on TVUP’s YouTube channel. This is where the Incident Command System (ICS) comes in. It plays a key role in managing emergency events and disasters. It is the unified system that makes sure the DRRMP is implemented effectively. “The ICS is used for command, control and coordination in managing an incident, and whose main purposes are for the safety of the responders and other personnel involved in the incident, achievement of tactical objectives, and efficient and optimal use of resources,” explained Genaro Cuaresma, UP Resilience Institute Director for Institution Building. He praised UP PGH’s DRRMP and ICS that “resulted in the presence of mind, timely response, and appropriate courses of action done by all personnel during the time of the incident, which averted a major disaster in the country’s leading government hospital.” It would not have been possible if they had not been capable and properly trained to handle such an event. “The immediate and orderly evacuation of the patients in the affected areas gave the Emergency Response Team time to evacuate and salvage expensive medical equipment in the ORSA and adjacent areas,” Cuaresma added. “UP PGH’s preparedness is worth emulating. . . . Like UP PGH, [other] institutions should conduct regular emergency drills which should be taken seriously. . . . Disaster preparedness is a continuing cycle of: (1) hazards and risks assessment; (2) building a plan; (3) capacity building; (4) testing and evaluating; and, (5) improving the plan. As such, an institution’s DRRMP, ICS, response protocols, and ERT readiness, among others, should be tested regularly.” As UP PGH responds to the COVID-19 pandemic, it is also fully capable of handling an emergency because it has the necessary tools, systems, and strategies in place. In any emergency or disaster, hospitals and health care facilities are one of the most important structures for survival; so there is no such thing as “overpreparedness” as Padilla called it. |
https://up.edu.ph/ana-patricia-non-to-talk-about-community-pantries-in-upcoming-upaa-e-kapihan/ | Ana Patricia Non to talk about community pantries in upcoming UPAA e-Kapihan – University of the Philippines | Ana Patricia Non to talk about community pantries in upcoming UPAA e-Kapihan Ana Patricia Non to talk about community pantries in upcoming UPAA e-Kapihan June 17, 2021 | Posted by UP Media and Public Relations Office Photo from the Ana Patricia Non (community pantry group) Facebook group page Since entrepreneur and University of the Philippines (UP) Fine Arts alumna Ana Patricia Non started the first community pantry on Maginhawa Street in Teacher’s Village, community pantries have sprung up everywhere across the country as symbols of the bayanihan spirit of Filipinos. Still, many others continue to express interest in setting up their own community pantries in their own localities. In an upcoming “e-Kapihan ng Bayan sa UP” to be hosted by the UP Alumni Association (UPAA), Ms. Non, the originator and benefactor behind the original free-food-for-the-poor project called the Maginhawa Community Pantry, will discuss the whys, whats, and hows of her altruistic brainchild, which has since been cloned in other parts of the city and the country. This “e-Kapihan ng Bayan sa UP” will be held online via Zoom on 22 June 2021, Tuesday, 10:00-11:00 a.m. (Manila time). Those interested are invited to register with the UPAA Secretariat at tels. 920-6868; 920-6871; mobile 0917-8372098; or e-mail upalumniasso@gmail.com to get the Zoom meeting ID and their personal participant’s passwords. The UPAA “e-Kapihan ng Bayan sa UP” is open to all UP alumni, faculty, and students, as well as the general public. The “e-Kapihan ng Bayan sa UP” is a public service project of the UPAA which aims to serve as a regular forum for intelligent and constructive discussion of issues relevant to our development as a nation. In a democracy like the Philippines, such public discourse is a valuable tool for guiding the national leaders and all concerned citizens to collectively confront and attempt to resolve the challenges posed by current issues of general concern. |
https://up.edu.ph/ups-first-stop-covid-deaths-webinar-for-2022-targets-the-omicron-wave/ | UP’s first Stop COVID Deaths webinar for 2022 targets the Omicron wave – University of the Philippines | UP’s first Stop COVID Deaths webinar for 2022 targets the Omicron wave UP’s first Stop COVID Deaths webinar for 2022 targets the Omicron wave January 11, 2022 | Posted by UP Media and Public Relations Office The new wave of COVID-19 infections sweeping the globe is caused mainly by the new Omicron variant. For the Philippines, an exponential increase in cases with a high positivity rate has been a cause of concern. Omicron is hospitalizing many people. Some patients are in intensive care. Experts predict that a surge is forthcoming during the next two weeks. As the holiday season seems to have created opportunities for the spread of Delta and Omicron, frontline health workers must be ahead of the curve in terms of information. The percentage of cases that Omicron causes are still unknown, and there are indications that there are still cases of Delta spreading. However, Omicron may have been causing a steep rise in patients during the past few days. People are testing positive despite complete vaccination. This first episode of the University of the Philippines (UP) “Stop COVID Deaths” webinar series for 2022 will have familiar speakers to open this year’s crucial discussion on the Omicron surge. Dr. Franco Felizarta, an infectious disease specialist from the US, will provide the latest information and everything we need to know about the variant based on scientific studies. Dr. John Wong, a senior epidemiologist of Epimeterics, will speak on the epidemiology of the current surge and projections. Dr. Anna Ong-Lim, a consultant for pediatrics at the UP Philippine General Hospital (UP PGH), will address homecare for COVID-19. Please register for the webinar here and catch our weekly live tweets and streams via the UP System Twitter Account and TVUP’s YouTube channel and Facebook pages. The Stop COVID Deaths Webinar Series is the Philippines’ first and only frontline-focused medical webinar series. It pioneered the discussion, dissemination, and adoption of knowledge on COVID-19 treatment and management. Follow our accounts to stay connected with your credible online community. We start this year with high hopes to again consolidate our ranks and find ways to serve those who need us the most. Welcome back to our “Stop COVID Deaths” 2022 webinar series. |
https://up.edu.ph/up-webinar-revisits-hospital-struggles-amid-covid-surge/ | UP webinar revisits hospital struggles amid COVID surge – University of the Philippines | UP webinar revisits hospital struggles amid COVID surge UP webinar revisits hospital struggles amid COVID surge January 26, 2022 | Written by Deina Blancaflor The University of the Philippines (UP), in partnership with UP Manila NIH National Telehealth Center and cooperation with UP Philippine General Hospital (PGH), invites you to join the fight against COVID-19. With the exponential spike in COVID-19 cases this month, hospitals are once again overwhelmed and understaffed. But while certain wards are allowed to close, the emergency room is the one part of a health facility that should always be up and running. The question is, how do we prevent emergency rooms from shutting down? Moving forward, emergency rooms and pre-hospital services around the country must rethink how they are organized. While frontliners must be protected, medical facilities should also treat COVID and non-COVID 19 patients effectively and efficiently. This episode of the UP “Stop COVID Deaths” webinar series is co-sponsored by the Philippine College of Emergency Medicine, featuring three hospital emergency room heads: Dr. April B. Llaneta from the UP PGH; Dr. Maria Veronica E. Datinguinoo from the East Avenue Medical Center; and Dr. Lourdes D. Jimenez from The Medical City. Dr. Teodoro J. Herbosa, the new head of the Department of Emergency Medicine at the UP PGH, will respond following the presentations. Dr. Richard Henry S. Santos, President of the Philippine College of Emergency Medicine, will deliver the opening remarks. UP Manila Chancellor Carmencita D. Padilla will provide the synthesis. This episode will air live on Friday, January 28, 2022, from 12 PM to 2 PM. Please register for the webinar here and catch our weekly live tweets and streams via the UP System Twitter Account and TVUP’s YouTube and Facebook pages. The Stop COVID Deaths Webinar Series is the Philippines’ first and only frontline-focused medical webinar series. It pioneered the discussion, dissemination, and adoption of knowledge on COVID-19 treatment and management. Follow our accounts to stay connected with your credible online community. Together, let’s stop COVID deaths! |
https://up.edu.ph/covid-and-disasters-ph-health-care-post-odette/ | COVID and disasters: PH health care post-Odette – University of the Philippines | COVID and disasters: PH health care post-Odette COVID and disasters: PH health care post-Odette February 3, 2022 | Written by Deina Blancaflor The University of the Philippines (UP), in partnership with UP Manila NIH National Telehealth Center and cooperation with UP Philippine General Hospital (PGH), invites you to join the fight against COVID-19. Last December 16 to 17, the strongest typhoon of 2021, Typhoon Odette (Rai), hit the Philippines. Odette’s rapid intensification in just 24 hours made it difficult for authorities to prepare and evacuate. The typhoon affected 11 out of 17 regions and ravaged more than 36 million homes, leaving nine million Filipinos displaced and scrambling. Odette happened simultaneously in the early stages of the Omicron surge. Today, there are at least 150,000 people still living in evacuation centers. A majority still have no access to water and electricity. Two hundred and twenty health facilities were also damaged, making access to primary care, mental health programs, and even COVID-19 vaccination rollouts difficult. On top of this, Omicron is gradually gaining a foothold outside the National Capital Region. How, then, can our health workforce prepare for the double whammy of COVID-19 surges amid super typhoons? As the third most disaster-prone country in the world, what are the long-term preparations and adjustments needed to protect us and our healthcare frontliners? How do we save everyone from disease outbreaks in massive evacuation centers? In this episode of the UP “Stop COVID Deaths” webinar series, titled “COVID-19 Na, May Bagyo Pa! Paano Na?”, we will take a step back and look at the impact of Typhoon Odette with consideration of the risks of the current Omicron surge. Join us this Friday, February 4, from 12 pm to 2 pm to hear the discussions of the Department of Health (DOH) Undersecretary for Visayas and Mindanao, Dr. Abdullah B. Dumama, Jr. Dr. Mariella S. Castillo of UNICEF will also talk about displacement and its impact on children. Finally, Dr. Carlos Primero Gundran from UP Manila will discuss public health policy, preparedness, and response implications for typhoons and infectious disease outbreaks. Former UP PGH Director and DOH Undersecretary Dr. Johnny Nañagas will deliver the opening remarks. UP Manila Chancellor Dr. Carmencita D. Padilla will provide the closing synthesis. Register here and catch our weekly live tweets and streams via the UP System Twitter Account and TVUP’s YouTube and Facebook pages. The Stop COVID Deaths Webinar Series is the Philippines’ first and only frontline-focused medical webinar series. It pioneered the discussion, dissemination, and adoption of knowledge on COVID-19 treatment and management. Follow our accounts to stay connected with your credible online community. Together, let’s stop COVID deaths! |
https://up.edu.ph/up-webinar-to-discuss-the-possibility-of-war-what-it-means-for-us/ | UP webinar to discuss the possibility of war, what it means for us – University of the Philippines | UP webinar to discuss the possibility of war, what it means for us UP webinar to discuss the possibility of war, what it means for us February 23, 2022 | Written by Deina Blancaflor The University of the Philippines (UP), in partnership with UP Manila-NIH National Telehealth Center and cooperation with UP Philippine General Hospital (PGH), invites you to join the fight against COVID-19. History teaches us that wars and plagues often go together. With the brewing tension between Ukraine and Russia, the world waits and watches how events between them will unfold. However, this conflict could also have adverse effects worldwide. How should countries prepare for this amid our battles with the pandemic? How are we preparing and ensuring the safety of our overseas Filipino workers (OFWs)? The Philippines is far from economic recovery because of COVID-19. The possibility of war will further hurt us. We may have to repatriate many of our OFWs. How should we ensure the safe passage of our OFWs without risking the spread of the virus? How do we prepare the health sector for this? Can we negotiate these developments without causing fear and panic? In this special UP “Stop COVID Deaths” webinar, titled, “Giyera sa Panahon ng Pandemya: Apektado Ba Tayo?”, we take a break from clinical discussions and zoom out to look at the bigger global security picture and how that could affect us in the middle of a pandemic. The episode will air on Friday, February 25, 2022, from 12 pm to 2 pm. We will hear perspectives from Dr. Antonio G.M. La Viña, UP Law Professorial Lecturer on constitutional law, Former Dean of the Ateneo School of Government, and Former Environment Undersecretary. Dr. Juan Ma. Pablo Nañagas, former PGH Director and Health Undersecretary, and Dr. Daniel Lising, Global Health Expert of the UP College of Law, will also be speakers in this program. Dr. Teodoro J. Herbosa, Senior Adviser of the National Task Force Against COVID-19 and Chair of the Department of Emergency Medicine at the UP PGH, will deliver the opening remarks. Dr. Carmencita D. Padilla, UP Manila Chancellor, will give the synthesis and closing remarks. Register here and join us as we explore more updates about health and the pandemic as we come to a better understanding of current global events vis-à-vis COVID-19. The UP “Stop COVID Deaths” webinar series is the Philippines’ first and only frontline-focused medical webinar series. It pioneered the discussion, dissemination, and adoption of knowledge on COVID-19 treatment and management. Follow our accounts to stay connected with your credible online community. |
https://up.edu.ph/up-webinar-discusses-covid-19-effects-after-infection/ | UP webinar discusses COVID-19 effects after infection – University of the Philippines | UP webinar discusses COVID-19 effects after infection UP webinar discusses COVID-19 effects after infection June 16, 2021 | Written by Jo. Florendo B. Lontoc Medical experts will discuss the possible long-term effects of COVID-19 infection in the 57th edition of the University of the Philippines (UP) webinar series, “Stop COVID Deaths”, to be livestreamed on June 18, 2021, at 12 noon. The webinar, “Gagaling pa ba Ako, Doc?: Mga Pangmatagalang Komplikasyon ng COVID-19 (Will I Ever be Cured, Doc? Long-Term Complications of COVID-19)”, will be based on a case study from the UP Philippine General Hospital (PGH), one of the country’s COVID-19 referral centers. “More than a year after the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, we now know that some patients have new, recurring, or ongoing symptoms and clinical findings more than four weeks after infection,” the webinar organizers said. “Under the broad heading of ‘post-COVID conditions’, longer term effects can occur even in those with mild or asymptomatic infections,” they added. The webinar is the 57th in the weekly series produced by UP in partnership with the UP Manila National Institutes of Health-National Telehealth Center (UPM-NIH-NTC) and in cooperation with the UP-PGH. The series aims to tap into the experiences of clinicians, hospital administrators, and researchers to bridge the gap between knowledge and practice in the clinical management of COVID-19 cases. This week, a case study will be presented by Dr. Ian Gabrielle Hipol and discussed by Dr. Marishiel Samonte, both from the Department of Family and Community Medicine of UP-PGH. Reactors include Dr. Leonora Fernandez from the Division of Pulmonary Medicine; Dr. Sharon Ignacio from the Department of Rehabilitation Medicine; and Dr. Sedric John Factor from the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Medicine. The webinar will also feature inputs from UP College of Medicine Dean Charlotte Chiong, who will deliver the opening remarks, and UPM-NIH-NTC Adjunct Faculty Dr. Susan Pineda-Mercado, who will deliver the closing remarks and synthesis of the discussions. Those who wish to participate in the webinar may register at bit.ly/StopCOVIDDeathsWebinar57. If registration reaches full capacity, a YouTube Live broadcast will also be available on TVUP’s website and YouTube channel. Certificates of attendance will be issued to those who have attended at least 50% of the webinar duration. |
https://up.edu.ph/can-children-get-covid-up-webinar-explores-the-topic/ | Can children get COVID? UP webinar explores the topic – University of the Philippines | Can children get COVID? UP webinar explores the topic Can children get COVID? UP webinar explores the topic June 30, 2021 | Posted by UP Media and Public Relations Office Can children get COVID? In the early part of the pandemic, it was believed that COVID-19 and its moderate and severe forms were mainly a risk for adults, particularly adults with comorbidities like heart disease, diabetes or diseases of the immune system. The upcoming 59th episode of the University of the Philippines (UP) “Stop COVID Deaths” webinar series, an episode co-sponsored by the Philippine Pediatric Society and its regional chapters, will take a closer look at Philippine data on COVID19 and children, its risks, symptoms and management. The webinar is slated for Friday, 2 July 2021, at 12:00 noon. To participate in the webinar, register here. The webinar will also be aired on TVUP’s YouTube channel. Data suggests that fewer children get infected compared to adults, and that children exhibit primarily mild symptoms or are even asymptomatic. However, reports from other parts of the world point to how some children can get severely ill from COVID-19. They might require hospitalization, intensive care, or a ventilator to help them breathe. In rare cases, they might die. Researchers from India have recently reported a rare but serious medical condition associated with COVID-19 in children called Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome in Children (MIS-C). According to the report, this condition usually develops four to six weeks after children and teenagers have recovered from COVID-19. Babies under a year old and children with certain underlying conditions may be more likely to have severe illness from COVID-19. This Friday’s webinar will present data from studies done at the UP Philippine General Hospital (UP-PGH) to be presented by Dr. Maria Liza Antoinette M. Gonzales. A teen from the United States, Millie Velasquez Walker, who has had COVID and still has lingering symptoms, will join the panel. Another teenager, Patrick De Guzman from the Philippines, will offer the perspective from Manila. The Department of Education, through Undersecretary Diosdado M. San Antonio, will share its perspective on the topic. Opening remarks will be delivered by Dr. Joselyn Eusebio, President of the Philippine Pediatric Society, and closing remarks by Dr. Carmencita D. Padilla, Chancellor of the University of the Philippines Manila. |
https://up.edu.ph/three-people-one-ventilator-up-webinar-takes-on-covid-19-crisis-level-hospital-care/ | Three people, one ventilator: UP webinar takes on COVID-19 crisis-level hospital care – University of the Philippines | Three people, one ventilator: UP webinar takes on COVID-19 crisis-level hospital care Three people, one ventilator: UP webinar takes on COVID-19 crisis-level hospital care June 23, 2021 | Posted by UP Media and Public Relations Office In a pandemic, scarcity of resources is a given. Historically, pandemics are characterized by shortages of human, financial, material and infrastructure resources. For the COVID-19 pandemic, even developed countries with a tremendous amount of resources for staff, equipment, drugs and medicines have experienced shortages, huge gaps in service delivery and severe distress among patients and providers because of ethical and moral dilemmas as to who should be prioritized in crisis situations. For instance, what happens in the health facility when three people need a ventilator and only one is available? This question can be a matter of life and death. Should the decision be made by patients? What is the role of the family? Is it for the doctor and the medical team to decide? Are there guidelines to help decide on who gets access to a bed, a drug or a ventilator? The 58th installment of the University of the Philippines webinar series, “Stop COVID Deaths”, “Who gets the last ventilator? COVID-19 Crisis-Level Hospital Care”, is a virtual grand rounds that will discuss this critical issue by using the ventilator as a proxy for any life-saving intervention. The webinar will be held on 25 June 2021, Friday, at 12:00 noon. Sign up for registration slots at bit.ly/StopCOVIDDeathsWebinar58, or watch the webinar on TVUP’s YouTube channel. While the Philippines has not experienced a shortage of ventilators, preparedness for a surge requires taking a closer look at our challenges in relation to scarce resources for life-saving interventions. Among the questions to be faced are: Do we just need more supplies? Do we need a system for sharing of supplies across regions? Do we need guidance on how to manage and monitor limited supplies within institutions, across health facilities and centrally across the country? Main presenter for this week’s “Stop COVID Deaths” webinar is Dr. Leonora Fernandez, Chief of the Division of Pulmonary Medicine, UP Philippine General Hospital (UP-PGH). The panel of reactors include: Maria Fatima Lorenzo, President of the Philippine Alliance of Patient Organizations; Dr. Ralph Elvi Villalobos, consultant with the Division of Pulmonary Medicine at the UP-PGH; Atty. James Dennis Gumpal, head of the UP Manila Legal Office; and, Prof. Leonardo De Castro of the Department of Philosophy, UP Diliman. Opening remarks will be by Dr. Marita Reyes, head of HTAC, former Chancellor of UP Manila and former Dean of the UP College of Medicine, with synthesis and closing remarks by Dr. Charlotte M. Chiong, Dean of the UP College of Medicine. The “Stop COVID Deaths” webinar series is produced by the University of the Philippines in partnership with UP Manila NIH National Telehealth Center and in cooperation with UP-PGH. |
