UP Manila for the SDGs

20/08/2026

UP Manila Dean Mac Ardy Gloria Receives Young Pharmacist Award

The University of the Philippines Manila (UP Manila) congratulates Mac Ardy Gloria, RPh, PhD, Associate Professor and Dean of the UP Manila College of Pharmacy, for being recognized as a Young Pharmacist Awardee by the Federation of Asian Pharmaceutical Associations (FAPA). The award recognizes his contributions to the field of pharmacy and his continuing leadership and service in academe and the community. Gloria’s recognition highlights UP Manila’s commitment to advancing pharmacy education and strengthening the role of pharmacists in health care and community service.

Malugod na pagbati kay Mac Ardy Gloria, RPh, PhD, Kawaksing Propesor at Dekano ng Kolehiyo ng Parmasiya, sa kaniyang pagkilala bilang Young Pharmacist Awardee ng Federation of Asian Pharmaceutical Associations.

Ipinagmamalaki ng Unibersidad ng Pilipinas Manila ang kaniyang natatanging ambag sa larangan ng parmasiya, gayundin ang kaniyang patuloy na pamumuno at paglilingkod sa akademya at komunidad.

20/08/2026

Dr. Marita V. Tolentino-Reyes Receives UPAA Lifetime Distinguished Achievement Award

Dr. Marita V. Tolentino-Reyes, former Chancellor of the University of the Philippines Manila (UP Manila) and professor emerita of the UP College of Medicine (UPCM), received the UPAA Lifetime Distinguished Achievement Award in recognition of her distinguished career in medical education, research, ethics, and health policy.

Dr. Reyes earned her Doctor of Medicine degree from UP Manila in 1964 and began her academic career as an instructor at the Department of Biochemistry of the University of the East Ramon Magsaysay Memorial Medical Center in 1965. She joined the UPCM in 1975 and served as a professor of Biochemistry until her retirement in 2007. During her tenure, she established a laboratory for screening metabolic diseases in newborns and advanced the use of DNA hybridization for detecting Hepatitis B virus in serum. She also promoted gender sensitivity in medical education and, with Dr. Cecilia V. Tomas, helped establish the Bioethics program in the undergraduate medical curriculum in 1995.

Dr. Reyes served as Dean of the UPCM from 1988–1991, Faculty Regent in 2001, and Chancellor of UP Manila from 2002–2005. She also held key leadership roles in national health research and ethics, including chairing the National Ethics Committee from 1997–2016, the Philippine Health Research Ethics Board from 2006–2010, and the DOH/DOST Health Technology Assessment Council from 2019–2023. She continues to serve in various committees under the Health Technology Assessment Council, National Ethics Committee, and Philippine Health Research Ethics Board.

Her contributions to research have also been recognized by the National Research Council of the Philippines (NRCP). She became a regular NRCP member in 1985 and received the NRCP Achievement Award in Medicine in 2005. On March 13, 2026, she received the NRCP Member Emeritus Award during the Council’s 93rd General Membership Assembly at the Philippine International Convention Center.

Dr. Reyes’ UPAA recognition highlights a career marked by sustained contributions to medical education, biomedical research, ethics, health technology assessment, and public service.

20/08/2026

Dr. Maria Julieta V. Germar Receives Outstanding Medical Teacher Award

Dr. Maria Julieta V. Germar, Laboratory Director of the University of the Philippines College of Medicine (UPCM), received the UPMASA Missouri-Southern Illinois Chapter Outstanding Medical Teacher Award for Academic Year 2025–2026 during the 117th UPCM Commencement Exercises on August 13, 2026, at the UP Diliman Theater in Quezon City. The recognition honors Dr. Germar’s dedication and commitment to medical education and her contribution to shaping the next generation of health professionals.

20/08/2026

UP Manila Showcases Health Innovations at PhilMedical Expo 2026

The University of the Philippines Manila (UP Manila), through the Technology Transfer and Business Development Office (TTBDO), showcased the University’s health innovations and technologies at the PhilMedical Expo 2026, held from August 19–21, 2026, at the SMX Convention Center in Pasay City. Through booth nos. 39–40, TTBDO featured selected UP Manila innovations and provided a platform to promote the University’s research outputs, technologies, and opportunities for technology transfer and commercialization. The participation highlighted UP Manila’s continuing efforts to translate research and innovation into technologies that can contribute to improving health and strengthening partnerships with industry and other stakeholders.

