UP Manila for the SDGs

UP Manila–PGH Ophthalmology Book Receives 2026 Outstanding Book Award

The University of the Philippines Manila College of Medicine and the Philippine General Hospital Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences celebrate a major academic milestone following the recognition of Pediatric Ophthalmology and Strabismus: A Comprehensive Guide to Diagnosis and Management as a recipient of the 2026 Outstanding Book Award from the National Academy of Science and Technology, Philippines.

The award recognizes the publication’s significant contribution to clinical knowledge and practice in pediatric ophthalmology and strabismus, serving as an essential reference for diagnosis and management in the field. The book was edited by Dr. Alvina Pauline D. Santiago and Dr. Marissa N. Valbuena, with associate editors Dr. Michelle D. Lingan, Dr. Roland Joseph D. Tan, Dr. James Abraham B. Lee, and Dr. Andrea Kristina F. Monzon-Pajarillo, along with the broader contributions of specialists from the UP Manila–Philippine General Hospital community.

This recognition underscores the sustained commitment of the UP Manila health sciences community to advancing scholarly excellence, clinical innovation, and high-quality medical education that directly contributes to improved patient care and specialist training in the Philippines.

SDG Contributions

SDG 3: Good Health and Well-Being – Advances clinical knowledge and improves standards in pediatric eye care, contributing to better diagnosis and treatment outcomes.
SDG 4: Quality Education – Strengthens medical education through authoritative, peer-recognized scholarly work used in training and clinical practice.
SDG 9: Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure – Promotes innovation in medical knowledge production and strengthens academic infrastructure in ophthalmology.
SDG 16: Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions – Supports institutional excellence through recognized scholarly output and evidence-based clinical practice.
SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals – Reflects collaboration among faculty, clinicians, and specialists within UP Manila and the Philippine General Hospital in producing impactful academic work.

UP College of Public Health Reflects on Centennial Legacy of Public Health Leadership

As the University of the Philippines Manila College of Public Health prepares for its centennial year in 2027, Dean Fernando Garcia Jr. reflected on the theme, “UP Manila and the Continuing Legacy of Public Health Leadership.” The reflection underscored the College’s enduring role in shaping public health practice, education, and research in the Philippines, highlighting both its historical contributions and its continuing mandate in strengthening health systems.

Dean Garcia emphasized that the milestone is not only a moment to recognize the achievements of past generations but also a call for the present academic community to actively participate in shaping the future of public health. The message reinforces the College’s commitment to advancing leadership in health education, research, and service as it approaches 100 years of dedicated public health work.

Through this reflection, the University of the Philippines Manila and the UP College of Public Health reaffirm their continuing mission to build resilient, equitable, and responsive public health systems for the country.

📷 Jericho Paolo Mabansag

UP Manila Undergoes ASEAN University Network–Quality Assurance Assessment to Strengthen Academic Excellence

The University of the Philippines Manila welcomed a panel of international assessors for the 521st ASEAN University Network–Quality Assurance (AUN-QA) Program Assessment, marking a comprehensive evaluation of its core health and science academic programs. The assessment covered four flagship programs: the Bachelor of Science in Biology under the College of Arts and Sciences, the Bachelor of Science in Pharmacy and Bachelor of Science in Pharmaceutical Sciences under the College of Pharmacy, and the Doctor of Medicine program under the College of Medicine.

The evaluation provided an important opportunity for UP Manila to further strengthen its academic standards and quality assurance systems in alignment with regional benchmarks. As part of the institutional engagement, Chancellor Michael Tee emphasized the university’s broader commitment to higher education development beyond its own campus, highlighting UP Manila’s role in sharing insights and best practices with other state universities, colleges, and private institutions to help improve educational frameworks across the country.

Through this assessment process, UP Manila reinforces its position as a leading institution in health and science education in the region, continuously working to enhance program quality, academic excellence, and institutional impact.

SOURCE: https://www.upm.edu.ph/cpt_news/up-manila-frames-aun-qa-assessment-as-a-catalyst-for-national-leadership/?fbclid=IwY2xjawSUnAlleHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETExampkTWhVN2x5S1A1dE00c3J0YwZhcHBfaWQQMjIyMDM5MTc4ODIwMDg5MgABHlG_qkY_VeFEljRW3egXiXUh1ZJsIYAoOnTn3mDL5-xFmziaZ-YG4aIF1U4g_aem_ZmFrZWR1bW15MTZieXRlcw

Photos by: Sarah Hazel Moces S. Pulumbarit & Charmaine A. Lingdas

SDG Contributions

SDG 4: Quality Education – Strengthens academic program quality through international quality assurance evaluation and continuous improvement of health and science curricula.
SDG 3: Good Health and Well-Being – Enhances the quality of training for future health professionals, contributing to better healthcare services and outcomes.
SDG 9: Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure – Supports institutional development through quality assurance systems and alignment with regional academic standards.
SDG 16: Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions – Promotes accountable, transparent, and internationally benchmarked academic governance.
SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals – Demonstrates collaboration with the ASEAN University Network and engagement with international assessors in strengthening higher education quality systems.