https://up.edu.ph/up-stop-covid-deaths-webinar-takes-on-public-transport-in-the-time-of-covid/ | UP “Stop COVID Deaths” webinar takes on public transport in the time of COVID – University of the Philippines | UP “Stop COVID Deaths” webinar takes on public transport in the time of COVID UP “Stop COVID Deaths” webinar takes on public transport in the time of COVID October 13, 2021 | Written by Deina Blancaflor The University of the Philippines (UP), in partnership with UP Manila National Institute of Health (NIH), the National Telehealth Center and in cooperation with UP Philippine General Hospital (PGH), would like to invite you to join the fight against COVID-19. Efficient transportation has always been an issue in the Philippines. It is no surprise that it has also been gravely affected during this pandemic. The main concern is how to safely transport workers, emergency cases, and most especially, frontliners in their day-to-day jobs. We are not likely to go back to pre-COVID times soon, so we must adapt and find ways to stay safe as we go about the business of living and making a living. This Friday, October 15, from 12pm-2pm, we shall discuss all this in the “Stop COVID Deaths” webinar episode, “Travel in the Time of COVID-19”. With the highly transmissible Delta Variant, especially in closed spaces, will public transport be safe? Likewise, is there enough ventilation in LRTs and MRTs? What kind of precautions should we be taking to stay safe while traveling? The webinar will discuss taking public transportation every day and traveling to farther places by plane, land, and sea. What are the requirements when moving from one province to another? Is there enough information, training, and capacity in the transport system to ensure no risk of contracting and further spreading the virus? Our main speaker, Hon. Bernadette Romulo-Puyat, Secretary of the Department of Tourism, will enlighten us about the topic. She will discuss current measures that are being undertaken to protect both our domestic and international tourism industries. Alongside Hon. Romulo-Puyat are three panel reactors: Engr. Gerald Jo Denoga, Assistant Dean for Research of the UP College of Engineering in Diliman, Prof. Richard Gonzalo, Assistant Vice President of the UP System and Professor at the UP Asian Institute of Tourism, and Cielo Villaluna, Philippine Airlines (PAL) spokesperson. UP Manila Chancellor Dr. Carmencita D. Padilla will give the closing remarks. Sign up here and catch our weekly live tweets and streams via the UP System Twitter Account and TVUP’s YouTube and Facebook pages. The “Stop COVID Deaths” webinar series is the Philippines’ first and only frontline-focused medical webinar series. It has pioneered the discussion, dissemination, and adoption of knowledge on COVID-19 treatment and management. Register here and follow our accounts to stay connected with your credible online community. |
https://up.edu.ph/up-webinar-everything-we-know-about-covid-19-booster-shots/ | UP Webinar: Everything we know about COVID-19 ‘booster shots’ – University of the Philippines | UP Webinar: Everything we know about COVID-19 ‘booster shots’ UP Webinar: Everything we know about COVID-19 ‘booster shots’ November 4, 2021 | Written by Deina Blancaflor The University of the Philippines (UP), in partnership with the UP Manila NIH National Telehealth Center and in cooperation with the UP Philippine General Hospital (PGH), would like to invite you to join the fight against COVID-19. This Friday, November 5, from 12:00 to 2:00 pm, the “Stop COVID Deaths” webinar series will tackle one of the most talked-about topics regarding COVID-19 and vaccines: booster shots. Titled “COVID-19 Boosters Na, Mix-and-Match Ba?” this special episode will discuss all the latest updates regarding the rollout of booster shots here in the Philippines. With only 24.96 percent of the country’s total population fully vaccinated, how will the booster shots rollout look like? Do we have enough vaccines for primary and booster doses? What’s the difference between a “booster shot” and the third shot of vaccine? What does the science tell us about mixing and matching different COVID-19 vaccine brands? We will hear updates from our speakers, Dr. Eric Domingo, Undersecretary for Health and Director-General of the Philippine Food and Drug Administration (FDA); Dr. Marie Carmela Lapitan, UP Professor of Clinical Epidemiology; and Dr. Christia Padolina, City Health Officer of Navotas. Through his opening remarks, Dr. Ted Herbosa, Special Advisor to the National Task Force Against COVID-19, will provide the “big picture” scenario. At the same time, UP Manila Chancellor Carmencita Padilla will close the event with her synthesis. Please register for the webinar here and catch our weekly live tweets and streams via the UP System Twitter Account and TVUP’s YouTube and Facebook pages. The “Stop COVID Deaths” webinar series is the Philippines’ first and only frontline-focused medical webinar series. It pioneered the discussion, dissemination, and adoption of knowledge on COVID-19 treatment and management. Follow our accounts to stay connected with your credible online community. |
https://up.edu.ph/ups-public-service-conference-highlights-bayanihan-compassion-hope-and-trust-during-the-pandemic/ | UP’s public service conference highlights Bayanihan, compassion, hope, and trust during the pandemic – University of the Philippines | UP’s public service conference highlights Bayanihan, compassion, hope, and trust during the pandemic UP’s public service conference highlights Bayanihan, compassion, hope, and trust during the pandemic November 24, 2021 | Written by Franco Gargantiel II Can the most significant global public health crisis lead to a reawakening of the greatest human values of altruism, compassion, and trust? According to the speakers at the University of the Philippines’ (UP) 4th Colleges and Universities Public Service Conference (CUPSCon), yes, it can. The UP Padayon Public Service Office held this year’s CUPSCon on October 21, 2021, via online platforms. The purpose of this conference was to share information with the attendees on the best practices and challenges that come with public service and the direction where future public service is heading. Screenshot by Misael Bacani, UPMPRO. This year’s theme was “Public Service in Time of COVID: The Role of Academic-Community Partnership in Addressing the Challenges of a Global Pandemic,” which aimed to highlight how the partnerships between academe and other institutions have played a pivotal role in combating and handling the global COVID-19 pandemic and showcasing the various engagements of academe with multiple sectors such as government, civil society, communities, and industries in its pursuit of public service. In her welcome address, UP Vice President for Public Affairs, Elena E. Pernia noted that within the past 18 months since the beginning of the pandemic, the Filipino public has gone through five forms of emotions: anxiety, empathy, anger, hope, and boredom, with anxiety and empathy being the two most dominant emotions. Different factors played a large part in creating anxiety among Filipinos, such as the government’s handling of the pandemic, information on the virus, and the rising number of positive cases. UP VP for Public Affairs Elena Pernia presents a graphic showing five human emotions expressed by the Filipino public in social media during the pandemic, with anxiety (dark blue) and empathy (light blue) being the most predominant. Screenshot by Misael Bacani, UPMPRO. “Despite these negative feelings, our struggles with COVID-19 have awakened our innate ability to empathize and to become compassionate,” Pernia said. Various examples of Filipinos exhibiting compassion include donations to frontline workers from prominent individuals and companies, which have gained massive traction from the online community. “Bayanihan is a beautiful Filipino term and an even more meaningful response at this time of the pandemic. Bayanihan, that Filipino spirit that encapsulates solidarity, cooperation, partnership, and compassion becomes manifest as various sectors think together in spontaneous magnanimity, to volunteer their services and to provide funds, consumable goods, various health equipment, and supplies, innovative solutions, and even quarantine facilities and testing center.” Pernia finished by talking about this year’s CUPSCon highlights, the resilience and stories of human kindness that helped Filipinos in their daily lives combating the COVID-19 pandemic. UP Padayon Public Service Office Director Jeanette Yasol-Naval introduced the keynote speaker, UP PGH Director Gerardo Legaspi. Screenshot by Misael Bacani, UPMPRO. Dr. Gerardo P. Legaspi, Director of the UP Philippine General Hospital (UP PGH), spoke on his experiences with the UP PGH during the COVID pandemic. He said that the future was looking bright for the hospital before the pandemic. However, once the coronavirus began to spread, both the hospital’s patients and staff members experienced fear of and uncertainty with this new contagious disease, to the point where they had to suspend their services as a safety measure temporarily. Dr. Legaspi also mentioned that while there were doubts once they converted the hospital into a COVID center, it did not take long until people from different communities and organizations came together to cooperate. UP PGH Director Legaspi shared the experiences of the UP PGH staff during the pandemic. Screenshot by Misael Bacani, UPMPRO. According to Dr. Legaspi, this pandemic has proven no more valuable resource than human resources. He said that with help from many people, they managed the fear from the pandemic, kept up to date with the latest information on the virus, and kept both their frontline workers and patients feel safe and comfortable through PPE, housing, and transport. What started initially as a war against COVID-19 blossomed became a cooperative partnership, a source of pride and inspiration. And it wasn’t just his staff that came together but various communities that offered their support, such as the UP System, Big Business, NGOs, other hospitals, and many other influential individuals. Dr. Legaspi said that hope was an essential factor that led to the creation of all these partnerships. “I think at that time when it was very chaotic, and there was no clear plan in what was going to be done, maybe the PGH offered a glimmer of hope of some organization or some scientific reasoning for what is being done. And just maybe, that the healthcare workers continue to report working in the hospital that everything will be alright,” he said. He mentioned that the next vital factor in helping secure and maintain their relationship was trust. “Trust is what brings forth continuous partnerships and continuous relationships with our benefactors.” UP PGH Dir. Legaspi articulates the contexts and commitments of medical frontliners during the pandemic. Screenshot by Misael Bacani, UPMPRO. Dr. Legaspi ended his talk by comparing his UP PGH trainees’ experience with his own from the EDSA Revolution in 1986 when it came to the massive disruption in their daily lives and the uncertainty and fear around them. Just as he learned so much when he was on the field, his trainees were able to learn very much as well. They should be proud to claim that they were there during these challenging times by providing support and continuing to support them after the pandemic. Watch the CUPSCon virtual plenary here. |
https://up.edu.ph/up-makes-clinical-trials-of-vco-vs-covid-19/ | UP makes clinical trials of VCO vs COVID-19 – University of the Philippines | UP makes clinical trials of VCO vs COVID-19 UP makes clinical trials of VCO vs COVID-19 July 2, 2021 | Written by Jo. Florendo B. Lontoc Photo from the UP PGH Facebook page. The UP Philippine General Hospital (PGH) is not only the country’s biggest and premiere tertiary referral hospital, it is also a University hospital, which is a critical facility for training and research in the service of the country’s public health sector. The PGH being designated by the Department of Health as a COVID-19 tertiary referral center in March 2020 was an affirmation of the government’s regard of the institution for fighting the pandemic. Since then, PGH has been accepting the most serious cases of COVID-19 infections, while not sacrificing its mandate as a general hospital for the masses. It has shared experience and learnings in the clinical management of the disease, primarily through a weekly public webinar. With its proven expertise, the hospital has been allowed compassionate use of convalescent plasma treatment, which has shown promising results for treating serious COVID-19 infections. UP-PGH is also now the venue of a pioneering study by the University of the Philippines, “Virgin Coconut Oil (VCO) as Adjunctive Therapy for Hospitalized COVID-19 Patients”, in collaboration with the Philippine Coconut Authority and the Philippine Council for Health Research and Development of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST-PCHRD). The principal investigators are Marissa Alejandria, MD and Leslie Michelle Dalmacio, PhD, both of UP Manila. The research aims to verify the safety and efficacy of a VCO dosage as a therapy to supplement the treatment of hospitalized COVID-19 patients, aged 18 years old and above, admitted at the PGH. Involving more than 75 participants, it began in October 2020. The patients are administered a certain dose of VCO orally. Patients are observed as regards to primary outcomes such as: recovery or resolution of symptoms and duration of hospital stay; the duration by which symptoms progress to a point where patient may need intensive care unit admission or use of ventilation machine after onset of VCO administration; and, a series of blood test outcomes. The time it takes after the VCO administration until a negative result from an RT-PCR test is also monitored. The PGH clinical trials come in the heels of earlier research pointing to VCO antimicrobial properties, benefits to the immune system, and relief of inflammatory conditions and other symptoms in mild and suspect COVID-19 cases. Dr. Fabian Dayrit, Ateneo de Manila University chemistry professor and President of the Integrated Chemists of the Philippines, had led in-vitro research supported by DOST-PCHRD that showed compounds from VCO decrease coronavirus count by 60-90 percent when there is low viral load. The results were announced in October last year, with emphasis on VCO’s capability to boost the body’s immune response against COVID-19. In an article by the Institute of Food Technologists, Dayrit explains that ingesting VCO results in the body’s production of the compounds he studied, monolaurin and lauric acid. “Together, monolaurin and lauric acid have the physicochemical property of being able to destroy the membrane of lipid-coated viruses,” according to the article. “What is needed now are clinical trials to validate this and to recommend the amount of intake,” Dayrit says in the article. Dayrit’s work, published through a paper co-authored with Dr. Mary Newport, was followed by a study by the DOST’s Food and Nutrition Research Institute using results of the tests done on 57 people at a community hospital and quarantine facility in Laguna. A press release from the Institute says that five of 29 patients, probable and suspect COVID-19 cases, who were served meals with VCO manifested diminishing signs and symptoms as early as the second day. The patients who were served meals with VCO showed no COVID-19 related symptoms at Day 18, while symptoms persisted in some patients who were served the same meals without VCO until Day 23. The overall conclusion was VCO helped reduce the severity of symptoms of patients with mild COVID-19 and those suspected of infection. Administering VCO to more serious patients in the hospital setting was the next logical step, according to experts. “Indeed, we look forward to the results of clinical trials on the various uses of VCO as an adjunct for the treatment of COVID-19,” Dr. Jaime C. Montoya, Executive Director of the PCHRD, said in a council’s press release. The UPLB National Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology. Photo from the UPLB Biotech-Nat’l Institute of Molecular Biology & Biotechnology FB page. UP has been at the forefront of VCO studies with the UP Los Baños National Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology or BIOTECH being a part of the technical working group for the revision of the Philippine National Standard for VCO in 2006. This wasaccording to a status report in 2007 by National Scientist Bienvenido Juliano, of UP Los Baños. At about the same time, the UP Manila National Institutes of Health commissioned a literature review on public health and epidemiological research needs and issues regarding coconut oil and cardiovascular diseases. A couple of years earlier, Dr. Conrado Dayrit of the UP Manila College of Medicine had “started testing the dietary oil on HIV-positive patients and this bold initiative drew the nation’s interest and woke up a sleeping industry on the healing potential of VCO,” said DOST’s Fortunato dela Peña in a 2007 National Academy of Science and Technology monograph. Main Reference: Virgin Coconut Oil as Adjunctive Therapy for Hospitalized COVID-19 Patients-Tabular View-ClinicalTrials.gov. (2021). Clinicaltrials.gov. https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/record/NCT04849637?view=record, accessed June 30, 2021. Other References: Juliano, Bienvenido O. “Overview and Rationale”. Virgin Coconut Oil: State of the Art, edited by NS Bienvenido O. Juliano. NAST Monograph Series 14 2007. https://www.nast.ph/images/pdf%20files/Publications/Monograph%20Series/NAST%20Monograph%20Series%2014.pdf, accessed June 30, 2021. Fortunato de la Peña-Posts. (2021). Facebook.com. https://web.facebook.com/dostSecFTP/posts/1549041775247381/, accessed June 30, 2021. De la Peña, Fortunato O. “Message”. Ibid. The Potential of Coconut Oil and its Derivatives as Effective and Safe Antiviral Agents Against the Novel Coronavirus (nCoV-2019). (2020, January 31). Ateneo de Manila University. http://ateneo.edu/ls/sose/sose/news/research/potential-coconut-oil-and-its-derivatives-effective-and-safe-antiviral, accessed June 30, 2021. Researchers think coconut oil may help treat COVID-19 patients-IFT.org. (2020, April 20). Ift.org. https://www.ift.org/iftnext/2020/april/researchers-think-coconut-oil-may-help-treat-covid-19-patients, accessed June 30, 2021. Gumaru, M. (2020). Virgin coconut oil (VCO) study results on COVID-19 suspect and probable cases released by DOST-FNRI. FNRI Website. https://fnri.dost.gov.ph/index.php/programs-and-projects/news-and-announcement/800-virgin-coconut-oil-vco-study-results-on-covid-19-suspect-and-probable-cases-released-by-dost-fnri, accessed June 30, 2021. Christine Jane Gonzalez. (2020). VCO a potential antiviral agent against COVID-19-Filipino research. PCHRD Website. https://www.pchrd.dost.gov.ph/index.php/news/6599-vco-a-potential-antiviral-agent-against-covid-19-filipino-research, accessed June 30, 2021. Thaddeus, D., & Gauiran, V. (n.d.). Treatment for Emerging Infections: Convalescent Plasma and COVID-19. https://home.nbbnets.net/nvbsp-v2/downloadables/lectures/NVBSP-WEBINAR_DeonneGauiran_TreatmentForEmergingInfections.pdf, accessed June 30, 2021. VCO trials on serious COVID-19 cases, patients with comorbidities pushed. (2021). CNN. https://cnnphilippines.com/news/2021/4/16/virgin-coconut-oil-COVID-19-patients.html, accessed June 30, 2021. Ma. Cristina Arayata. (2020, August 5). VCO clinical trial in PGH might start this week: DOST chief. @Pnagovph; Philippine News Agency. https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1111130, accessed June 30, 2021. |
