02/06/2026
On June 1, 2026, the On-Boarding Program for Bachelor of Arts in Public Administration (BAPA) students served as a meaningful introduction to the values, competencies, and responsibilities expected of future public administrators. Bringing together experienced practitioners and educators, the activity highlighted essential lessons that go beyond academic knowledge and prepare students for the realities of public service.
The program opened with a discussion on work ethics and professionalism by Mr. Mike Bernardo, JD. He emphasized that while technical skills can be taught and developed over time, attitude and character remain the true foundations of professional success. Integrity, adaptability, and a willingness to learn are qualities that allow individuals to thrive in any workplace. Students were reminded that good habits, respect for others, and accountability are valuable assets that shape one's professional identity. He also raised awareness about workplace issues such as sexual harassment by presenting possible scenarios that students may encounter during their internship or future employment. Through these examples, students were reminded to recognize inappropriate behavior, understand professional boundaries, and know the proper actions to take when faced with such situations. The discussion reinforced the importance of maintaining a safe, respectful, and ethical working environment where dignity and professionalism are upheld at all times.
Prof. Greza Mae B. Zaspa-Herreras, MALL, then discussed effective office communication, particularly business letter writing. She stressed that communication should be clear, concise, and purposeful. A well-written letter is not measured by complex vocabulary but by its ability to convey information accurately and professionally. Understanding proper formats, appropriate language, and common mistakes enables future public administrators to communicate with confidence and credibility.
Another important session focused on the employability of BAPA graduates. Prof. Julio O. Evardone highlighted the wide range of career opportunities available to graduates of the program. Beyond positions in local government units, public administration graduates can pursue meaningful careers in non-government organizations, tourism, energy, development agencies, and other sectors that require leadership, policy understanding, and organizational skills. This perspective encouraged students to view their degree as a gateway to diverse opportunities and broader societal impact.
The discussion on the Anti-Red Tape Authority (ARTA) and Republic Act No. 11032, or the Ease of Doing Business and Efficient Government Service Delivery Act, reinforced the importance of efficiency, transparency, and accountability in public service. Mr. Eduardo L. Ocaรฑa, JD, DPA, explained that even student interns can apply these principles by delivering services responsibly, respecting timelines, and promoting citizen-centered governance. The session highlighted how simplifying processes and eliminating unnecessary delays contribute to better public trust and improved government performance.
The final session, led by Mr. Jerald C. Erivera, DPA, centered on leadership and integrity, emphasizing the role of future public administrators as ethical leaders. Integrity was defined as a commitment to honesty, consistency, and strong moral principles. Students were encouraged to demonstrate professionalism through proper appearance, reliability, tact, responsibility, initiative, and a positive attitude toward learning. Equally important were the ability to build rapport with colleagues, establish healthy relationships with clients, and continuously develop knowledge and skills. The session underscored that leadership is not merely about authority but about earning trust through responsible actions and ethical conduct.
And lastly, a message of support from the esteemed university president was followed, in which she stated the importance of the internship in the curriculum, where it signifies the learning and theoretical knowledge to be applied practically, enabling the student to be exposed to real-world settings, practicing what they have learned in their subjects. President Cherry I. Ultra, PhD, also emphasizes the importance of student welfare in advancing and promoting not just a university entrepreneurial institution but also a world-class university.
Bachelor of Public Administration (BPA) Internship Onboarding Program concluded with an inspiring closing message from Dr. Ma. Mercedes G. Sosa. In her remarks, she revisited the key insights shared by the resource speakers throughout the program, emphasizing the importance of integrity and professionalism in the workplace, even for students who are only beginning their internship journey.
Dr. Sosa reminded the interns that they are expected to uphold ethical standards and demonstrate responsible behavior as they enter their respective offices and agencies. She stressed that professionalism should be reflected not only in the quality of work performed but also in the way interns interact with colleagues, supervisors, and the public.
Furthermore, she underscored the importance of adaptability, noting that interns will encounter new environments, responsibilities, and workplace cultures that require continuous adjustment. According to Dr. Sosa, the ability to adapt and learn from these experiences is an essential part of professional growth.
She also highlighted that character remains one of the most important qualities in the workplace. While academic knowledge provides a strong foundation, she explained that it becomes meaningful only when applied effectively in real-life situations. She encouraged the interns to translate the lessons learned in the classroom into practical actions and to embody the values expected of future public administrators.
The success of the onboarding program was also made possible through the collective efforts of the Bachelor of Arts in Public Administration officers and the various committees who worked diligently behind the scenes. Their dedication to planning, organizing, and coordinating the event ensured its smooth and successful implementation. The BPA community expressed its appreciation for their hard work, commitment, and service in making the program a meaningful experience for all participants.
Overall, the onboarding program was more than a seminar activity; it was a call to action for students to embrace excellence, integrity, and service. The insights shared by the speakers provided a clear vision of what it means to become a competent public administratorโone who communicates effectively, works with professionalism, serves with accountability, and leads with integrity. As future public servants, BAPA students are challenged to transform these lessons into daily practice and become agents of positive change in their communities and beyond.