UP Manila Strengthens Evidence-Based Admissions Research Through UP Social Scientist and Scholar Appointments

For the period 2023–2026, the University of the Philippines Manila appointed six faculty members as UP Social Scientists and UP Scholars, reinforcing its commitment to strengthening research capacity in higher education policy and admissions systems.

For the 2023–2025 term, Dr. Nina Consorcia T. Castillo-Carandang of the College of Medicine and Dr. Leonardo R. Estacio Jr. of the College of Arts and Sciences were appointed as UP Social Scientist II and UP Scholar II. Mary Dorothy dL Jose of the College of Arts and Sciences also served under the program as UP Social Scientist I and UP Scholar I. For the 2024–2026 term, Chester Antonio C. Arcilla and Bernardo Jr. N. Caslib of the College of Arts and Sciences, together with Mary Ann J. Ladia of the National Institutes of Health, were appointed as UP Social Scientist I and UP Scholar I.

Through these appointments, UP Manila strengthened its capacity to undertake admissions-related and policy-oriented research. The initiative supports the generation of evidence that can inform more equitable, data-driven, and effective student selection processes across its academic units, contributing to continuous improvement in academic governance and institutional decision-making.

Strengthening Diagnostic Imaging Capacity Through Mammography Training for UP-PGH Radiographers

To strengthen the advancement of diagnostic imaging capabilities in the country, the University of the Philippines Manila, through its Office of International and Local Linkages, partnered with Siemens Healthcare Inc and the Philippine General Hospital to conduct a Mammography Training Program for UP-PGH radiographers.

The training program is designed for radiographers with limited experience in mammography, as well as those seeking refresher training. It aims to strengthen competencies in basic mammography, tomosynthesis, and stereotactic biopsy. The course covers key areas including mammography history and technology, standard imaging views, physics of full-field mammography systems, stereotactic biopsy procedures, tomosynthesis, image quality assessment, identification of image artifacts, patient positioning, and troubleshooting of image quality issues. Through structured lectures and applied learning, participants are equipped to enhance diagnostic accuracy and improve patient care in breast imaging services.

A second batch composed of radiologic technologists and radiology residents is scheduled to undergo the same training from June 20 to 26, 2026, further expanding the reach and impact of the program in strengthening diagnostic imaging capacity within the health system.

SOURCE: https://www.upm.edu.ph/cpt_news/advancing-womens-health-up-manila-and-siemens-healthcare-elevates-mammography-skills-of-philippine-general-hospital-radiographers/?fbclid=IwY2xjawSUmhpleHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETFCeUNyNE9YeXROTVpQd1llc3J0YwZhcHBfaWQQMjIyMDM5MTc4ODIwMDg5MgABHgSkvNQRbQXFApNATh685WQQ8y71iWxzzf5sE4bT740kzYnsdrcsh0lrYwZK_aem_tGDwrGMvOiS55RYLhDPwfg

Photos courtesy of: Siemens Healthcare Inc.

SDG Contributions

SDG 3: Good Health and Well-Being – Enhances diagnostic accuracy and early detection of breast conditions through improved mammography competencies among radiographers and radiology trainees.
SDG 4: Quality Education – Provides specialized professional training and continuing education for healthcare workers in advanced diagnostic imaging techniques.
SDG 9: Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure – Strengthens healthcare infrastructure by upgrading technical capacity in medical imaging technologies such as tomosynthesis and stereotactic biopsy.
SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals – Demonstrates effective collaboration among UP Manila, UP-PGH, and Siemens Healthcare Inc. in advancing medical training and health system capacity-building.

Instructor Ryan E. Machado Recognized as UP Artist II in Film and Theatre Arts

Instructor Ryan E. Machado of the Department of Arts and Communication has been conferred the distinction of UP Artist II in Film and Theatre Arts under the University of the Philippines Arts Productivity System. The recognition honors his outstanding artistic contributions and his sustained creative excellence in both film and theatre, affirming his standing within the University’s community of distinguished artists.