https://up.edu.ph/up-webinar-to-talk-about-domestic-abuse-during-covid-19/ | UP webinar to talk about domestic abuse during COVID-19 – University of the Philippines | UP webinar to talk about domestic abuse during COVID-19 UP webinar to talk about domestic abuse during COVID-19 November 24, 2021 | Written by Deina Blancaflor Trigger warning: mentions of violence, abuse The University of the Philippines (UP), in partnership with the UP Manila NIH National Telehealth Center and in cooperation with UP Philippine General Hospital (UP PGH), would like you to join the fight against COVID-19. “Wear your masks, practice proper hygiene, and only go out when necessary.” These have been the health protocols and guidelines we have been following ever since the start of the pandemic. Especially in the early stages where vaccines were not available yet, people limited themselves from going out, hence the multiple quarantines and lockdowns across the globe. However, along with this deadly virus emerged a so-called “shadow pandemic,” or the alarming rise in domestic violence and abuse against women and children. “In the case of COVID-19, isolation, restricted movement, and stay-at-home measures to contain the spread of the infection have a particularly acute impact on women. The chances of women and their children being exposed to violence dramatically increased. Family members spend more time in close contact, and household stress intensifies. The risk grows even greater when families also have to cope with potential economic or job losses,” the World Health Organization (WHO) recognizes. This particular episode of the Stop COVID Deaths webinar series will discuss this very problem. Titled “Stay Safe, Stay Home Daw: Domestic Violence and Abuse during the COVID-19 Pandemic,” the webinar will focus on how we, as frontliners, can help address this pressing issue. The webinar will be from 12 pm to 2 pm on Friday, November 26. Dr. Bernadette Madrid, a multi-awarded pediatrician who initiated the Child Protection Unit at UP PGH and the thought leader in child abuse as a public health problem in the Philippines, will present data, contexts, challenges, and long-term effects child abuse against the backdrop of COVID-19. You will also hear from Dr. Vanessa-Maria F. Torres-Ticzon, training officer of the Division of Adolescent Medicine at PGH, who will discuss abuse and teenage pregnancy among girls ages 10 to 14. Dr. Lyra Ruth Chua, past president of the Philippine Obstetrical and Gynecological Society and head of the Task Force on Gender-based Violence, will present the importance of a multidisciplinary team and training conducted throughout the country through women and children’s protection units around the country. Atty. Katrina Legarda, a renowned lawyer for women’s rights, will discuss the legal dimensions of this growing problem. UP PGH Deputy Director for Health Operations Dr. Stella Marie L. Jose will deliver the synthesis and closing remarks. Please register for the webinar here and catch our weekly live tweets and streams via the UP System Twitter Account and TVUP’s YouTube and Facebook pages. Join us in spreading the word about this shadow pandemic, and together, let’s all stop COVID deaths. The “Stop COVID Deaths” webinar series is the Philippines’ first and only frontline-focused medical webinar series. It pioneered the discussion, dissemination, and adoption of knowledge on COVID-19 treatment and management. Follow our accounts to stay connected with your credible online community. |
https://up.edu.ph/up-expanding-the-pgh-to-serve-more-filipinos/ | UP expanding the PGH to serve more Filipinos – University of the Philippines | UP expanding the PGH to serve more Filipinos UP expanding the PGH to serve more Filipinos March 14, 2022 | Written by UP Media and Public Relations Office Perspective of the UP-Philippine General Hospital Complex in Manila. Illustration from the Public-Private Partnership Center. The University of the Philippines (UP) is one step closer to providing ordinary Filipinos greater access to its brand of world-class and affordable tertiary hospital care and comprehensive cancer care through two upcoming projects: the UP Philippine General Hospital (UP PGH) Cancer Center and the UP PGH Diliman. On March 10, 2022, the proposals for the two major infrastructure projects were elevated by the Investment Coordination Committee-Technical Working Group (ICC-TWG) to the ICC Technical Board (ICC-TB) for re-endorsement to the ICC Cabinet Committee (ICC-CC). The ICC-CC is the highest decision-making body in the Executive Branch that approves major capital projects. Hopes are high for the ICC-CC’s elevation of these priority health projects to the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) Board. Once the NEDA Board approves the projects, the bidding for private sector partners will begin. High-quality and affordable cancer care for poor Filipinos Cancer affects all age groups and all bodily systems and is now the second leading cause of mortality in the country after diseases of the heart and the vascular system. The UP Manila National Institutes of Health’s Institute of Human Genetics study showed that 189 of every 100,000 Filipinos have cancer. In comparison, four Filipinos die of cancer every hour, or 96 cancer patients every day. In 2020, over 150,000 new cases and 90,000 deaths were recorded[1]. During the first half of 2021, over 27,000 deaths from cancer were recorded by the Philippine Statistics Authority or 9% of the total deaths during this period. The UP Philippine General Hospital in UP Manila, Ermita. Photo from the UP PGH Facebook page. The UP-PGH Cancer Center is the University’s response to cancer care’s growing challenge and complexity. It will be a 200 to 300-bed dedicated cancer center within the University’s Manila campus in Ermita. With at least half of all beds exclusively serving underprivileged Filipinos, the new facility will offer advanced, integrated, and affordable oncology care services to those who cannot otherwise access the kind of treatments available in private hospitals. The UP-PGH Cancer Center will be structured as a 30-year Build Transfer Operate (“BTO”) arrangement under the Build-Operate-Transfer Law and its Implementing Rules and Regulations. The private partner will design, finance, construct and commission a new standalone hospital building with a dedicated 150-bed area for charity patients and a 50-150 bed area for paying patients. The UP-PGH will provide all clinical services free of charge for charity patients, while the private sector will offer clinical services to paying patients. The private partner will also provide all major equipment, including replacement equipment, and undertake maintenance and management of the facilities and non-clinical services such as cleaning, catering, laundry, and security for the entire hospital under a 30-year PPP concession. The UP-PGH in northern Metro Manila The UP PGH is the largest government tertiary hospital in the country and the only national referral center for tertiary care. From its 10-hectare site in the UP Manila campus, and with its 1,100 beds and 400 private beds, the UP PGH provides direct and high-quality medical and healthcare to more than 600,000 patients every year, including thousands indigent Filipinos from all over the country. But with the growing population of Metro Manila alone, 13.4 million as of 2020 and counting, the UP PGH has been constrained by its limited space and capacity from serving more patients and reaching more communities, especially the underserved communities in northern Metro Manila as well as in nearby provinces. The proposed UP PGH Diliman, to be built on a 4.2-hectare area in the UP Diliman campus in Quezon City, near the Philippine Nuclear Research Institute, is envisioned to fill that gap, making world-class hospital care accessible to more Filipinos, especially the poor. The UP PGH Diliman will be a 700-bed public tertiary hospital accessible to the poor. It aims to complement and enhance the capacity and services of the original UP PGH in Manila. Drawing on the University’s knowledge and research capacities in many disciplines, from the STEM fields to the social sciences to the arts and humanities, the UP PGH Diliman hopes to be the top research hospital in the country. It will complement and enhance the network of health facilities and specialized hospitals in the Quezon City area. The UP PGH Diliman will include, among others, an outpatient department building, a main hospital building, a central podium/administration building, a College of Medicine and Research Laboratory building, and a parking building. It will offer the following specialty services: Genomics and Genomic Research Neurovascular Surgery and Neurosciences Oncology and Wellness Center Hospice and Palliative Care Primary Care in a Multispecialty Outpatient Facility Integrative Medicine Rehabilitation and Musculoskeletal Center Biomechanical Devices and Equipment Center Sports Medicine Hematology Infertility and Difficult Pregnancy Geriatrics and Home Care Disaster Risk and Reduction Special Services—Toxicology The first two services will also provide much-needed research on diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of Rare Neurological Diseases (RND). For the UP-PGH Diliman Project, the private sector partner or concessionaire will take on the task of designing, engineering, constructing, and commissioning the buildings and procuring and installing the medical and non-medical equipment. The private sector partner will also operate and maintain all non-clinical services, including facility maintenance, cleaning, laundry, catering, and security. On the other hand, the UP PGH will be responsible for providing the clinical, teaching, and research services and assume the costs of the clinical workforce, drugs, and consumables. The concessionaire’s contract length for the UP-PGH Diliman Project is 25 years. PPPs for healthcare The UP Oblation in front of the UP PGH. Photo by Jonathan Madrid (UP Media and Public Relations Office). The UP PGH Cancer Center and the UP PGH Diliman are Public-Private Partnership (PPP) projects. Through these projects, the Philippine health sector may develop a precedent for private-sector cooperation and coordination in providing cancer care for the population and, more broadly, for guided private-sector support of and participation in the public healthcare agenda. For most of the past decades, health investments in the public sector have not kept pace with population growth, and much of the sector’s growth was in the private health sector. Despite this, compared to their private counterparts, public servants in health are expected to serve a more significant and poorer fraction of the population in more challenging locations and with fewer colleagues. They also contend with inflexible and often laborious administrative burdens that hamper the work of specialty health care. Many government hospitals use outsourcing to meet their needs more responsively while also freeing up their human resources to focus on value-adding health care services for indigent patients. Back-of-the-house functions like janitorial, maintenance, and security services; critical systems like hospital information and communication technology; and advanced, highly clinical applications like hemodialysis units and laboratories are usually outsourced. The PPP structure was chosen for the two infrastructure projects after an intensive study found it the most cost-effective and efficient way to implement the projects, with a lower financial impact on the University than public procurement. Without the need for phased government financing, PPP also has a faster timeline for completion. The PPPs will not be privatized. UP remains the owner and operator. The University retains control of the private partner activities through contractual means, including the Minimum Performance Specifications and Standards (MPSS) and Key Performance Indicators (KPIs). Through agencies such as the DOH and the PPP Center, the national government has been encouraging the use of PPP as a possible delivery mechanism where the government can partner with the private sector in delivering quality and cost-efficient health services. Hospitals and other healthcare infrastructure are a vital necessity for the country during the pandemic and in a future where climate change, natural disasters, and new, potential diseases threaten the welfare of the people. Through the UP PGH Cancer Center and UP PGH Diliman projects, UP creates a model for state universities and colleges (SUCs) and other government agencies to conceptualize and implement their health infrastructure and services, all to ensure healthy lives and promote the well-being of all Filipinos from all walks of life. [1] Source: Globocan (2020) |
https://up.edu.ph/airborne-or-aerosol-up-webinar-answers-the-debate-on-covid-19-transmission/ | Airborne or aerosol: UP webinar answers the debate on COVID-19 transmission – University of the Philippines | Airborne or aerosol: UP webinar answers the debate on COVID-19 transmission Airborne or aerosol: UP webinar answers the debate on COVID-19 transmission July 7, 2021 | Posted by UP Media and Public Relations Office How exactly is COVID-19 transmitted? For the answer, watch the 60th episode in the University of the Philippines (UP) “Stop COVID Deaths” webinar series, which will be held on Friday, 9 July 2021, at 12:00 noon. The debate on the exact mode of transmission of SARS-CoV-2, the virus that has caused the COVID-19 pandemic, is typical for new viruses that require close examination. Apart from the fields of biology and medicine, information on the transmission of microbes benefits from the perspectives of engineers who can measure viral particles and recreate how these can move in the air; physicists who study the properties and behavior of particles; as well as infectious disease specialists who can link all this information to human behavior that creates risk of infection. We know that SARS-CoV-2 is transmitted through droplets. We know that certain hospital procedures can aerosolize the virus and make it airborne, which is why hospitals take airborne precautions. The question is, in the community, the workplace, homes and eventually in schools, are there situations where smaller particles can float in the air and still cause infection even after a person who sneezed or coughed has left the room? How long can the virus remain viable (i.e. capable of reproducing) in the air or on surfaces? What are the situations that have the highest risks in community transmission? How can we protect ourselves? Other questions are: Do we need to stay farther from each other to keep social distance? Completely refrain from eating indoors? How do we properly ventilate our offices, our homes and our schools? These questions and many more on the risks of SARS-CoV-2 transmission will be discussed in the UP “Stop COVID Deaths” 60th webinar. The main presenter is Prof. Gerald Jo C. Denoga, a Mechanical Engineering professor and Associate Dean for Research of the UP Diliman College of Engineering. Reactors are: Dr. Regina P. Berba, Head of the UP Philippine General Hospital (PGH) Hospital Infection Control Unit; and, Fr. Jett Villarin, SJ, a physicist and former President of the Ateneo de Manila University, with the special participation of veteran health broadcast journalist Niña Corpuz who will make a presentation on how to communicate health risks to the public. Opening remarks will be delivered by Dr. Elena E. Pernia, UP Vice President for Public Affairs, and closing remarks, by Dr. Charlotte M. Chiong, Dean of the UP College of Medicine. Register here, or watch the livestream on TVUP’s Youtube channel. |
https://up.edu.ph/up-webinar-focuses-on-covid-19-in-ph-provinces/ | UP webinar focuses on COVID-19 in PH provinces – University of the Philippines | UP webinar focuses on COVID-19 in PH provinces UP webinar focuses on COVID-19 in PH provinces September 15, 2021 | Written by Deina Blancaflor The University of the Philippines (UP), in partnership with UP Manila NIH National Telehealth Center, and in cooperation with UP Philippine General Hospital (UP PGH), invites you to join the fight against COVID-19. This Friday, September 17, at 12 noon, the “Stop COVID Deaths” webinar series will zero in on what’s happening in the provinces. While efforts are mostly focused on the NCR+ bubble, there’s no denying that COVID-19 cases are still steadily rising in the rural areas where hospitals are just as congested, if not more so. The “COVID-19 Outbreak sa Probinsya” episode will take a look at the situation on the ground in different provinces. What are the major challenges in vaccination, testing, treatment, and care? What are the innovations from the field? How are hospitals dealing with the lack of supply of RT-PCR tests, oxygen tanks, and ICU beds? And ultimately, how are frontliners in the provinces coping? The opening remarks will be given by Chancellor Fidel Nemenzo of UP Diliman. We will be hearing first hand from healthcare workers on the ground: Dr. Rio Magpantay, Regional Director of the Department of Health, will report on Region 2. Dr. Bryan Albert Lim of the Vicente Sotto Memorial Hospital will represent Cebu City. An infectious disease specialist, Dr. Leonell Albert Quintos, will discuss the situation in Central Mindanao. And Dr. Fahra Tan-Omar, Chief of Sulu Provincial Hospital, will share what’s happening in Jolo. The webinar will close with UP Manila Chancellor Carmencita Padilla’s synthesis and message. Register here and stay connected with your credible online community. |
https://up.edu.ph/official-statement-on-the-postponement-of-the-23rd-commencement-exercises-of-up-mindanao/ | Official Statement on the Postponement of the 23rd Commencement Exercises of UP Mindanao – University of the Philippines | Official Statement on the Postponement of the 23rd Commencement Exercises of UP Mindanao Official Statement on the Postponement of the 23rd Commencement Exercises of UP Mindanao July 28, 2020 | Posted by UP Media and Public Relations Office For the last twenty-five years, the University of the Philippines Mindanao has made it its mission to mold learners into leaders. And every year, it is with great pride that we send off our graduates in their sablay during the commencement exercises so they can find their place in the world guided by “Honor and Excellence.” However, the declaration of a national health emergency due to COVID-19 has disrupted our operations. In response, UP decided to cut short the previous semester and give students the option to defer complying with the adjusted course requirements until next year. We wanted to celebrate the achievements of this year’s graduates through a virtual graduation. But, the rising number of positive cases in the city, affecting even Brgy. Mintal, has slowed down production work for the said virtual event originally planned for streaming on July 30. With this in mind, the University has decided to postpone holding the 23rd Commencement Exercises for next year. We understand that some might feel disappointed, but we ask for your kind understanding as we prioritize the health and wellbeing of all our constituents. Note that the names of the graduating students who have completed their requirements in June 2020 were endorsed by the University Council to the UP Board of Regents for final approval of graduation as of 2nd Semester AY 2019-2020. To the Class of 2020: Congratulations! See you next year! Sabay-sabay sumablay sa 2021! |
https://up.edu.ph/the-challenge-of-rehabilitation-for-covid-survivors-in-up-stop-covid-deaths-webinar/ | The challenge of rehabilitation for COVID survivors in UP “STOP COVID DEATHS” webinar – University of the Philippines | The challenge of rehabilitation for COVID survivors in UP “STOP COVID DEATHS” webinar The challenge of rehabilitation for COVID survivors in UP “STOP COVID DEATHS” webinar June 30, 2020 | Posted by UP Media and Public Relations Office Out of the over 36,000 cases of COVID-19 in the country as of the latest count, almost 10,000 have recovered. But for many of the patients who manage to survive severe COVID-19, rehabilitation is only the next stage of the fight. COVID-19 patients who were placed in intensive care units may have rehabilitation needs related to the effects of intubation and ventilation as well as prolonged immobilization and isolation from loved ones. Some of these effects include impaired lung function, physical deconditioning and weakness, difficulty in swallowing and speaking, mental health issues like depression, delirium and cognitive impairment, and the need for continuing psychosocial support. Those with other underlying diseases or older persons may have greater needs. Rehabilitation plays a critical role in early discharge and in preventing relapse and readmission. Rehabilitation services for survivors need to be a part of pandemic preparedness and planning as care for the patients does not end upon discharge from the hospital. The University of the Philippines in partnership with Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) and the UP Manila NIH National Telehealth Center is presenting the 11th installment of the webinar series “STOP COVID DEATHS: Clinical Management Updates” this Friday, July 3, at 12 n.n., focusing on “Rehabilitation for Critical Care Survivors of COVID-19”. Dr. Celso F. Bate, physiatrist at The Medical City and VRP Medical Center, will be discussing interventions based on frontline practice, as well as options for the continuation of rehabilitation through inpatient, outpatient, home-based or telehealth services. The UP “STOP COVID DEATHS: Clinical Management Updates” is held every Friday from 12 noon to 2 p.m. Registration slots are limited, so sign up now: bit.ly/StopCOVIDDeathsWebinar11. |
https://up.edu.ph/new-up-stop-covid-deaths-webinar-to-focus-on-the-doctor-as-covid-19-patient/ | New UP Stop COVID Deaths webinar to focus on the doctor as COVID-19 patient – University of the Philippines | New UP Stop COVID Deaths webinar to focus on the doctor as COVID-19 patient New UP Stop COVID Deaths webinar to focus on the doctor as COVID-19 patient July 30, 2020 | Posted by UP Media and Public Relations Office By now it is common knowledge that among the very first COVID-19 deaths in the Philippines were doctors. Estimates from April 2020 indicate that 22 doctors had already died from the disease. Last March 15, a 69-year old male with a history of hypertension, diabetes, dyslipidemia, and obstructive sleep apnea made his way to the emergency room. He was experiencing fever and myalgia and expressed concerns about possible exposure to COVID-19 at a conference held earlier that month in Clark City. Nasal and throat swabs were taken for SARS-Cov-2 (what we commonly now know as COVID-19), in addition to a CBC and a chest X-ray, both of which came out normal. The bad news came the next day–our patient’s swab tests tested positive and he was immediately admitted. The patient noticed himself feeling out of breath, a condition known as ‘exertional dsypnea’, and his symptoms worsened to the point where the medical staff had to reach a decision whether or not to intubate him and supply oxygen through a mechanical ventilator. This snippet might fit the profile and experience of a typical at-risk patient for COVID-19, except that the patient in question was renowned cardiologist Dr. Rody Sy. In this case, Dr. Sy was a patient that understood his dire situation and the pivotal decisions made on his behalf that could spell the difference between life and death. The experiences and tragedies that befell the country’s medical professionals have provided the silver lining of being very instructive to those in the medical community like Dr. Sy, who can make interventions to prevent them. Why were doctors getting infected? Why were they not getting better? And what strategies would work best to aid one’s survival from a severe COVID-19 infection? In this episode of Virtual Grand Rounds of the University of the Philippines-Philippine Health Insurance Corporation Webinar Series on STOP COVID DEATHS, titled ‘The Doctor as Patient: The Journey of Dr. Rody Sy’.we will join him in taking a closer look at the therapeutic and diagnostic dilemmas during the early stages of COVID-19 in the Philippines, what we have learned since then, and how we can better understand the perspective of the patient, physically, emotionally, and spiritually. The very first UP-PhilHealth “STOP COVID DEATHS: VIRTUAL GRAND ROUNDS” will be held on July 31, 2020 (Friday) 12nn. Register here: bit.ly/StopCOVIDDeathsWebinar15. |
https://up.edu.ph/mensahe-para-sa-mga-magsisipagtapos-2020/ | Mensahe para sa mga Magsisipagtapos 2020 – University of the Philippines | Mensahe para sa mga Magsisipagtapos 2020 Mensahe para sa mga Magsisipagtapos 2020 September 7, 2020 | Posted by UP Media and Public Relations Office Video at edit ng TVUP Binabati ko kayo, mga mahal kong iskolar ng bayan, sa inyong pagtatapos mula sa UP Nating Mahal. Kayo ay nabibilang sa katangi-tanging Batch 2020. Natatangi sapagkat kayo ay nagsipagtapos sa panahon ng isang pandemya. Na kahit pa napaikli ng pandemyang ito ang inyong paglagi at pag-aaral sa loob ng ating pamantasan ay buong husay at tapang ninyong hinarap ang lahat ng hamon ng pagkakataon at matagumpay kayong nakaraos sa mga kursong inyo ngayong tinapos. Totoo nga na kakaiba ang mga seremonya ng pagtatapos sa ating bansa ngayon. Subalit hindi man ninyo naranasan ang mga kaabang-abang na tradisyon tulad ng pagsusuot ng ating Sablay, paggawad ng mga titulo at karangalan, paglahok sa mga lightning rally, at iba pa, kayo naman ay mga tunay pa rin na mga gradweyt at ngayon ay alumni na ng UP. Taos-puso pa rin nating ipinagdiriwang ang okasyong ito, gaya ng mga nagdaang araw ng pagtatapos, at pinasasalamatan natin ang lahat ng ating mga nakasama sa makabuluhang paglalakbay na ito. Sa mga nakalipas na buwan, natutunan natin kung paano harapin ang isang kakaibang sitwasyon sa kasaysayan ng ating daigdig at lipunan, ang pagharap sa sakit na COVID-19. Bagamat hindi pa lubos na natatapos ang mga panganib na sanhi ng nasabing sakit, ating tandaan na hindi biro ang paghubog, pagsasanay at paghahandang ibinahagi sa inyo ng UP upang mapagtagumpayan ninyong sama-sama ang anumang hamong inyong kakaharapin. Ating tandaan na ang panahon ng krisis ay hindi lamang isang masamang panaginip. Ito rin ay isang mabuting pagkakataon upang tayo ay lalong magpunyagi, magpakahusay at makapaglingkod sa bayan. Isabuhay natin ang diwa ng UP, ang pagkakaisa, ang paglilingkod nang buong husay at dangal, at patunayan natin na walang hangganan ang pagaambag ng ating Unibersidad at ng kanyang mga alumni sa paghahanap at paglalapat ng mga epektibong alternatibo at solusyon sa anumang suliranin. Sa tulong ng inyong mga propesor, kamag-aral, kasama sa kolehiyo at mga organisasyong kinabibilangan, naibigay ng UP ang lahat ng aralin at kasanayan, sa loob ng higit na maikling panahon at sa pamamagitan ng kakaibang pamamaraan ng pagtuturo. Dapat nating mapagtanto na ang tunay at higit na makabuluhang larangan ng pagkatuto ay nasa labas ng ating pamantasan. Kayo, ang Batch 2020, ang unang henerasyon ng mga nagsipagtapos na iskolar ng bayan sa panahon ng pandemyang COVID-19. Inaasahan kong kayo ay mangunguna sa pagbabangon sa ating bayan mula sa lusak ng trahedyang ito. Gamitin sana ninyo nang wasto ang karunungang Tatak UP. Buong giting at husay nawa ninyong gampanan ang pagiging mabuting Pilipino, na may utak at puso para sa kapwa at para sa bayan. Muli, binabati ko kayo sa makasaysayan at makabuluhang okasyong ito. Gabayan nawa kayo ng Poong Maykapal. Danilo L. Concepcion Pangulo Unibersidad ng Pilipinas |
https://up.edu.ph/up-online-grand-rounds-to-focus-on-covid-19s-impact-on-the-gastrointestinal-tract/ | UP online grand rounds to focus on COVID-19’s impact on the gastrointestinal tract – University of the Philippines | UP online grand rounds to focus on COVID-19’s impact on the gastrointestinal tract UP online grand rounds to focus on COVID-19’s impact on the gastrointestinal tract September 10, 2020 | Posted by UP Media and Public Relations Office While COVID-19 is well-known for its impact on the respiratory system, research has shown that SARS-CoV-2 can also harm the gastrointestinal tract. The 21st installment in the UP webinar series “STOP COVID DEATHS: VIRTUAL GRAND ROUNDS” will focus on one such case: a patient with a history of Crohn’s disease who showed symptoms of gastric distress and partial gut obstruction but whose diagnosis was delayed, and who is also suspected to be COVID-positive. The webinar, “Barado at Sarado: Gut Obstruction During the Time COVID-19?”, will be held on Friday, September 11, 2020, at 12:00 n.n. Dr. Brent Viray, Senior Resident at the UP Philippine General Hospital’s (UP PGH) Department of Surgery, will be presenter for this particular case, while Dr. Hermogenes Monroy, Chief of the Division of Colorectal Surgery, UP PGH Department of Surgery will be the discussant. Dr. Orlando Ocampo, Head of the PGH COVID Response Task Force and Chief of the Trauma Division of the UP PGH, and Ms. Cecilia G. Peña, Deputy Director for Nursing of the UP PGH, will be the reactors. Grand rounds are an integral part of traditional medical education and inpatient care wherein doctors, pharmacist, residents and medical students gather to discuss the particular medical problems and the treatment of a particular patient. The webinar series “STOP COVID DEATHS: VIRTUAL GRAND ROUNDS” are the very first online medicine grand rounds in the Philippines. The series is organized by the University of the Philippinesin partnership with the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) and the UP Manila NIH National Telehealth Center, in cooperation with the UP Manila College of Medicine and the UP PGH. Register now at bit.ly/StopCOVIDDeathsWebinar21. |
https://up.edu.ph/six-upcmc-alumni-named-2020-glory-awardees/ | Six UPCMC alumni named 2020 Glory awardees – University of the Philippines | Six UPCMC alumni named 2020 Glory awardees Six UPCMC alumni named 2020 Glory awardees October 7, 2020 | Written by Oscar Gomez Two journalists, an arts community advocate, a development communicator, an education innovator, and a producer-writer of hit television shows are this year’s six outstanding alumni of the University of the Philippines College of Mass Communication (UPCMC) who will receive the coveted Glory award. The “Glory” honors UPCMC alumni who did not only produce excellent work consistently but also made an impact in mass communication and society. Selected by a jury of their peers, the 2020 Glory awardees are Karen Davila (broadcast journalism), Dr. Rey de la Cruz (special education), Deo Endrinal (television arts), Dr. Monina Movido-Escalada (development communication), Lutgardo Labad (arts & culture advocacy), and Criselda Yabes (literary journalism). UPCMC Alumni Association president Malou Choa Fagar announced that due to the continuing public health crisis, the Glory awards presentation on November 14 will take place in a virtual environment. The Glory Awards were inspired by the legacy of honor and excellence of Dr. Gloria Feliciano, the founding dean of UP mass communication programs, who served from 1965 to 1985. UPCMC produced some of the best practitioners in broadcasting, film, journalism, and communication research in the past 55 years. Many alumni also shone in allied fields like marketing communication, social advocacy, public relations, and the performing arts. The seven distinguished jurors of the 2020 Glory Awards were UPCMC dean and film professor Dr. Arminda Santiago; UPCMC communication research department chairperson Dr. Julienne Thesa Baldo-Cubelo; PR expert and former UP vice president for public affairs Tessa Jazmines; broadcast news veteran Jose “Jing” Magsaysay, who also represents the family of Dean Feliciano; writer-director and 2019 Glory awardee Floy Quintos; noted film and TV director, writer and educator Jose Javier Reyes; and 2018 Glory awardee Luz Rimban, executive director of the Asian Center for Journalism at the Ateneo de Manila University. THE 2020 AWARDEES Broadcast journalist Karen Davila is a veteran news anchor and correspondent of ABS-CBN. Her long-running daily Q&A show Headstart on ANC puts newsmakers on the proverbial hot seat to illuminate current and controversial issues. Davila began her career as a writer-presenter of documentaries for The Probe Team and was part of the ABS-CBN investigative journalism series The Correspondents. She also moderated presidential debates and the televised sessions of the World Economic Forum-East Asia Summit. She bagged international prizes for her in-depth reporting about children and street drugs, children in jail, and the Marcopper Mining environmental disaster. Davila also won the TOYM (The Outstanding Young Men) and TOWNS (The Outstanding Women in the Nation’s Service) awards and was the Rotary Club of Manila’s Journalist of the Year in 2004. Recently her popular program about successful micro and small entrepreneurs, My Puhunan, was cancelled as a result of the non-renewal of ABS-CBN’s congressional franchise. Nonetheless she is continuing to present inspirational stories of hope and resilience (particularly during the pandemic) on her own social media pages. Author and special education expert Rey de la Cruz is also a Palanca award-winning playwright, pioneering alternative filmmaker, gender-equality advocate, and developer of innovative teaching strategies. Peer-reviewed journals and conferences recognized his research showing the effects of creative drama on social and oral-language skills of children with learning disabilities. Drawing from his versatile range of disciplines, De la Cruz originated and disseminated the classroom use of the ancient Philippine board game sungka in teaching social and math skills engagingly, for which he received a diversity award from the Illinois Council for Exceptional Children-Division for Culturally and Linguistically Diverse Exceptional Learners. He was an adjunct professor in Chicago State University where he taught special-education courses to undergraduate and graduate students. In recognition of his exemplary achievement in the education field, the Illinois State University College of Education inducted him into its Alumni Hall of Fame. As head of ABS-CBN’s content production unit Dreamscape Entertainment, Deo Endrinal is one of television’s top ”showrunners” who has overall creative authority and management responsibility for TV shows. He started as a writer and producer for GMA Network (Martin After Dark and Lunch Date), TV5 (Pops) and ABS-CBN, his home network for the past three decades. Some of the most successful ABS-CBN programs from the 1990s up to the present bear his imprint—from Showbiz Lingo, The Buzz, Today with Kris, Game Ka Na Ba?, Mula Sa Puso, ASAP and recent hits May Bukas Pa, Tayong Dalawa, Walang Hanggan, On The Wings of Love, Kadenang Ginto, The General’s Daughter, and Ang Probinsyano. Since 2018 Endrinal has been producing movies for the digital platform iWant such as Glorious, Bagman, Call Me Tita, and the recent Love Lockdown, which experimented on new ways of filming in a pandemic. He orchestrated the movie’s efficient production under strict physical distancing protocols. The denial of ABS-CBN’s franchise pushed the network to find a new home on Youtube and Facebook, where Endrinal helped Kapamilya Online Live garner millions of subscribers in record time and where he continues to introduce new content. Monina Movido-Escalada is an internationally acclaimed development communicator and a professor emeritus at the Visayas State University in Baybay, Leyte. She rose from a research assistant to assistant professor of broadcast communication in UP Diliman in the 1970s. In the past three decades, her research pursued a deeper and better understanding of farmers’ management and decision-making practices. The findings enabled her to develop learning strategies that include entertainment-education approaches using radio soap operas, for example. Her research design, monitoring, evaluation and scaling up initiatives resulted in favorable behavior change in the way farmers manage their resources. Escalada has been honored by the World Bank, the Consultative Group on International Agricultural Research, the UN Environmental Program, and the governments of Vietnam and Japan for her agricultural innovations. She also won the St. Andrews Prize for Environment, the United Kingdom’s only international prize for environmental achievement. Lutgardo Labad has stood at the vanguard of Philippine arts and culture advocacy for almost half a century. He is a multi-awarded theater artist, teacher, cultural worker, and arts & heritage promoter. Labad was instrumental in developing the creative arts and theatre curriculum of the Philippine Educational Theater Association. As PETA’s pedagogy and artistic director for 25 years, he conducted workshops for disadvantaged provincial communities, the urban poor, and the indigenous peoples of Mindanao.“Gardy” is probably best known as a musical scorer. He has worked on 85 films, winning nine awards for scoring the cinema classics of National Artists Lino Brocka, Eddie Romero and UPCMC distinguished alumnus Maryo de los Reyes such as Tinimbang Ka Ngunit Kulang (1974), Ganito Kami Noon, Paano Kayo Ngayon? (1976) Pakawalan Mo Ako (1982), Bilangin Ang Mga Bituin sa Langit (1990), Magnifico (2004), and Naglalayag (2004). After resettling in his home province of Bohol in 1994, Gardy organized community theater groups across the Visayas to make them integral to sustainable development thrusts, especially in ecological and cultural tourism. He received the Galing Pook award for best local government unit cultural program and was honored by Philstage with a lifetime achievement award in theater in2019. He used to chair the dramatic arts committee of the National Commission for Culture and the Arts. He is also the international staging director and impresario of the world-famous Loboc Children’s Choir. Criselda Yabes is a veteran freelance journalist and award-winning author of 10 books. Her long-form journalism written in engaging literary style has been the trademark of her craft, just like how she immerses herself for lengthy periods in her subjects and locales. Yabes released her newest book last August 31 (National Heroes Day) entitled The Battle of Marawi, her gripping account of the five-month urban warfare between Philippine government forces and radical Islamist rebels in 2017. She began her journalism career reporting on the restored democracy, restive military, and raging insurgencies of the 1980s. That period inspired her first book, The Boys from the Barracks: The Philippine Military after EDSA, in which she traced the history of dissent within the military through intimate portraits of the soldiers who took part in several uprisings. Yabes remarkably won the top writing laurels in two different categories of the UP Centennial Literary Prize in 2008—one for her creative non-fiction book, Sarena’s Story: The Loss of a Kingdom, about the fall of the Sulu Sultanate, and another for a book under fiction, Below the Crying Mountain, a weave of love stories set against the backdrop of the Moro rebellion that broke out in the 1970s. “Below the Crying Mountain” was the only Filipino-written novel nominated for the prestigious Man Asian Literary Prize in 2010. It was re-published by Penguin Books Southeast Asia in 2019. |
https://up.edu.ph/up-pgh-hotline-155-200/ | UP-PGH HOTLINE 155-200 – University of the Philippines | UP-PGH HOTLINE 155-200 UP-PGH HOTLINE 155-200 April 22, 2020 | Posted by UP Media and Public Relations Office TUMAWAG sa 155-200 para sa mga katanungan at pag-aalala ukol sa COVID-19 at iba pang karamdaman. May ubo at lagnat ako, meron na ba akong COVID-19? Masakit ang lalamunan ko at mabigat ang pakiramdam, ano ang gagawin? Nahihilo, mataas ang BP, may diarrhea at gastrointestinal bleeding, saan ako pupunta? Mayroong may COVID-19 sa barangay/hospital namin. Mahahawa ba kami? Tingin ko ako ay COVID+, ano ang aming gagawin at saan kami pupunta? May medical emergency kami, sa PGH ba ang punta namin? May frontliner sa lugar namin. Dapat ba mag-alala kami? Gusto kong mag-donate ng pagkain at kagamitan. Sino ang tatawagan ko? Bukas po 24/7 para sa mga katanungan ukol sa COVID-19 at iba pang karamdaman, paano mag-boluntir, at mag-donate. Ang HOTLINE ay toll-free sa Pilipinas. |
https://up.edu.ph/up-confers-honorary-degree-on-former-university-president-alfredo-e-pascual/ | UP confers honorary degree on former University President Alfredo E. Pascual – University of the Philippines | UP confers honorary degree on former University President Alfredo E. Pascual UP confers honorary degree on former University President Alfredo E. Pascual September 7, 2020 | Written by Celeste Ann Castillo Llaneta Former UP President Alfredo Pascual addressing the UP Manila Class of 2020. Screenshot from the livestream of the UP Manila commencement exercises. Former UP President and a business leader, Alfredo E. Pascual, was awarded the honorary Doctor of Laws at the University of the Philippines Manila’s first virtual 111th Commencement Exercises, which was held on Sunday, September 6, 2020, at 10:00 a.m., with replay available on the UP Manila Commencement YouTube channel. Mr. Pascual congratulated the more than 800 members of UP Manila Class of 2020 on their historic achievement, as well as the faculty, staff and administrators of UP Manila for their quick and decisive actions to help the country battle the COVID-19 pandemic. He noted that, even before the pandemic, the rapid technological changes brought about by the Fourth Industrial Revolution, or FIRe for short, have brought about disruptions in society, work and labor, and the economy at an unprecedented scale, scope and speed. “We now live in a VUCA world, meaning volatile, uncertain, complex, and ambiguous. This kind of environment is a challenge for many but you, our young graduates can cope. I know you can. You have time on your side, and ability to adapt yourselves to the emerging changes. More importantly, you have the opportunity to become active players in rebuilding our country post-COVID,” he said. He also compared the UP sablay to the fabric of Filipino society, woven from people’s aspirations, struggles and victories. He exhorted the UP graduates to live a life of service to the country by taking on leadership roles in their chosen fields and weaving meaningful change and transformation. To become good leaders, he added, UP graduates must have humility, integrity, courage, agility, and resilience. Former UP President Alfredo Pascual exhorts the new graduates to live a life of service by becoming good leaders. Screenshot from the livestream of the UP Manila commencement exercises. “As I have said before, we from UP must succeed not because we have a reputation to keep but because we have a country to serve,” he finished with the words were his well-known call during his administration as UP President. Mr. Pascual served as the 20th president of the University of the Philippines from 2011-2017, distinguishing his term with a range of impactful initiatives and reforms that earned him a special citation from the Board of Regents. His strategic vision of ONE UP unified the UP System with its eight constituent universities (CUs) across 17 campuses nationwide. Former UP President Alfredo E. Pascual being awarded an honorary Doctor of Laws degree at UP Manila’s very first virtual 111th Commencement Exercises, with current UP President Danilo L. Concepcion (left) looking on. Screenshot from the livestream of the UP Manila commencement exercises. Facilities and infrastructure were significantly improved with the addition of over 100 new buildings and structures, plus 50 major renovations in various campuses. Investments also went to modernizing equipment in the UP Manila-Philippine General Hospital, the Philippine Genome Center, and the UP Manila-National Institutes of Health building. Funds were also allocated for the rehabilitation of facilities for the performing arts and creative works in different campuses. He also sought to internationalize the University, subjecting its systems and curricular programs to international evaluations. By the end of his term, UP entered the Times Higher Education list as one of the top research universities in Asia. The University has since continued to rise in this and other global rankings of educational institutions. His administration’s focus on serving the country has meant enhanced public service capabilities through a University public service office, the internet-based TVUP, and the UP Resilience Institute. His Green UP movement has resulted in improved environmental sustainability. UP President Danilo Concepcion presenting former UP President Alfredo Pascual with his third degree from UP. Screenshot from the livestream of the UP Manila commencement exercises. Mr. Pascual earned his BS Chemistry degree, cum laude, and his MBA in UP. He has since worked as an international development banker, corporate governance advocate and management educator. He is currently involved with the Technical Advisory Group on Climate Change and the Environment in the Western Pacific Region of the World Health Organization, and with the Armed Forces of the Philippines Multi-Sector Governance Council, to name a few. He is also an Independent Director of Concepcion Industrial Corporation. Mr. Pascual received the honorary degree from the UP Board of Regents upon the recommendation of the President of UP and Committee on Honorary Degrees. |