A storyteller across screen and stage, Instructor Ryan’s body of work includes the full-length films “Huling Palabas” and “Raging”, the Virgin Labfest 2025 entry “Don’t Meow for Me, Catriona”, and the Palanca Award–winning one-act play “Huling Haraya nina Ischia at Emeteria”. His creative practice reflects a strong commitment to narrative craft, performance, and the development of Philippine contemporary theatre and cinema.

This distinction highlights his role in advancing artistic excellence within the University and the broader cultural landscape. Through his work, Instructor Ryan continues to inspire students, fellow artists, and the creative community while contributing to the enrichment of Filipino storytelling in the arts.

The Department of Arts and Communication is proud to share that our very own Mr. Ryan E. Machado has been conferred the distinction of UP Artist II in Film and Theatre Arts under the UP Arts Productivity System (APS). This achievement celebrates Sir Ryan’s outstanding contributions to the arts and the distinguished reputation he has built throughout his career.

A storyteller across both screen and stage, Sir Ryan's celebrated body of work includes the full-length films "Huling Palabas" and "Raging", the Virgin Labfest 2025 entry "Don’t Meow for Me, Catriona", and his Palanca Award–winning one-act play "Huling Haraya nina Ischia at Emeteria".

Congratulations, Sir Ryan. Your artistry continues to inspire us and bring honor to the department. Mabuhay!

UP CAMP Achieves PAASCU Level I Accreditation and 100% Licensure Exam Performance

The University of the Philippines College of Allied Medical Professions celebrates major academic milestones with the successful attainment of Level I Accreditation from the Philippine Accrediting Association of Schools, Colleges, and Universities for its BS Occupational Therapy, BS Physical Therapy, and BS Speech Pathology programs. This recognition affirms the college’s sustained commitment to quality assurance, academic excellence, and continuous program improvement across its allied health disciplines.

In the same period, UP CAMP also recorded a 100% passing rate in both the June 2026 Physical Therapy and Occupational Therapy Licensure Examinations, with all examinees successfully passing and multiple graduates ranking among the top performers nationwide. These achievements reflect the strong academic preparation, dedicated mentorship, and collective efforts of faculty, students, alumni, and institutional partners in producing competent and service-oriented health professionals.

Together, these milestones highlight UP CAMP’s role in advancing excellence in allied health education and strengthening the pipeline of skilled professionals who contribute to national healthcare delivery and rehabilitation services.

SOURCE: https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1DjMQXFY5Z/

🔗 Read more about our PAASCU Accreditation here: https://camp.upm.edu.ph/archives/6558

SDG Contributions

SDG 3: Good Health and Well-Being – Strengthened the training and licensure performance of allied health professionals who will contribute to improved rehabilitation and healthcare services in the country.
SDG 4: Quality Education – Demonstrated excellence in academic program quality assurance through PAASCU accreditation and outstanding licensure examination performance.
SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals – Reflected collaboration among academic units, accrediting bodies, clinical training partners, and stakeholders in strengthening health professions education.

UP Manila Strengthens Internationalization Through ERASMUS+ Staff Training in Spain

Ms. Abegail G. Lim of the Office of International and Local Linkages (OILL) represented UP Manila in the 36th ERASMUS+ Staff Training Week (STW) titled “Navigating Internationalization: Tools and Practices for International Relations Officers (IROs)”, held at the Universidad de Granada, Spain from May 11 to 15, 2026. The training program gathered international participants for a series of workshops, expert talks, and cultural activities designed to strengthen the professional competencies of non-teaching staff, particularly those engaged in international relations and institutional partnerships.

Through the training, participants gained exposure to best practices in university internationalization, including operational approaches used by key offices and services in higher education institutions. The program also provided opportunities for knowledge exchange and networking, enhancing institutional capacities for global engagement and collaboration.

The participation of UP Manila in this initiative underscores its commitment to strengthening international linkages, improving administrative competencies, and advancing global collaboration in higher education and research. By investing in staff development and cross-border learning opportunities, the university continues to enhance its role in fostering internationally engaged and responsive academic institutions.

SOURCE: https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1DE9i9rixr/

SDG Contributions

SDG 4: Quality Education – Supported professional development of university staff through international training focused on higher education administration and global engagement.
SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth – Strengthened workforce competencies by enhancing skills in international relations, institutional coordination, and higher education management.
SDG 9: Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure – Improved institutional capacity for global collaboration and knowledge exchange in higher education systems.
SDG 16: Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions – Reinforced institutional effectiveness through exposure to governance practices and internationalization strategies in universities.
SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals – Advanced international collaboration through ERASMUS+ and partnerships with global higher education institutions, strengthening UP Manila’s global engagement.