https://up.edu.ph/up-webinar-to-tackle-covid-19-and-its-impact-on-the-philippine-healthcare-system/ | UP webinar to tackle COVID-19 and its impact on the Philippine healthcare system – University of the Philippines | UP webinar to tackle COVID-19 and its impact on the Philippine healthcare system UP webinar to tackle COVID-19 and its impact on the Philippine healthcare system May 4, 2021 | Posted by UP Media and Public Relations Office The recent surge of COVID-19 cases in the National Capital Region and contiguous areas has had profound effects on our health care systems. Hospitals are barely able to accommodate COVID and non-COVID patients. Local government units are unable to keep up with the pace of testing and contact tracing needed, and communities that are going hungry with the extended quarantines. In this episode of the University of the Philippines’ (UP) “Stop COVID Deaths” webinar series, the UP Philippine General Hospital (UP-PGH) shares its lessons learned from a surge in early March 2021 that shut down certain parts of the hospital. The webinar will include a discussion on the important role that genetic sequencing has played in affirming and prioritizing contact tracing, isolation, and education of individuals who may have been exposed to patients who contracted any of the new variants. The role of telemedicine in decongesting the crowded hospitals of Metro Manila is presented. The 51st installment in the webinar series, which recently marked its first-year anniversary, is titled “SOS: Save Our Systems from the COVID-19 Surge”. It will be held on Friday, May 7, 2021, at 12:00 noon. Dr. Nina Berba, head of infectious disease control at the UP-PGH, will be the main presenter. Reactors are Dr. Gerardo Legaspi, UP-PGH Director; Dr. Eva Cutiongco de la Paz, UP Manila National Institutes of Health Executive Director; Dr. Raymond Sarmiento, Director of the UP Manila National TeleHealth Center, National Institutes of Health; and, Dr. Sito Nunez, Chief of East Avenue Memorial Medical Center. Register for this special edition of the “Stop COVID Deaths” webinar series here: bit.ly/StopCOVIDDeathsWebinar51 |
https://up.edu.ph/the-philippines-vaccine-questions-to-be-answered-in-up-webinar/ | The Philippines’ vaccine questions to be answered in UP webinar – University of the Philippines | The Philippines’ vaccine questions to be answered in UP webinar The Philippines’ vaccine questions to be answered in UP webinar December 9, 2020 | Written by Celeste Ann Castillo Llaneta There have been rapid developments in the race for a vaccine for COVID-19 of late. Currently, there are more than 100 COVID-19 vaccines in development around the world, with three to four vaccines ahead and positioned for limited use in certain countries that have manufacturing capacity. In the Philippines, questions have arisen stemming from the latest news on COVID-19 vaccines. Will we would have access to leading vaccines that would be used in the US and the UK? What is the mechanism for making sure that all countries will have access to the vaccines? Will the leading vaccines end the pandemic? Is the Philippines prepared to deploy a vaccine against COVID-19? What are the logistical requirements for vaccination against COVID-19, and what is the game plan? The 34th installment of the University of the Philippines’ (UP) “STOP COVID DEATHS” webinar series is another special edition, this time focusing on “Updates on Vaccination Against COVID-19”. It will be held on December 11, 2020, Friday, at 12:00 noon. Invited to discuss vaccine development, clinical trials and the Philippine roadmap for vaccination against COVID-19 are: Dr. Nina Gloriani, lead expert in the Vaccine Expert Panel and former Dean of the UP College of Public Health; and Dr. Jodor Lim, lead expert in the Clinical Trials for Vaccines, and a member of the Division of Infectious Diseases of the UP Philippine General Hospital (PGH). Sec. Carlito Galvez, Jr., chair of the COVID-19 National Incident Command and the Vaccine Czar, is the reactor. Dr. Eva Cutiongco Dela Paz, Executive Director of the UP Manila National Institutes of Health, will be delivering the opening remarks, while Dr. Charlotte Chiong, Dean of the UP College of Medicine, will give the closing remarks. The UP “STOP COVID DEATHS” webinar series is organized by UP in partnership with the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) and the UP Manila NIH National Telehealth Center, and in cooperation with the UP College of Medicine and the UP PGH. Registration here: bit.ly/StopCOVIDDeathsWebinar34 |
https://up.edu.ph/alumni-email-registration-launched/ | Alumni email registration launched – University of the Philippines | Alumni email registration launched Alumni email registration launched November 24, 2021 | Written by Arlyn VCD Palisoc Romualdo The University of the Philippines (UP) officially launched its alumni email registration on November 12 in a virtual ceremony titled “Let’s Konek: Taralets!” The Office of Alumni Relations, in partnership with the Information Technology Development Center, spearheads the project. Both are UP System offices. “UP has been and will always be your home. A home that is not bound by physical space but instead defined by a thought, a feeling, an experience that has transformed you forever. It is an affinity and love for an institution and its community—your community—that gives you Tatak UP.”—UP President Danilo Concepcion, addressing UP alumni. Screenshot from event livestream by Misael Bacani, UP MPRO. UP President Danilo Concepcion remarked that the long-planned @alum.up.edu.ph email provision to University alumni was finally pushing through after some delays. Addressing the alumni, he said, “Providing you with an email account bearing the initials of your alma mater is one way of showing you our gratitude and appreciation for all that you have given to UP.” Concepcion added that the gesture might be simple, but he knew it would be meaningful to UP’s hundreds of thousands of alumni. To date, there are more than 300,000 living UP alumni worldwide, and they comprise the largest group of University constituents. In her message, VP for Public Affairs Elena Pernia talked about UP alumni life stages as a guide for the University to establish and strengthen its relationship with its graduates. She explained that these consider what they might want or need from their alma mater at certain stages of their life as UP alumni and are in line with their circumstances and capacity. “It is but right that the University gifts its alumni with an exclusive and prestigious email address that shows their continuing affiliation with the University.”—VP for Public Affairs Elena Pernia. Screenshot from event livestream by Misael Bacani, UP MPRO. Those who are about to graduate may be part of a “Senior Class Gift” campaign. One to 15 years after graduation, those employed and/or have reached middle management levels in their careers may be part of what she called the “Small Gifts, Big Hearts” initiative. Alumni elevated to senior management positions, roughly 30 years or more after graduating, may give a “Leadership Gift” to UP. Those about to retire or have retired, especially with multi-generational alumni in their families, may consider donating a “Legacy Gift.” Assistant VP for Public Affairs (Alumni Relations and Events Management) Maria Angelica Abad expressed her joy at the alumni’s warm reception of the email account project. It reciprocates the University’s desire to strengthen ties. The alumni email provides news and updates as well as open opportunities for donations and volunteerism. More than that, it is a way for alumni to reach out to UP because, as Abad told them, “We also want to hear from you.” “The UP alumni email marks you as a proud Iskolar ng Bayan. It is your umbilical cord to this institution.” AVP Maria Angelica Abad to UP alumni. Screenshot from event livestream by Misael Bacani, UP MPRO. She enjoined alumni to register for their email accounts and reminded alumni who were previously issued student email accounts that those will be disabled months after graduation with due notice. As a consultant to the UP President on alumni matters, UP alumna and recently retired Corporate Affairs Field Manager of Chevron Corporation Marian Catedral-King also shared her thoughts on building the relationship between universities and their graduates. She said that she had not cared that UP did not reach out to her for ten years after she graduated. After all, it was very early in her career, and the thought of giving back, while it crossed her mind, was not something she could pursue just yet. “Finally, your Isko and Iska can be brought home again.” UP alumna Marian Catedral-King on establishing the UP alumni email account as a way to reach out to alumni. Screenshot from event livestream by Misael Bacani, UP MPRO. Another 20 years later, she revealed that she did care a bit about the absence of communication from UP because she was already “in a better position to give back.” And she did. She said other organizations that reached out to her made their needs known to her and were accessible. “But, no, I never gave to UP.” In the United States, Catedral-King was struck by the loyalty and attachment of her colleagues to their universities. She learned that their “touch points” with their alma maters were “regular and consistent,” which she never had with UP, which is why the UP alumni email account is a significant step toward strengthening these touchpoints. “No UP graduate should be left behind,” she said. This project shows that “the Iskolar ng Bayan is needed, wanted, and loved.” “The UP alumni email account is much like long-lost or distant children being reunited with their forlorn mother.” Alumni Regent Reynaldo Laserna. Screenshot from event livestream by Misael Bacani, UP MPRO. Closing off the formal launch of the UP alumni email registration, UP Alumni Regent and UP Alumni Association President Reynaldo Laserna said that the email account is a highly appreciated gesture from UP as it “uniquely and instantly identifies the email sender as an alumnus [or alumna].” He added that the “great prestige and pride that come with it [is something] all UP alumni, without exception, hold most dear in their hearts.” AVP Jose Wendell Capili hosted the official launch of the UP alumni email registration. Screenshot from event livestream by Misael Bacani, UP MPRO The event featured a recorded performance by Soprano and UP alumna Ma. Cristina Viguilla-Navarro accompanied by the Filipino American Symphony Orchestra (FASO). UP alumnus Robert Schroder is the founder and conductor of FASO. Screenshot from event livestream by Misael Bacani, UP MPRO To register for the UP alumni email account, go to https://alum.up.edu.ph/database/. Only applications from bonafide and verified alumni will be processed. You may also learn how to apply for your UP Alumni Email by watching this animated video explainer. Screenshot of the UP alumni email registration website Watch the livestream of the launch on the UP System’s FB page or TVUP’s Youtube channel. |
https://up.edu.ph/call-for-donations-personal-protective-equipment-for-philippine-genome-center/ | Call for Donations: Personal Protective Equipment for Philippine Genome Center – University of the Philippines | Call for Donations: Personal Protective Equipment for Philippine Genome Center Call for Donations: Personal Protective Equipment for Philippine Genome Center March 16, 2020 | Posted by UP Media and Public Relations Office To Those Asking on How they Can Help in the COVID-19 National Health Emergency: The Philippine Genome Center (PGC) laboratories of the University of the Philippines are tasked to handle the sequencing of COVID-19 samples for the next two (2) weeks, in coordination with the health workers from UP Manila National Institutes of Health, to provide our scientists with crucial scientific information to mitigate the spread of the disease. In our effort to continually protect the PGC skeletal work force during this national health emergency, we will accept PPE donations, such as N95 masks, surgical masks, disposable impermeable laboratory gowns and caps, face shields, and shoe covers to replenish our supplies. You may drop off your donations from Monday to Friday at 8am to 5pm at the lobby of the PGC Building located at A. Ma. Regidor St., National Science Complex, UP Diliman Campus, Quezon City. You may also contact Mr. Carlo Lapid at 89818500 local 4706 or Mobile No. 09178458581. |
https://up.edu.ph/upaasf-and-apl-de-ap-foundation-international-donate-collection-kits-for-covid-19-testing/ | UPAASF and Apl.de.Ap Foundation International donate collection kits for COVID-19 testing – University of the Philippines | UPAASF and Apl.de.Ap Foundation International donate collection kits for COVID-19 testing UPAASF and Apl.de.Ap Foundation International donate collection kits for COVID-19 testing December 22, 2021 | Written by Arlyn VCD Palisoc Romualdo During the press conference held for the turnover of COVID-19 testing kits, valued at $2.85 million, from the UPAA of San Francisco and the Apl.de.Ap Foundation International to the UP Philippine General Hospital. From left to right: UP alumnus and entrepreneur Yobie Benjamin; UPAASF past president and Apl.de.ap Foundation International Director Sonia Delen; Grammy Award-winning rap artist and founding member of Black Eyed Peas, Apl.de.Ap; UP President Danilo L. Concepcion; and UPAA of San Francisco President Liza Gino. Screenshot from the video taken by Rey Photomo. University of the Philippines (UP) alumnus and entrepreneur, Yobie Benjamin, with the assistance of Zymo Research Corp. founder and CEO, Dr. Larry Jia, and in partnership with Apl.de.Ap Foundation International (ADAFI) and the UP Alumni Association of San Francisco, Inc. (UPAASF), donated 227,722 Zymo Research DNA/RNA Shield™ Saliva Collection Kits to the UP-Philippine General Hospital (UP-PGH). The UPAASF also acknowledged the support of the Philippine Consulate General in San Francisco. UP President Danilo Concepcion accepted the gift on the University’s behalf on December 10 in California, USA. The donation worth US$2.85 million will be used mainly for the testing of UP students in preparation for their eventual return, albeit limited, to in-person instruction and practical academic work in laboratories and related facilities. Later in the evening, during the holiday celebration dinner, plaques of appreciation are presented to the donors—screenshot from the video taken of the event by Rey Photomo. In one of the preliminary discussions about the donation, UP-PGH Director, Dr. Gerardo Legaspi, welcomed the initiative as saliva collection is less invasive than nasopharyngeal and oropharyngeal swabbing, especially during circumstances where sample collections are needed regularly and frequently. Apart from being compatible with the RT-PCR testing protocols of UP-PGH, the collection kits are ideal for the Philippine climate, as they do not require refrigeration. According to UPAASF’s immediate past president and ADAFI board director Sonia Delen, “preparations are underway to transport these 9 tons of collection kits, to arrive by January 2022.” The ceremonial turnover of the donation was the highlight of UPAASF’s holiday celebration, which included a reunion dinner, the oath-taking of its new officers, and the presentation of plaques of appreciation to Zymo Research Corporation and ADAFI, and achievement awards to Benjamin and UPAASF. Apl.de.Ap received the citation on behalf of his foundation; Benjamin, on behalf of Jia and Zymo Research Corp.; and UPAASF President Liza Gino on behalf of the alumni organization. Philippine Consul General in San Francisco and UP alumnus Neil Frank Ferrer graced the event. He described the donation as a “timely gift, not only to UP-PGH but also to the Filipino people.” He added that it will help UP’s medical professionals and students “continue to take a brave and effective stand in the front lines of this global pandemic.” In her message, Gino said the kits “represent hope and creating opportunities.” She also asked her fellow alumni to perform “small acts of kindness that can easily bloom into something incredible when we do things together.” Concepcion, meanwhile, assured UPAASF that the University would not succumb to the challenges of the pandemic. Instead, UP will continue developing professionals and experts to help the Filipino people recover and allow the Filipino nation to emerge from this crisis. |
https://up.edu.ph/covid-19-crisis-management-practical-experiences-from-asia-pacific/ | Webinar on COVID-19 crisis management: practical experiences from Asia-Pacific – University of the Philippines | Webinar on COVID-19 crisis management: practical experiences from Asia-Pacific Webinar on COVID-19 crisis management: practical experiences from Asia-Pacific April 16, 2020 | Posted by UP Media and Public Relations Office The COVID-19 pandemic debuted in Asia—but so have early indications of containment, new protocols, and the resumption of economic activity. Even though, the risk of another outbreak remains, economic-activity indicators in China indicate that urban activities are returning to pre-outbreak levels. Asia is home to 60 percent of the world’s population—and to around 35 percent of the world’s poorest people. Asia’s emerging areas face unprecedented risks. However, Asia has come through crises before and emerged stronger from them, by applying the key lessons learned from their past experiences. In light of the COVID-19 pandemic, this webinar on Thursday, 16 April 2020, 16:00 (Manila time), will bring together experts from Shanghai, Jeju, Manila and Newcastle to share their views on the crisis from various perspectives on public health policy, economic impact, cybersecurity threats, and communication management and aims to address the most important questions pertaining to these topics. Particularly, experts from CIFAL’s Asia-Pacific network, including University of the Philippines-International Training Centre for Authorities and Leaders (CIFAL) Philippines Director Edna Co, will serve as panelists to discuss the different public policies being implemented in the crisis management of the COVID-19 pandemic. The event is organized by the United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR). Click here to register. |
https://up.edu.ph/up-signs-mou-with-russian-university-via-zoom/ | UP signs MOU with Russian university via Zoom – University of the Philippines | UP signs MOU with Russian university via Zoom UP signs MOU with Russian university via Zoom October 27, 2022 | Written by Fred Dabu UP President Danilo L. Concepcion (sitting) and the contingent from UP. Photo by Bong Arboleda (UP MPRO) With shared goals of building stronger relations and exploring more areas of cooperation for both Filipino and Russian scholars, University of the Philippines (UP) President Danilo L. Concepcion signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Acting Vice President for International Relations Evgeny E. Vlasov of the Far Eastern Federal University (FEFU) on 21 October 2022 via the Zoom communications platform. The MOU signing signals the deepening of UP and FEFU relations that were earlier formalized in 2015. The event also highlights videoconferencing as the next normal in strengthening academic partnerships among universities across the planet. The contingent from Russia’s Far Eastern Federal University (FEFU) signed the memorandum of understanding (MOU) with UP. Photo by Bong Arboleda (UP MPRO) Present during the signing ceremony with Vlasov at the FEFU campus in Vladivostok, Russia, were: Nikita S. Smirnov, Deputy Vice President for International Relations; Andrey A. Deryabin, Deputy Vice President for International Relations; Anastasia U. Gridnev, Leading Specialist, Center for International Promotion, Tourism and Protocol; Vladislav V. Moiseytsev, Specialist, Department for Analytical Support of International Activities; and, Aleksander G. Tkachev, Specialist, Center for International Promotion, Tourism and Protocol. President Danilo L. Concepcion. Photo by Kevin Roque (UP MPRO) Aside from President Concepcion, Dr. Imee Su Martinez, Assistant Vice President for Academic Affairs (Internationalization) and Director, Office of International Linkages (OIL), Dr. Noel Christian A. Moratilla, UP OIL Deputy Director, UP OIL staff members Chynna Louise Riego, Patrick Owen C. Tuaño, Ivan Kurt M. Monasterial, and Roma Niña C. Samson; and a team from the UP Media and Public Relations Office (MPRO) witnessed the virtual occasion at the UP Board of Regents Room in Quezon Hall, UP Diliman. FEFU, comprised of nine schools offering over 150 educational programs, is recognized as a global leader in science and innovation. The university is now celebrating its 123rd year. It traced its origins in 1899 when the Oriental Institute was founded. As one of the leading federal universities of Russia, FEFU is internationally recognized for earning its place among the Top 3 Round University Ranking (RUR) in Medical Science in Russia, Top 20 Best Universities in Russia, Top 100 QS BRICS University Rankings, and Top 500 QS University Rankings. It is the only Representative of Russia in the Association of Pacific Rim Universities (APRU). |
https://up.edu.ph/groundbreaking-held-for-new-home-of-islamic-scholarship-in-up/ | Groundbreaking held for new home of Islamic scholarship in UP – University of the Philippines | Groundbreaking held for new home of Islamic scholarship in UP Groundbreaking held for new home of Islamic scholarship in UP March 29, 2022 | Written by Franco Gargantiel II UP President Danilo Concepcion (6th from right) stands with UPD Institute of Islamic Center Dean Julkipli Wadi (5th from right) and other UP officials and officials of the DPWH after burying the time capsule for the soon to rise UPD IIS Complex. Photo by Abraham Arboleda (UP MPRO). March saw another milestone for the University of the Philippines (UP) Diliman campus with the groundbreaking ceremony for its newest construction project: the UP Diliman Institute of Islamic Studies (UPD IIS) Complex. The dream of a new home for UPD IIS The new, soon-to-rise UP Diliman Institute of Islamic Studies Complex, to be located along C. Arellano Street, between the UP School of Economics and the GT Toyota Asian Center, realizes a long-awaited dream of the IIS faculty, staff, REPs, and students—to have a home of their own in UP Diliman. UP Vice President for Development Elvira Zamora (left) and UPD IIS OIC-Dean Wadi (right) sign their names on the documents to be placed in the time capsule in the company of UP President Concepcion (center), UPD Chancellor Fidel Nemenzo (3rd from left), and other UP and DPWH officials. Photo by Abraham Arboleda (UP MPRO). This dream was expedited after Romulo Hall, which used to house the UPD IIS, was declared unsafe due to its deteriorating structure. As a result, the UPD IIS held classes and relocated its offices and library around several academic buildings on campus in the years that followed: the College of Social Work and Community Development (CSWCD), the School of Labor and Industrial Relations (SOLAIR), the College of Social Sciences and Philosophy (CSSP, the National College of Public Administration and Governance (NCPAG), the School of Urban and Regional Planning (SURP), and, the Institute of Small-Scale Industries (ISSI). UP Diliman Chancellor Nemenzo recounts the history of the UPD IIS. Photo by Abraham Arboleda (UP MPRO). The upcoming UPD IIS Complex will house classrooms, administrative and research offices, and the library. It will also have student and faculty lounges, a dining hall, guest rooms, a multi-purpose hall, a mini-auditorium, a museum, and a prayer room. The Complex will feature a shared area or commons called “The Muslim World Today,” where UP academics, researchers, and students can interact with Islamic Studies scholars, resource persons, and diplomats from different Muslim counties and communities. The public may also appreciate UPD IIS’s rich collection of Islamic art, history, and culture in the area. Hopefully, the new Complex may bring into new heights UP as the premier institution of higher learning engaged in the study of Islam as faith, tradition, and civilization, in line with UP’s vision of promoting excellence, honor, service, and harmony among its Muslim and non-Muslim students. Importance of scholarship on Islamic culture UP President Danilo L. Concepción, Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Acting Secretary Roger G. Mercado, UP Diliman Chancellor Fidel R. Nemenzo, and UPD IIS OIC_Dean Prof. Julkipli M. Wadi led the groundbreaking ceremony for UPD IIS’s future home on March 1, 2022. After welcoming the attendees, UPD Chancellor Nemenzo traced the origins of the UPD ISS, dating back to its foundation in 1979. “By building a new home for our Institute of Islamic Studies, we are conveying the message that it is important to have a scholarship of Islamic culture.” UP President Concepcion commends the “endurance and hard work” of the UPD IIS community despite their lack of a home of their own. Photo by Abraham Arboleda (UP MPRO). He also stressed the importance of such scholarship in shaping our country and region. “We are proud to have an Institute of Islamic studies because of the central role of Islam in the region,” he said. UP President Concepción shared how it took a decade to construct the IIS building, how it was a combination of both timing and effort on the part of everyone involved, and how this project was made possible through collaboration with the DPWH. “The UP-DPWH partnership did not only result in the Department’s commitment to better project implementation but also its generosity in funding the University’s infrastructure development,” Concepcion said. Concepcion also acknowledged the endurance and hard work that the UPD IIS community demonstrated through the years. “Alam kong hindi naging madali para sa inyo sa IIS ang kawalan ng sariling tahanan. Ngunit kahanga-hanga ang inyong pagpupunyagi sa kabila ng kakulangang ito. Kaunting tiis pa po. [I know being deprived of your own home hasn’t been easy for you in the IIS. But your perseverance despite this lack has been admirable. Just hang on a little bit longer.]” A highlight of the groundbreaking ceremony is Indah Hanna Wadi’s performance of pangalay. Pangalay is a traditional Tausug dance characterized by elaborate body postures and gestures and the dancer’s graceful arm and hand movement, amplified by metal claws. Afterward, the time capsule was buried to preserve the momentous occasion’s memories and mark the beginning of a prosperous future for the UPD IIS. |
https://up.edu.ph/notice-to-upcat-applicants/ | Notice to UPCAT applicants – University of the Philippines | Notice to UPCAT applicants Notice to UPCAT applicants June 1, 2020 | Posted by UP Media and Public Relations Office The UPCAT 2020 results are now available and can be viewed online. Please visit the UPCAT main website upcat.up.edu.ph and click the Application Status button to view your results. The University of the Philippines is committed to upholding the data privacy rights of all individuals. Never share your usernames and passwords to unauthorized third parties. UP is aware that people have the unfortunate habit of recycling usernames and passwords. Providing the same to unauthorized persons will make individuals vulnerable to identity fraud and other similar crimes, and can lead to personal data breaches. Please DO NOT SHARE your username and password to anyone. Your personal information must be protected at all times. For inquiries, you may send an email to upcatresults@up.edu.ph. |
https://up.edu.ph/malasakit-ng-up-sa-panahon-ng-kalamidad/ | Malasakit ng UP sa Panahon ng Kalamidad – University of the Philippines | Malasakit ng UP sa Panahon ng Kalamidad Malasakit ng UP sa Panahon ng Kalamidad November 18, 2020 | Written by UP Padayon Public Service Office Sa diwa ng pagmamalasakit at pagdadamayan, kagyat na naglunsad ng iba’t ibang relief operations ang komunidad ng UP para sa ating mga kababayang lubhang naapektuhan ng pananalasa ng mga nagdaang bagyo. Upang pag-ibayuhin ang pagtulong para sa pagbangon ng ating komunidad at mga kababayan, itinakda ng UP System Administration ang Nobyembre 16-21, 2020 bilang “RECOVERY PERIOD”, panahon upang maipagpatuloy ang mga sinimulang donation drives, paghahanda ng mga relief goods at pagdadala ng mga ito sa mga evacuation centers, gayundin ang pagtulong para sa rehabilitasyon ng mga apektadong komunidad. Hinihikayat ang lahat na makibahagi sa mga gawain at tumalima sa health protocols habang lumalahok sa mga gawaing ito upang maiwasan ang pagkalat ng COVID-19. Para sa listahan ng mga relief efforts ng buong UP System, bisitahin ang link na ito. Maaaring basahin ang OVPAA Memorandum No. 2020-139 dito. |
https://up.edu.ph/message-from-up-president-danilo-l-concepcion-on-salaries-and-employee-benefits/ | Message from UP President Danilo L. Concepcion on salaries and employee benefits – University of the Philippines | Message from UP President Danilo L. Concepcion on salaries and employee benefits Message from UP President Danilo L. Concepcion on salaries and employee benefits March 23, 2020 | Written by Danilo L. Concepcion March 23, 2020 Dear members of the UP community: As I said in a previous letter, we find ourselves in extraordinarily challenging times, facing down a pandemic and an enhanced community quarantine meant to contain this pandemic. Unfortunately, some of the hardest hit economically by the order to work from home are our administrative staff and non-UP contractual personnel. In order to help our UP employees and non-UP contractual personnel get through this difficult period, we are working with our partners in government and within the University to come up with a set of measures to provide our UP personnel some financial relief. One such measure is the early release of the 13th month pay as soon as possible, which we are coordinating with the Department of Budget and Management. We are looking for available funds to grant all qualified employees and workforce of the University an emergency allowance. We are also releasing today the Rice Allowance and the Annual Incentive Grant, amounts equivalent to the minimum of the first tranches, as indicated in the guidelines issued last week. We are also aware that not all of our UP personnel are working from home. The University is currently operating on a skeleton staff: our heroic medical workers such as in the University Health Service and the UP Philippine General Hospital, and the personnel providing essential services for UP. A Risk Allowance will be given to these employees, equivalent to hazard pay. The salaries of regular and UP contractual personnel for the period March 16-31, 2020 shall be released today, March 23, 2020, while the salaries for the period April 1-15, 2020 will be released on April 7, 2020. The compensation of non-UP contractual personnel, including project-based, job order, and contract of service (COS) personnel, are assured during the period of suspension and will be released on or before March 31, 2020 and on or before April 15, 2020. These measures are expected to be enacted by the end of this week. Our administrative staff and non-UP contractual workers are the strength of the University. Without them, UP would be unable to function, let alone fulfill its mandate as our national university. We will therefore do all we can to provide safety nets to enable them to support themselves and their families as they continue to serve both UP and the country. Naglilingkod, Danilo L. Concepcion President University of the Philippines |
https://up.edu.ph/up-president-danilo-l-concepcion-pays-tribute-to-the-mother-of-devcom-dr-nora-c-quebral/ | UP President Danilo L. Concepcion pays tribute to the “Mother of DevCom”, Dr. Nora C. Quebral – University of the Philippines | UP President Danilo L. Concepcion pays tribute to the “Mother of DevCom”, Dr. Nora C. Quebral UP President Danilo L. Concepcion pays tribute to the “Mother of DevCom”, Dr. Nora C. Quebral October 28, 2020 | Written by Office of the President Today, we mourn the passing of one of the greatest pioneers the University of the Philippines has produced. At the same time, we honor and celebrate the life she lived and the immense legacy she leaves behind. Dr. Nora Cruz Quebral has been known by a number of titles throughout her life. She was a UP Professor Emeritus of the UP Los Baños College of Development Communication (CDC), which under her watch has grown from a service unit established under the UP College of Agriculture in 1954, to the Department of Agricultural Information and Communication in 1962, which was renamed the Department of Development Communication in 1971, to the Institute of Development Communication in 1987, and finally, a full-fledged college in 1998. She served the growing institution as chairperson for three separate terms spanning 17 years, from 1966 to 1985. As former UP CDC Dean Maria Celeste H. Cadiz wrote in 2007: “The history of the UPLB College of Development Communication is in a large part the history of Nora’s career in the academe, along with that of the development communication program and its practice at Los Baños.” The institution and the generations of students she mentored who are now recognized educators and practitioners of development communication themselves, who continue to nurture the new crop of UP graduates who will lead in the field with honor and excellence—they are the living testament to Dr. Nora’s unparalleled dedication to her vocation. As a trailblazer in an entire discipline, Dr. Quebral was also often called the “mother of development communication”. It was her 1971 paper entitled “Development Communication in the Agricultural Context” that defined the discipline. She later expanded on this, describing development communication as “the art and science of human communication applied to the speedy transformation of a country and the mass of its people from poverty to a dynamic state of economic growth that makes possible greater social equality and the larger fulfillment of the human potential”. She developed the concept that is popularly called the “Los Baños school of thought”. The continuing growth and evolution of development communication within the myriad sociocultural and economic realities around the country and the world are a fitting tribute to her vision and insight. But perhaps her most treasured moniker would be the simplest one: “NCQ”. This was what she was called by her peers, colleagues, students, and friends. Her brilliance had been evident since her youth, when she graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree, magna cum laude, from UP Diliman, then earned her MS in agricultural journalism at the University of Wisconsin–Madison as US International Cooperation Agency and Philippine National Economic Council scholar, and then received her PhD in communication at the University of Illinois at Urbana–Champaign as Rockefeller Foundation scholar in 1966. Dr. Nora worked as a secretary at the Claims Service of the US Army while she was still a student, then after graduating as a debate stenographer of the Labor Management Advisory Board. In 1952, she served as copyeditor of the journal Philippine Agriculturist published by the UP College of Agriculture and later as a UP faculty member in 1960. And it was here that she found her home. She also founded the Nora C. Quebral Development Communication Centre, Inc. and later served as a consultant and expert in development communication. In 2007, she received the first Hildegard Award for Women in Media and Communication. Dr. Quebral lived her life as a beacon, illuminating the path for the many who would come after her, building institutions and mentoring generations. It can be said for few of us that our light would only continue to shine more brightly after our passing, our legacy a flame passed on from torch to torch, evolving with the passing years. Dr. Nora C. Quebral was one such life. Mula sa UP na inyong minahal, maraming salamat po at paalam, NCQ. DANILO L. CONCEPCION President |
https://up.edu.ph/up-webinar-gives-the-low-down-on-monkeypox/ | UP webinar gives the low-down on monkeypox – University of the Philippines | UP webinar gives the low-down on monkeypox UP webinar gives the low-down on monkeypox June 1, 2022 | Written by Deina Blancaflor In mid-May, the World Health Organization (WHO) reported that 12 countries had cases of the monkeypox virus. Monkeypox is not new. The virus has been endemic in several African countries for years already. What may be new and alarming is that monkeypox cases are emerging in non-endemic countries such as Australia, Belgium, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, the United Kingdom, and the United States. Interestingly, these cases have no known travel links as well. How, then, is the disease transmitted? What are its signs and symptoms? How is it different from smallpox and chickenpox? How can we prevent monkeypox from coming to our shores? This June 3, from 12:00 noon to 2:00 pm, the University of the Philippines (UP), in partnership with UP Manila National Institutes of Health (UP-NIH), National Telehealth Center (NTC), and cooperation with UP Philippine General Hospital (UP-PGH), would like to invite you to join the fight against C.O.V.I.D. Titled “Monkeypox: Dapat bang matakot?” the episode will answer all our questions about these recent monkeypox cases and discuss everything we know about them so far. Dr. Enrique A. Tayag, Director of the Department of Health-Knowledge Management and Information Technology Service IV (DOH-KMITS), will share the timeline of the disease and what its spread means to front liners. Dr. Joseph Adrian Buensalido, an infectious disease expert and Clinical Associate Professor in the Department of Medicine at UP-PGH, will discuss diagnosis, differentials, clinical management, and treatment. Lastly, Dr. Merrill Van Yu, Adult Infectious Diseases Fellow from UP-PGH, will focus on hospital-based measures and preparations to protect health workers and the public alike. Register here and catch our weekly live tweets and streams via the UP System Twitter Account and T.V.U.P.’s YouTube channel and Facebook page. Let us not let fear get in our ability to learn facts and prepare for any eventuality, especially since the COVID-19 pandemic is not yet over. The award-winning UP “Stop COVID Deaths” Webinar Series is the Philippines’ first and only frontline-focused medical webinar series. It pioneered the discussion, dissemination, and adoption of knowledge on COVID-19 treatment and management. Follow our accounts to stay connected with your credible online community. |
https://up.edu.ph/a-statement-from-the-president/ | A Statement from the President – University of the Philippines | A Statement from the President A Statement from the President December 2, 2018 | Written by President Danilo L. Concepcion A Facebook post made by a Regent of the University of the Philippines has been making the rounds of social media, advocating the use of violence against members of the men’s basketball team of the Ateneo de Manila University. While this regent has deleted the post and has apologized for its contents, claiming that they were made in jest, I wish to make it clear the University of the Philippines takes these statements seriously and dissociates itself from the post and from the actuations of this regent, matters which I intend to take up with the Board of Regents. They do not in any way represent the values of the University, and the high esteem in which it holds sportsmanship, fair play, and civility in athletics as well as in other aspects of our academic and social life. Let the UAAP championship resume in the noblest of spirits and intentions. UP Fight! One Big Fight! Mabuhay ang pagkakaisa at diwa ng Katipunan! DANILO L. CONCEPCION President 02 December 2018 |
https://up.edu.ph/up-celebrates-the-groundbreaking-of-the-sigma-delta-phi-sorority-by-francisco-v-gargantiel-ii/ | Groundbreaking of the new UP Sigma Delta Phi Sorority Plaza held – University of the Philippines | Groundbreaking of the new UP Sigma Delta Phi Sorority Plaza held Groundbreaking of the new UP Sigma Delta Phi Sorority Plaza held October 28, 2022 | Written by Franco Gargantiel II A new plaza will soon rise in the UP Diliman campus—featuring a modern sculpture titled “Tagapag-Ugnay by UP Fine Arts alumna Melanie Libatique—courtesy of the UP Sigma Delta Phi Sorority (DSP) Alumnae Association to commemorate its 90th anniversary in 2023. Image provided by Ms. Melanie Libatique. October 17, 2022, was the official groundbreaking of a new plaza soon to rise in the University of the Philippines’ (UP) Diliman campus, spearheaded by the UP Sigma Delta Phi (SDP) Sorority Alumnae Association in cooperation with the UP Office of the President. The new plaza will feature a modern sculpture titled “Tagapag-Ugnay,” designed by Sigma Deltan Melanie Chanco Libatique, a BFA Sculpture magna cum laude graduate from the UP College of Fine Arts. The SDP Plaza is a legacy project of UP Sigma Delta Phi Sorority and will be located at Lakandula corner T.M. Kalaw Streets in UP Diliman. This project will be completed in February 2023 for Sigma Delta’s 90th-anniversary celebration, which will revolve around the SDP Plaza and flow into a street fair called “Balikada” (Balik Dekada sa UP). Visitors will be able to experience the sights and sounds of nine decades of campus life from the 1930s to the present through exhibits, music, food, and the era’s history. Images provided by Ms. Melanie Libatique. The new, three-piece modernist sculpture “Tagapag-Ugnay” represents and honors women’s constant challenges, innate strengths, and triumphs merited and meritorious as they sustain a cultural union of the physical and the metaphysical. It lauds the feminine among ancient Philippine divinities such as the Goddess of the morning Hanan, the Goddess of stars, Tala, IIdianale, the Goddess of labor and good deeds, and the Goddess of cultivated land, Ikapati. According to the project concept paper, “Tagapag-ugnay” expresses transcendence from the world’s vagaries and the triumph of diverse roles from the hand that rocks the cradle to a status of respect and equality in the community, the nation, and the world. “Tagapag-ugnay” evokes sisterhood and Sigma Delta Phi. UP President Danilo Concepcion (in light-colored shirt) inspecting the mockup of the sculpture, “Tapagag-Ugnay,” to be installed in the new SDP Plaza. Photo from Ms. Melanie Libatique. Many important guests attended the groundbreaking ceremony for the SFP Plaza, including UP President Danilo Concepcion, UP Chancellor Fidel Nemenzo, Monalisa M. Lacanlale, and Marife Zamora. Along with giving speeches, the UP and UPSDP officials, together with SDP Plaza and statue designer Melanie Libatique, took part in burying the time capsule. UP is proud to continue celebrating local art and looks forward to seeing what new creations will be made with future generations that will heavily impact the Philippines and Filipinos everywhere. Photos of the UP System, UP Diliman, and UP Sigma Delta Phi Alumnae Association officials who attended the groundbreaking ceremony for the new plaza. Photo by Bong Arboleda (UP MPRO) Photo by Bong Arboleda (UP MPRO) UP Sigma Delta Phi was founded in 1933 and became well-known through the years for its artistic productions featuring prominent campus personalities. The UPSDP counts among its alumnae notable people such as Celia Diaz Laurel, Maureen Tiongco, and Dee Marquez, artists such as Araceli Limcaco Dans, Cota Deles Yabut, and Ofelia Gelvezon Tequi, economist Solita “Winnie” Monsod, architect Tina Turalba; writer Felice Prudente Sta. Maria, and the late activist Nelia Sancho. All of these women went from participating in sorority activities to the larger stage beyond Diliman, gaining recognition in their respective fields. A new batch of Sigma Delta Phi alumnae will receive Mariang Maya awards for distinguished achievement during the culmination of the February 2023 celebrations. |