Inoblasyon 2026 Highlights UP Innovation in Health and Biomedical Research

The University of the Philippines successfully concluded “Inoblasyon: The UP Innovation Summit 2026”, held on May 5–6, 2026 at the SMX Convention Center Aura in Bonifacio Global City, Taguig City. The summit marked the formal launch of the UP System Office of the Vice President for Research and Innovation (OVPRI) and introduced eight specialized innovation clusters aimed at addressing national challenges in health, biotechnology, digital governance, and other priority sectors.

A key feature of the summit was the Invention Disclosure Awarding Ceremony, which recognized researchers whose work has contributed to the advancement of intellectual property protection, technology transfer, and research commercialization. Among the awardees under the Digital Health and Biomedical Devices cluster was the GeneHawa Team, a collaborative group of innovators composed of faculty members from UP College of Public Health and UP Diliman, together with CPH alumni who developed the innovation during their student years. The team was recognized for their development of a molecular diagnostic tool for neglected tropical diseases, underscoring the role of university-led research in addressing pressing public health concerns.

The summit highlighted the importance of strengthening the innovation ecosystem through research collaboration, institutional support, and multi-sectoral partnerships. By advancing mechanisms that move research from discovery to application, the event reinforced UP’s commitment to producing impact-driven innovations that contribute to national development and public welfare.

SOURCE: https://www.facebook.com/share/p/18htxdAfhX/

SDG Contributions

SDG 3: Good Health and Well-Being – Promoted the development of innovative health technologies, including molecular diagnostic tools aimed at addressing neglected tropical diseases and improving disease detection and control.
SDG 9: Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure – Strengthened research-to-innovation pathways through intellectual property protection, technology transfer, and support for scalable, impact-driven scientific solutions.
SDG 4: Quality Education – Recognized and supported the contributions of researchers and student innovators, reinforcing a culture of research excellence and experiential learning in higher education.
SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals – Advanced collaboration among universities, research institutions, government agencies, and innovators to strengthen the national innovation ecosystem and promote translational research for societal benefit.

Project Lingap Promotes Community Health Through Service and Collaboration

The UP Nursing Student Council, together with student volunteers from the UP College of Nursing, participated in Project Lingap, a community medical mission spearheaded by UP Sandigan on May 23, 2026. Conducted in partnership with various organizations and healthcare stakeholders, the initiative aimed to bring essential healthcare services and health education closer to community members while fostering volunteerism and social responsibility among future healthcare professionals.

Through medical consultations, health teaching sessions, and collaborative outreach activities, the mission provided opportunities for healthcare professionals, students, and community members to work together in promoting health and well-being. The activity reinforced the importance of preventive healthcare, health literacy, and community engagement in addressing local health needs and improving access to health information and services.

Project Lingap highlights the UP College of Nursing students’ commitment to compassionate care, community service, and intersectoral collaboration. By working alongside partner organizations and volunteers, the initiative contributed to healthier communities while providing meaningful experiential learning opportunities for nursing students and strengthening community-centered healthcare efforts.

𝙄𝙣 𝙋𝙖𝙧𝙩𝙣𝙚𝙧𝙨𝙝𝙞𝙥 𝙬𝙞𝙩𝙝:
UP Sandigan
Watsons Alagang Pangkalusugan
𝘾𝙤-𝙥𝙧𝙚𝙨𝙚𝙣𝙩𝙚𝙙 𝙗𝙮:
Immuniplus
CRISDY-NA Drug Corporation
Ninya Botika
𝙎𝙥𝙚𝙘𝙞𝙖𝙡 𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙣𝙠𝙨 𝙩𝙤:
FIAT Insights and Analytics
ACE Rx Learning Specialist
Lotus Embroidery
📷: Cayyean Jazz C. Cinco, College of Pharmacy

SOURCE: https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1F7H7gGpbu/

SDG Contributions

SDG 3: Good Health and Well-Being – Provided community members with access to health consultations, health education, and preventive healthcare information to support improved health outcomes.
SDG 4: Quality Education – Offered experiential learning opportunities for nursing students through community-based service and health promotion activities.
SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities – Helped improve access to healthcare services and health information for community members who may face barriers to healthcare.
SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities – Strengthened community health and well-being through volunteer-driven outreach and public health engagement.
SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals – Demonstrated collaboration among student organizations, healthcare partners, private sector supporters, and community stakeholders in advancing health promotion and community development initiatives.