https://up.edu.ph/dementia-in-the-time-of-the-pandemic-and-what-we-can-do-for-our-senior-citizens/ | Dementia in the time of the pandemic, and what we can do for our senior citizens – University of the Philippines | Dementia in the time of the pandemic, and what we can do for our senior citizens Dementia in the time of the pandemic, and what we can do for our senior citizens June 15, 2022 | Written by Deina Blancaflor There are an estimated 10 million senior citizens in the Philippines, which may double by 2040. Within this sizable population, a growing number suffer from dementia. Worsening the situation is the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, which continues to impact older people both physically and mentally. Seniors are at the highest risk for infection, complications, and even death. Their limited movement and inability to go out and frequently socialize also contribute to the “deconditioning” of their minds and bodies. How can we properly care for our elderly? What are the early signs and symptoms of dementia? How can healthcare front-liners guide families and caregivers in handling seniors with dementia while ensuring their quality of life is maintained? This June 17, from 12nn to 2 pm, the University of the Philippines (UP), in partnership with the UP Manila National Institutes of Health (UP-NIH), the National Telehealth Center (NTC), and in cooperation with UP Philippine General Hospital (UP-PGH), invite you to join the fight against C.O.V.I.D—current COVID-19 problems, other outbreaks, viruses, infections, and disasters. In this week’s episode of the UP “Stop C.O.V.I.D. Deaths” webinar series, “Demensya sa Panahon ng Pandemya,” two experts will shed light on everything we need to know about dementia. The speakers are leading gerontologists, Dr. Shelley De La Vega, Director of the Institute of Aging at the NTC, UP Manila, and Dr. Evangeline Dela Fuente, Chair of the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Medicine of the College of Medicine, UP Manila. Dr. Stella Marie Jose, UP PGH Deputy Director for Health Operations, will give the synthesis and closing remarks. Register here and catch our weekly live tweets and streams via the UP System Twitter Account and T.V.U.P.’s YouTube channel and Facebook pages. Together, let’s learn about dementia for the sake of our family members who suffer from the disease. The award-winning UP “Stop COVID Deaths” Webinar Series is the Philippines’ first and only frontline-focused medical webinar series. It pioneered the discussion, dissemination, and adoption of knowledge on COVID-19 treatment and management. Follow our accounts to stay connected with your credible online community. |
https://up.edu.ph/another-surge-up-webinar-to-talk-about-covid-19-updates-rising-cases/ | Another surge? UP webinar to talk about COVID-19 updates, rising cases – University of the Philippines | Another surge? UP webinar to talk about COVID-19 updates, rising cases Another surge? UP webinar to talk about COVID-19 updates, rising cases July 13, 2022 | Written by Deina Blancaflor COVID-19 infections are once again increasing around the globe. The World Health Organization (WHO) points to waning immunity from vaccination and the emergence of new sub-variants Omicron BA.4 and BA.5 as the main reasons for the spike in cases. Although data shows fewer people have been hospitalized, and most infections are mild, this is not the same for everyone. Senior citizens and immunocompromised populations have always been at the highest risk for COVID and its complications. Recent reviews show that a higher number of severe COVID-19 cases and deaths are found in a “U-shape” of extreme ages among seniors and those under six. The vaccination rollout for children below age six only started a few months ago. While it was established that the benefits of vaccinating against COVID greatly outweigh the risks, we still do not know much about the apparent dangers of the disease should these children get infected. What is the course of COVID-19 in children below six years old? What is the prevalence of severe COVID in them? As these children may be unable to verbalize their experience, what are early signs that they may be infected? Where are we on the vaccination rollout for the under-six age group? This July 15, from 12nn to 2 pm, the University of the Philippines (UP), in partnership with UP Manila National Institutes of Health (UP-NIH), National Telehealth Center (NTC), and cooperation with UP Philippine General Hospital (UP-PGH), invite you to join the fight against C.O.V.I.D—current COVID-19 problems, other outbreaks, viruses, infections, and disasters. In this episode of UP’s “Stop COVID Deaths webinar series, titled “DUMADAMI ANG KASO: Sino ang nagkaka-severe COVID. Ngayon?” we take a closer look at the latest surge and which groups are at higher risk for hospitalization and death. Dr. John Q. Wong, Co-Founder and Senior Technical Adviser at EpiMetrics, Inc., will present the results of a two-year review of COVID-19 data from the Philippines. Dr. Marissa M. Alejandra, President of the Philippine Society for Microbiology and Infectious Disease (PISMID) and a Professor at the Clinical Epidemiology Unit at UP-NIH, will provide a general update on the increase in cases, including more information on the new sub-variants, and a discussion on treatment and prevention of spread. Register here and catch our weekly live tweets and streams via the UP System Twitter Account and TVUP’s YouTube channel and Facebook page. The pandemic is far from over, and with the waning immunity from primary vaccine doses one to two years ago, we continue to push for booster shots to strengthen our walls of immunity. Please stay connected with your credible online community, so we hope to see you this Friday! The award-winning UP “Stop COVID Deaths” Webinar Series is the Philippines’ first and only frontline-focused medical webinar series. It pioneered the discussion, dissemination, and adoption of knowledge on COVID-19 treatment and management. Follow our accounts to stay connected with your credible online community. |
https://up.edu.ph/to-boost-or-not-to-boost-up-webinar-to-focus-on-covid-boosters/ | To boost or not to boost? UP webinar to focus on COVID boosters – University of the Philippines | To boost or not to boost? UP webinar to focus on COVID boosters To boost or not to boost? UP webinar to focus on COVID boosters July 6, 2022 | Written by Deina Blancaflor While almost 70 percent of the Philippine population have completed their primary COVID-19 doses, not even half of that number has gotten jabbed for both first and second booster shots. How do we encourage more people to get boosted against COVID-19? Do we need to get booster shots in the first place? How urgent is it for us to get boosted? Do we have enough vaccines to cover the vulnerable for first and second boosters? This July 8, from 12nn to 2 pm, the University of the Philippines (UP), in partnership with UP Manila National Institutes of Health (UP-NIH), National Telehealth Center (NTC), and cooperation with UP Philippine General Hospital (UP-PGH), invite you to join the fight against C.O.V.I.D—current COVID-19 problems, other outbreaks, viruses, infections, and disasters. This week’s episode will discuss the science behind boosters for COVID-19 and the process used for coming up with recommendations by the Health Technology Assessment Council (HTAC). The webinar will revisit this new group organized under the Universal Health Care Law, its role and purpose, and how it has worked with other agencies during this pandemic. Dr. Marita V. Tolentino-Reyes, Former UP Manila Chancellor and current head of HTAC, will present an overview of boosters and their role in the waning immunity for COVID-19. Dr. Limuel Anthony B. Abrogena, Chair of the Subcommittee on Prevention and Promotive Health Services at HTAC, will discuss their recommendations for different groups and all the processes. Lastly, Dr. Anna Melissa S. Guerrero, Department of Health (DOH) Director for Regulations, will discuss the operational challenges and possible solutions for bringing all localities to higher vaccination levels. The webinar will end with the synthesis of Dr. Stella Marie L. Jose, Deputy Director for Health Operations at UP-PGH. Register here and catch our weekly live tweets and streams via the UP System Twitter Account and TVUP’s YouTube channel and Facebook page. See you on Friday! The award-winning UP “Stop COVID Deaths” Webinar Series is the Philippines’ first and only frontline-focused medical webinar series. It pioneered the discussion, dissemination, and adoption of knowledge on COVID-19 treatment and management. Follow our accounts to stay connected with your credible online community. |
https://up.edu.ph/covid-vax-and-kidney-disease-up-webinar-takes-on-the-pluses-and-risks/ | COVID vax and kidney disease: UP webinar takes on the pluses and risks – University of the Philippines | COVID vax and kidney disease: UP webinar takes on the pluses and risks COVID vax and kidney disease: UP webinar takes on the pluses and risks June 22, 2022 | Written by Deina Blancaflor COVID-19 has put an additional strain on patients with kidney disease. Earlier in the pandemic, there was limited access to dialysis centers, which led to many patients missing their crucial dialysis schedules. Also, as immunocompromised patients, the risks of COVID complications are far higher for them. With the introduction of the vaccination program, a new hope for normalcy and protection has been restored. Most experts agree that the vaccine’s benefits for people with kidney disease at any stage—including those on dialysis or those who had undergone a kidney transplant—are much greater than the risks. Some studies even point to highly high short-term mortality from COVID, higher than 20 percent. However, questions still linger in the minds of patients, families, and even front-line workers: Do patients with kidney disease have the same level of protection from the vaccines compared to those without? Are additional precautions needed when administering vaccines to patients with chronic renal disease? Can transplant patients receive the COVID-19 vaccine? This Friday, June 24, from 12nn to 2 pm, the University of the Philippines (UP), in partnership with UP Manila National Institutes of Health (UP-NIH), National Telehealth Center (NTC), and cooperation with UP Philippine General Hospital (UP-PGH), invite you to join the fight against C.O.V.I.D—current COVID-19 problems, and other outbreaks, viruses, infections, and disasters. This episode of UP’s “Stop C.O.V.I.D. Deaths” webinar series—titled “Epektibo ba ang COVID-19 Vaccine sa mga may Sakit sa Kidney?” —will take a closer look at COVID-19 vaccination for patients with kidney disease, including those who have had a kidney transplant. The main speaker is Dr. Romina Danguilan, Head of the Hemodialysis Unit and current Deputy Executive Director for Education, Training, and Research Services at the National Kidney Transplant Institute (NKTI). She will provide an overview of chronic renal disease in the country and discuss the challenges of the pandemic for dialysis centers. She will also share the recent research findings on vaccine effectiveness among transplant patients at the NKTI. Dr. Cybele R. Abad, Clinical Associate Professor at the UP-PGH and an expert on Infectious Diseases, will talk about breakthrough infections of COVID-19 among vaccinated kidney transplant patients. UP-PGH Deputy Director for Health Operations Dr. Stella Marie L. Jose will deliver the synthesis and closing remarks. Register here and catch our weekly live tweets and streams via the UP System Twitter Account and TVUP’s Youtube channel and Facebook page. Together, let’s equip ourselves with knowledge on COVID-19 and kidney disease to correctly guide families in their decision-making. The award-winning UP “Stop COVID Deaths” Webinar Series is the Philippines’ first and only frontline-focused medical webinar series. It pioneered the discussion, dissemination, and adoption of knowledge on COVID-19 treatment and management. Follow our accounts to stay connected with your credible online community. |
https://up.edu.ph/how-up-tackles-leaching-learning-in-the-health-sciences-in-the-new-normal/ | How UP tackles teaching, learning in the health sciences in the ‘new normal’ – University of the Philippines | How UP tackles teaching, learning in the health sciences in the ‘new normal’ How UP tackles teaching, learning in the health sciences in the ‘new normal’ July 20, 2022 | Written by Deina Blancaflor There is no denying that the COVID-19 pandemic has affected all aspects of our lives. From how we travel, dress and protect ourselves, and learn—we have had to gradually adapt to this so-called “new normal” as we try to carry on with our routines safely. While our frontliners and healthcare workers bravely continue their life-saving work through this pandemic, we must keep producing a new generation of skilled healthcare professionals. This Friday, July 22, from 12nn to 2 pm, the University of the Philippines (UP), in partnership with UP Manila National Institutes of Health (UP-NIH), National Telehealth Center (NTC), and cooperation with UP Philippine General Hospital (UP-PGH), would like to invite you to join the fight against C.O.V.I.D—current COVID-19 problems, other outbreaks, viruses, infections, and disasters. In this week’s episode of UP’s “Stop C.O.V.I.D. Deaths” webinar series, titled “Ang Pagtuturo ng Medisina, Nursing, at Dentistry sa New Normal,” we will take a closer look at how education remains of primary importance to the health sciences center of the Philippines. The UP Colleges of Medicine, Nursing, and Dentistry have implemented ways of training students without compromising their skills and safety. This collaborative roadmap for internship, residency, and overall medical, nursing, and dental education are all in line with the guidelines set in the Commission on Higher Education-Department of Health (CHED-DOH) joint memorandum circular. UP College of Medicine Dean Charlotte M. Chiong, UP College of Nursing Dean Shiela R. Bonito, and UP College of Dentistry Dean Danilo L. Magtanong will share how they have adopted the most innovative strategies to teach health care professionals-in-training. UP Manila Chancellor Carmencita D. Padilla will formally close the event with a synthesis and message. Register for this webinar here. Catch our weekly live tweets and streams via the UP System Twitter Account and TVUP’s YouTube channel and Facebook page. The award-winning UP “Stop COVID Deaths” Webinar Series is the Philippines’ first and only frontline-focused medical webinar series. It pioneered the discussion, dissemination, and adoption of knowledge on COVID-19 treatment and management. Follow our accounts to stay connected with your credible online community. |
https://up.edu.ph/floods-earthquakes-and-volcanic-eruptions-disaster-risk-management-during-covid/ | Floods, earthquakes, and volcanic eruptions: Disaster risk management during COVID – University of the Philippines | Floods, earthquakes, and volcanic eruptions: Disaster risk management during COVID Floods, earthquakes, and volcanic eruptions: Disaster risk management during COVID July 27, 2022 | Written by Deina Blancaflor The Philippines has always been a hotspot for typhoons, volcanic eruptions, earthquakes, and other natural disasters. Hours ago, a magnitude-7 earthquake struck Luzon, prompting evacuations and disrupting transportation. The tremor was recorded at 8:43 am and originated in Abra. Earlier, Banaue and other northern parts of Luzon were hit by heavy rains, which prompted flash floods and landslides. Given the increasing effects of climate change and the country’s archipelagic structure, we need to predict, prepare, and practice disaster risk and reduction management. Which parts of the country are most prone to flooding, landslides, and other disasters? How can the health sector better protect its facilities and frontline workers? What can we do as a community to prepare for catastrophic events, especially during this pandemic? This Friday, July 29, from 12nn to 2 pm, the University of the Philippines (UP), in partnership with UP Manila National Institutes of Health (UP-NIH) and the National Telehealth Center (NTC), and in cooperation with UP Philippine General Hospital (UP-PGH), invites you to join the fight against C.O.V.I.D: current COVID-19 problems, other outbreaks, viruses, infections, and disasters. In this week’s episode of UP’s “Stop C.O.V.I.D. Deaths” webinar series, “Baha, Landslide, at COVID-19”, Dr. Mahar A. Lagmay, a disaster risk expert, will walk us through the basic principles of risk mapping and identification. Dr. Rio L. Magpantay, Department of Health (DOH) Regional Director for the Cordillera Autonomous Region (CAR), will talk about his personal experience during the recent Banaue flash floods and landslides tackle the role of health workers in complex disasters. Dr. Stella Marie L. Jose, UP-PGH Deputy Director for Health Operations, will deliver the synthesis and closing remarks. Don’t miss this important episode. Register here. Catch our weekly live tweets and streams via the UP System Twitter Account and TVUP’s YouTube channel and Facebook page. The award-winning UP “Stop COVID Deaths” Webinar Series is the Philippines’ first and only frontline-focused medical webinar series. It pioneered the discussion, dissemination, and adoption of knowledge on COVID-19 treatment and management. Follow our accounts to stay connected with your credible online community. |
https://up.edu.ph/a-free-clinic-for-up-athletes/ | A Free Clinic for UP Athletes – University of the Philippines | A Free Clinic for UP Athletes A Free Clinic for UP Athletes July 12, 2018 | Written by Fred Dabu In field training coverage. (Photo from the UP Sports Physical Therapy Clinic) The University of the Philippines (UP) Diliman has a dedicated team of professionals that provides the UP Fighting Maroons—the collegiate varsity teams of UP Diliman—the health care they need, before and during University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP) tournaments. Directly under the UP College of Human Kinetics (CHK), the UP Sports Physical Therapy Clinic (UP SPTC) is the only accredited facility that primarily provides free medical consultation, physical therapy services, first aid and paramedical assistance, and rehabilitation programs to all UP enlisted athletes. The clinic also offers local and international certification courses, trainings and seminars for physical therapy student interns and professionals in the field of sports and orthopedics. These services are also available to the University’s students, faculty, administrative personnel, and the general public. Therapy in the field According to UP SPTC Director Maria Angela L. Borras, the clinic was originally a joint project of the CHK and the then UP School of Allied Medical Professions (now College of Allied Medical Professions in UP Manila). But it was only about a decade ago when the varsity physiotherapist then for the Maroons, Anthony Caguioa, reopened the facility and accepted student interns from UP Manila to be trained in sports, says Borras. When Borras took over the job in 2011, the UP SPTC was formally set up as an organization headed by the CHK dean. “Clinical supervisors, who are licensed PTs, were welcomed as consultants. The CHK provided an in-house physiatrist for medical consultation, and with a good number of PTs available, the clinic started to operate regularly during weekdays, from 8 am to 5 pm,” she says. Medical consultation. (Photo from the UP Sports Physical Therapy Clinic) “In 2012, the clinic developed a system that partnered student interns with licensed therapists, which allowed training and game coverage for all UP Fighting Maroons varsity teams, specifically for UAAP games. Therapy sessions have been done in the field to provide return-to-sports intervention and careful monitoring of the reintegration of recovering athletes to the team and sports,” continues Borras. According to Borras, the milestones of the clinic include “providing post-graduate seminars and certification courses for licensed PTs and other sports professionals (2014); hosting an international certification course for Kinesiology Taping and Instrument Assisted Soft-Tissue Mobilization techniques (2015); Commission on Higher Education accreditation as an internship facility (2016); graduates from UP SPTC serving as physiotherapists for both professional and non-professional athletic teams; licensed PTs who underwent post graduate training specialization working for teams here and outside the country; hosting international certification courses which cut the expenses for our local practitioners; staff serving for the Rio Summer Olympics (2016), FIFA Medical Emergency course, Anti-Doping course for healthcare professionals by Stanford University, and this year’s Russia World Cup; and, staff pursuing their master’s degree.” Personnel, equipment, and other services The UP SPTC aims to “give excellent physical therapy services for injury prevention, rehabilitation and performance enhancement of the UP Diliman Varsity Teams;” and “be a role model for all sports physical therapy clinics in the country,” among its other goals mentioned earlier. And to fulfill these aims, the clinic operates under the leadership of CHK Dean Ronualdo Dizer and in coordination with Prof. Oscar Santelices, chair of the Varsity Athletics Admission System (VAAS). Athlete’s clinic-based rehabilitation session. (Photo from the UP Sports Physical Therapy Clinic) Dr. Alberto Magpily serves as the resident physiatrist. According to Borras, the resident physiatrist and visiting orthopedic doctors from the UP Philippine General Hospital are in charge of “medical consultations and referrals for ancillary procedures and physical therapy intervention or other services, as needed.” The varsity physiotherapist, tasked with ensuring that the teams are “provided with necessary care, training, game, and clinic based rehabilitation” is Ma. Crisanta Prieto. Borras, as the director of the facility, adds that she handles “external matters involving the clinic, such as partnerships with other universities, seminars and workshops, and other non-patient related events.” Borras explains that they, together with other physical therapists, serve as consultants, and as clinical and field supervisors who guide and assess students’ performance during their affiliation period. Borras says that the clinic, located at the Ylanan Gymnasium of the CHK, makes use of equipment such as “therapeutic modalities like ultrasound and TENS, a traction machine, a LASER machine, and exercise machines for strengthening and endurance.” She adds that “the clinic also offers specialized services like instrument assisted soft tissue mobilization, stationary and gliding cups, kinesiology taping, and wellness programs for weight loss or competition preparation for recreational athletes.” The clinic’s UP spirit With only one physiotherapist in charge of all the members of the varsity teams of UP Diliman, of each and every athlete of the UP Fighting Maroons, and clinic personnel having no security of tenure as consultants under non-UP contracts that are renewed every six months, the UP SPTC harnesses the UP spirit of honor and excellence, and dedication and grit, to provide its services, fulfill its goals, and thrive. Interns’ lecture sessions done at the start of their internship rotation to equip them with necessary knowledge and skills upon duty assignments. (Photo from the UP Sports Physical Therapy Clinic) “Everyone else looking after the interns—10 to 12 students—and all the varsity teams, are compensated on consultancy basis. They enjoy no benefits and no papers despite their service to the University,” Borras reveals. “Our varsity physiotherapist is under a non-UP contract which is renewed every six months. Since the consultants and the varsity physiotherapist are not compensated and given benefits accordingly, dedication to the institution leads them to working multiple jobs to keep up with individual needs. Whenever a consultant is offered a more sustainable opportunity, the clinic has no power to make a counter-offer and ends up losing staff almost every academic year,” she adds. “The majority of the clientele of the clinic are the athletes, and since they are provided for free, the services, seminars and workshops, have been utilized to raise funds to compensate the consultants. Student-interns are also providing minimal affiliation fees and non-athletes are charged minimally as well. But these funds are not fixed and are limited to the number of enrollees for every year and on a periodic basis, and to the number of non-athletes referred to the center. In the end, the system, facility, and the services are always in limbo until job security for the personnel is provided,” explains Borras. Live healthy In closing, Borras invites everyone to live a healthy life. “‘Exercise is medicine’ has never been more relevant than at present when common mortality causes are modifiable conditions and non-communicable diseases. As an advocate of movement and believer of adding more years to life, the clinic welcomes everyone to take charge of their health through seeking the services of professionals” she says. In field game coverage. (Photo from the UP Sports Physical Therapy Clinic) “One does not need to get injured, be diagnosed with a disease, or be pressured by society before commencing to live a healthy lifestyle. Alongside the advocacy for movement, the Clinic aims to train more proficient and passionate individuals who will share their knowledge and skills with athletes and non-athletes, and UP and non-UP members alike,” concludes Borras. The clinic can be contacted via sportsptclinic@gmail.com for health and wellness concerns or sports-related services. Read the online UP Forum April-June 2018 Vol. 19 No. 2 issue in full here. |
https://up.edu.ph/nittaidai-students-to-teach-physical-education-in-up/ | Nittaidai students to teach Physical Education in UP – University of the Philippines | Nittaidai students to teach Physical Education in UP Nittaidai students to teach Physical Education in UP February 26, 2019 | Written by Andre DP Encarnacion UP President Danilo L. Concepcion meets with students from the Nippon Sport Science University (NSSU/Nittaidai). Photo by Bong Arboleda, UP MPRO’ On February 21, 2019, two faculty members and nine students from the Nippon Sport Science University (NSSU/Nittaidai) took part in the signing ceremonies of a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) between NSSU and the University of the Philippines. Held at the Office of the University President in UP Diliman’s Quezon Hall, the Japanese contingent was warmly received by UP officials led by President Danilo L Concepcion, UP Diliman Chancellor Michael Tan and UP College of Human Kinetics Dean Francis Carlos Diaz. The MOA laid the grounds for the creation of a supervised training program involving the students of NSSU and UP. Starting this academic year 2019-2020, students from the NSSU will be visiting UP, in particular the UP Integrated School (UPIS), to teach Physical Education to its students for a total of 30 to 40 hours. The NSSU is highly acclaimed in Japan for producing several successful athletes and coaches who have gone on to win medals in the Olympics and other international competitions. They have brought home 128 gold, silver and bronze medals, accounting for around a quarter of the nation’s total medal haul. Officials from UP Diliman led by UP CHK Dean Francis Carlos Diaz (center, in white) and UPD OIL Director Imee Su Martinez (3rd from left) meet with NSSU faculty and students. Photo by Bong Arboleda, UP MPRO The group from NSSU was led by professors Eiko Kaneda and Kazuyuki Yamaguchi, who represented NSSU President Koji Gushiken at the signing. The nine students who witnessed the ceremonies are part of the MABUHAY program of the UP Diliman Office of International Linkages (UPD OIL), a two-week interdisciplinary program that exposes foreign students to Philippine language and culture. In addition to cultural trips around Metro Manila, the students from NSSU had the opportunity to attend and observe PE classes in UP, as well as train with varsity teams of sports like baseball, tennis and women’s basketball. They were also able to watch a number of UAAP Season 81 games involving the softball and men’s volleyball teams. Officials from both UP Diliman and NSSU pose with President Concepcion after the signing. Photo by Bong Arboleda, UP MPRO According to President Concepcion, having the students from NSSU training with UP athletes will unite both parties in sportsmanship, despite UP’s relatively inferior facilities. “Though you belong to different worlds,” Concepcion said, “somehow your presence here serves as a bridge. You are bridging the gap between the peoples of our two countries and making us closer.” |
https://up.edu.ph/the-safecampusto-up-fight-against-vaw-campaign/ | The #SafeCampusTo: UP Fight against VAW campaign – University of the Philippines | The #SafeCampusTo: UP Fight against VAW campaign The #SafeCampusTo: UP Fight against VAW campaign March 27, 2019 | Written by Vince Hermoso In its efforts to realize a vision of the campus as a safe space, the UP Center for Women’s and Gender Studies (UPCWGS) has collaborated with the UP Fighting Maroons Men’s Basketball Team (MBT) and the UP Pep Squad in a campaign denouncing all forms of sexism, misogyny, and violence against women (VAW). With its goal of making the University of the Philippines the nation’s role model for other colleges and universities, the UPCWGS, together with the College of Human Kinetics (CHK), the UP MBT, and the UP Pep Squad launched the #SafeCampusTo: UP Fight Against VAW campaign on March 23, Saturday at 10 am at the UP Diliman Quezon Hall steps. “Atin ‘to” was the rallying cry of Paul “Kapitan” Desiderio that turned into a chant accompanying the UP Fighting Maroons Men’s Basketball Team as they secured a spot in the UAAP Season 81 finals – a historic event the UP community had waited 32 years for. The Pep Squad ng Bayan, the UP Pep Squad, has a long record of exhibiting “Utak at Puso” with a record of 20 podium finishes in the UAAP Cheerdance competition and is known for incorporating social advocacies in its performances. Its unforgettable 2014 Equality routine promoted empowerment and equality across all genders. Dean Francis “Kiko” Carlos B. Diaz (in maroon shirt) of the CHK with the members of the UP Men’s Basketball Team and the UP Pep Squad at the launch of #SafeCampusTo: UP Fight Against VAW on March 23 at the Quezon Hall Steps, UP Diliman The UPCWGS held collaborative seminar workshops on gender sensitivity, sexual harassment, and VAW with the UP MBT and the UP Pep Squad as part of its celebration of National Women’s Month. The members of the two varsity teams were then asked to craft their own messages of support. These messages will be used in banners that will be displayed along the UP University Avenue and the UP Academic Oval. Dr. Eloi Hernandez, one of the convenors of the campaign, emphasized that, “The need to convene the entire UP System to discuss these matters and to come up with a strong platform towards anti-sexual harassment and anti-violence against women is a must.” Bright Akhuete of the UP Basketball team asserted, “No means No. That’s plain and simple. There is a need to respect the rights of the women and the rights of the LGBTQI community, not just inside UP, but also within our own homes and communities. Respect for diversity in gender leads to a violence-free community.” “We need to start cultivating a culture where [people]…. should be more aware of the diversity and complexity of… gender. Awareness leads to understanding. Understanding leads to respect. Respect leads to collaborative efforts in creating a safe space for everyone,” said Mika Sales and Maegan Cabrera from the UP Varsity Pep Squad. Also pledging his support, Dean Kiko Diaz of the UP College of Human Kinetics professed, “Definitely, we in the College of Human Kinetics will support and continue to support all efforts to protect women and any gender against all forms of violence and bullying… We have many female varsity athletes in the college, particularly those who are performing, being subjected to cat calling. We cannot condone those kinds of acts.” For Dr. Nathalie Africa-Verceles, Director of the UP Center for Women’s and Gender Studies, this campaign serves as “a strong reiteration of the long-standing commitment of the University of the Philippines to campuses that are safe from any form of gender-based violence and a way of urging all members of the UP community to unite and work together to end VAW.” (Vince Hermoso, UP Center for Women’s and Gender Studies) Related: UPD launches “Sayaw ng Paghihimagsik” on International Women’s Day 2019 |
https://up.edu.ph/chk-to-train-unisa-students/ | CHK to train UNISA students – University of the Philippines | CHK to train UNISA students CHK to train UNISA students May 7, 2019 | Written by Arlyn VCD Palisoc Romualdo The first batch of Bachelor of Exercise and Sport Science majors from the University of South Australia (UniSA) School of Health Sciences to undergo the internship program by the UP Diliman (UPD) College of Human Kinetics with UniSA and UPD officials, faculty, and staff (Photo by Misael Bacani, UP MPRO) The UP Diliman (UPD) College of Human Kinetics (CHK) has entered into a memorandum of agreement with the University of South Australia (UniSA) to conduct an internship program for UniSA sports science majors. The agreement was signed on April 25. Seated from left: UP Diliman College of Human Kinetics (CHK) Dean Francis Carlos Diaz and UP Diliman Chancellor Michael Tan sign copies of the memorandum of agreement as Prof. Kevin Norton and Mike Hartland of the University of South Australia (UniSA) look on. With them in this photo are CHK faculty members and UniSA students. (Photo by Misael Bacani, UP MPRO) The program consists of 40 hours of training over a period of ten days. It will be conducted in April of each year until Academic Year 2020-2021. The first batch of UniSA interns witnessed the formalization of the program through the memorandum signing at the office of UPD Chancellor Michael Tan. CHK Dean Francis Carlos Diaz revealed that the current program is just the initial phase of the College’s partnership with UniSA. “I am optimistic about the outcome of this program,” he said, adding that CHK looked forward to eventually sending their sports science majors for training in UniSA. Top photo: UP President Danilo Concepcion talks to the delegation from the University of South Australia (UniSA). Bottom photo: UP President Danilo Concepcion (seated, middle) with UP Diliman officials and faculty, and UniSA faculty members and students (Photos by Misael Bacani, UP MPRO) |
https://up.edu.ph/uplb-choral-ensembles-30th-anniversary-celebration-empowering-communities-one-song-at-a-time/ | UPLB Choral Ensemble’s 30th Anniversary Celebration: Empowering Communities, One Song at a Time – University of the Philippines | UPLB Choral Ensemble’s 30th Anniversary Celebration: Empowering Communities, One Song at a Time UPLB Choral Ensemble’s 30th Anniversary Celebration: Empowering Communities, One Song at a Time September 30, 2021 | Posted by UP Media and Public Relations Office Beautiful choral music, a celebration of history, and service to the community all combine in the University of the Philippines Los Baños Choral Ensemble’s (UPLBCE) upcoming concert, Iridescence: The 30th Anniversary Celebration. The month-long virtual concert series will begin on October 1, Friday, 7:00 p.m. with an opening ceremony, and will be held every Saturday of the month of October, also at 7:00 p.m. The UPLBCE, one of the University’s most renowned performing groups, began when several UP Rural High School Glee Club performers decided to pursue their love of choral singing throughout their college years. Thirty years later, the UPLBCE continues to honor this legacy of song and service by empowering communities, one song at a time. Through Iridescence: The 30th Anniversary Celebration, the UPLBCE shifts the spotlight to reveal and honor the people who have supported them and served as “luminous iridescent lights” throughout the years. The UP community and the general public are invited to be part of the choir’s anniversary concert performances, which will be devoted to “all our friends, fans, family, members, mentors, and partners who have inspired, encouraged and helped the choir bring out our iridescence for the past three decades,” as the group’s press release stated. In keeping with their objective of empowering communities through choral music, for their October 16 performance, the UPLBCE is partnering with the initiatives of the UP System’s Kaagapay sa Pag-aaral ng mga Iskolar ng Bayan (Kaagapay UP) under the aegis of the UP Padayon Public Service Office. The Kaagapay UP is a fund-raising campaign whose goal is to provide more than 5,600 UP students with laptop computers, gadgets and Internet connectivity to help them complete their UP education through remote learning. Other beneficiaries of the concert are UPLB Agapay, the disaster response task force that serves the UPLB community, and Stairway Foundation, Inc., which strives to reach and protect abused and neglected children. The schedule of UPLBCE’s anniversary celebration performances are as follows: October 1, 2021 – Opening Ceremony This week officially marks the start of UPLBCE’s 30th anniversary celebration. Get to know the group’s history and what to expect for the month-long event. October 9, 2021 – Empowering our Friends and Families Acknowledging the UPLBCE’s families and friends who have supported the group throughout their journey, as well as those individuals and institutions who have assisted the group towards achieving its goals. October 16, 2021 – Empowering International Relations A fundraising concert featuring the UPLBCE’s performances from previous competitions; with special participation of our fellow choirs from Asia and Europe. This will be for the benefit of Kaagapay UP, Agapay UPLB and Stairway Foundation. October 23, 2021 – Empowering Artists Giving the spotlight to the different artists and partner organizations who have grown with the choir over the years, and who have also supported the group in its endeavors through their artistic contributions. October 30, 2021 – Moving Forward This week will be the culminating activity for the month-long anniversary celebration. It will feature the members and the present conductor of the UPLBCE, and their dreams for the group moving forward. The live stream will also serve as the premiere for the UPLBCE’s latest virtual choir performances, together with UPLBCE’s alumni and current singers. For more information about the UPLBCE’s month-long celebration, download the primer here. [UPLB Choral Ensemble Iridescence (Event Primer)] You may also visit their Facebook page or contact the UPLBCE’s Marketing and Sponsorship Head, Earl Joseph Fria, at mktgspon30th.uplbchoralensemble@gmail.com. |
https://up.edu.ph/kaagapay-sa-pag-aaral-ng-mga-iskolar-ng-bayan-faqs/ | Kaagapay sa Pag-aaral ng mga Iskolar ng Bayan FAQs – University of the Philippines | Kaagapay sa Pag-aaral ng mga Iskolar ng Bayan FAQs Kaagapay sa Pag-aaral ng mga Iskolar ng Bayan FAQs August 28, 2020 | Posted by UP Media and Public Relations Office Support the Iskolar ng Bayan and give them the opportunity to acquire the tools necessary in the shift to remote learning. Become a Kaagapay today! Visit https://kaagapay.up.edu.ph for more details. Are you a donor or a student who would like to know more about the Kaagapay sa Pag-aaral ng mga Iskolar ng Bayan (#KaagapayUP) fundraising program? The Kaagapay Secretariat brings you the responses to Frequently Asked Questions. Padayon! For further concerns, send us an email through kaagapay@up.edu.ph or contact us via Viber (0916 723 1200) or Telegram (@KaagapayUP). |
https://up.edu.ph/kaagapay-sa-pag-aaral-ng-iskolar-ng-bayan/ | Kaagapay sa Pag-aaral ng Iskolar ng Bayan – University of the Philippines | Kaagapay sa Pag-aaral ng Iskolar ng Bayan Kaagapay sa Pag-aaral ng Iskolar ng Bayan July 21, 2020 | Posted by UP Media and Public Relations Office Our students need your help. COVID-19 has changed the way we live, the way we work, and the way we teach and learn. We need to be flexible and adapt, but most are finding it hard because of the technological requirements these uncertain and rapidly evolving times have imposed upon us. Because of this crisis, more than 5,600 UP students are in danger of not being able to continue their education. They cannot afford the technology and tools that have now become integral to learning. Around 1,600 of them have no resources at all. For at least 4,000 more, sustained use of technologies is no longer feasible because the pandemic has rendered their households financially vulnerable. The University requests your support in enabling these Iskolar ng Bayan to move forward and ultimately reach their goal of graduating. We are asking you to be their kaagapay. No other Filipino word best describes the role you will be playing in the lives of our students. Ka-, a prefix that means to be a part of something, and agapay, which means support or assistance. To be a kaagapayis to stand by them and with them, sharing their burden to ease their struggles. Through our fundraising and resource generation campaign, Kaagapay sa Pag-aaral ng Iskolar ng Bayan or #KaagapayUP, your generosity will equip financially-challenged students with the computers or laptops and internet connectivity they need to pursue their degrees. You may donate pre-owned or brand new laptops and computers with the minimum specifications via designated drop-off centers in UP campuses. You may give monetary gifts in cash, check, or electronic funds, through over-the-counter or digital transactions using our secured payment gateways via http://kaagapay.up.edu.ph. With your donations, our students will receive the computers or laptops and internet connectivity they need toward earning their degrees. For details, you may get in touch with the Kaagapay secretariat at 0916 723 1200 or kaagapay@up.edu.ph. Be the helping hand that empowers our students to achieve their dreams and go on to make meaningful contributions to society and humanity. Maging kaagapay sa pag-aaral ng Iskolar ng Bayan. |
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