SDG Contributions:

SDG 3 – Good Health and Well-being: Promoted UP Manila health innovations and technologies aimed at addressing health needs and contributing to improved health outcomes.

SDG 9 – Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure: Supported the development, promotion, and potential commercialization of UP Manila research outputs and technologies, strengthening the link between academic research and innovation.

SDG 17 – Partnerships for the Goals: Provided opportunities for UP Manila to engage with industry representatives, technology developers, and other stakeholders, supporting collaboration and the translation of university innovations into practical applications.

19/08/2026

Four UP Manila Academic Programs Pass 521st AUN-QA Program Assessment

The University of the Philippines Manila (UP Manila) successfully passed the 521st ASEAN University Network-Quality Assurance (AUN-QA) Programme Assessment with four academic programs: the Bachelor of Science in Biology, Bachelor of Science in Pharmacy, Bachelor of Science in Pharmaceutical Sciences, and Doctor of Medicine. Held from June 2–4, 2026, the assessment evaluated the programs under the AUN-QA Programme Level Version 4.0 Framework, covering expected learning outcomes, program structure and content, teaching and learning approaches, student assessment, academic staff, student support services, facilities and infrastructure, and outputs and outcomes.

The international peer assessment recognized the programs’ outcomes-based curricula, qualified academic staff, strong research culture, experiential learning opportunities, stakeholder participation, student support systems, and graduate competencies.

The assessors also recommended continued improvements in outcome-based education, program outcome measurement, stakeholder engagement, curriculum and learning resources, international benchmarking, and international mobility and collaboration. The assessment reflects UP Manila’s continuing efforts to strengthen academic quality and pursue continuous improvement through internationally recognized quality assurance standards.

Front and center of this massive institutional undertaking was a coordinated effort by the university’s academic leadership, led by CM Dean Charlotte Chiong, CAS Dean Ma. Teresa G. De Guzman, and CP Dean Mac Ardy Gloria, whose guidance anchored the preparatory work within their respective disciplines. This college-level dedication was matched by the strategic direction of the Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs Bernadette Heizel Reyes and the steering leadership of the Quality Assurance Office Director Bhabita Murjani, who managed the complex task of aligning institutional operations with rigorous international benchmarks.

READ MORE: https://www.upm.edu.ph/cpt_news/four-up-manila-academic-programs-pass-521st-aun-qa-program-assessment/

SDG Contributions:

SDG 3 – Good Health and Well-being: Strengthened the quality of health-related education by assessing the BS Pharmacy, BS Pharmaceutical Sciences, and Doctor of Medicine programs against international quality assurance standards, supporting the preparation of competent health professionals.

SDG 4 – Quality Education: Promoted continuous improvement in academic programs through international peer assessment of curricula, teaching and learning approaches, student assessment, faculty qualifications, student support, facilities, and learning outcomes.

SDG 10 – Reduced Inequalities: Supported equitable access to quality higher education by strengthening student support systems and academic programs designed to develop competencies across diverse student populations.

SDG 17 – Partnerships for the Goals: Advanced international academic collaboration through the participation of assessors from universities in Indonesia, Thailand, Malaysia, Vietnam, and Singapore, while encouraging greater international mobility, benchmarking, and collaboration.

19/08/2026

UP Manila Welcomes 1,239 Freshmen, Calls on New Iskolar ng Bayan to Learn and Serve

The University of the Philippines Manila welcomed 1,239 first-year students during its welcome ceremony on Aug. 17, 2026, calling on the new Iskolars ng Bayan to embrace university life, learn from diverse communities, and use their education in service of the Filipino people. The ceremony brought together freshmen from across UP Manila’s health sciences and allied programs and recognized the first batch of students in the new Bachelor of Science in Radiologic Technology program, the University’s first new bachelor’s degree program since 1967. University officials and speakers emphasized values of integrity, perseverance, excellence, compassion, and solidarity, while reminding students that a UP education carries a responsibility to the communities and people it is meant to serve. The program also recognized nine Oblation Scholars and encouraged the freshmen to fully engage with the University, care for themselves, contribute to the UP community, and eventually give back to the country.

SOURCE: https://www.upm.edu.ph/cpt_news/up-manila-welcomes-1239-freshmen-calls-on-new-iskolar-ng-bayan-to-learn-and-serve/

SDG Contributions:

SDG 3 – Good Health and Well-being: Promoted student well-being by encouraging freshmen to care for themselves, seek support when needed, and develop compassion as future health professionals and members of the community.

SDG 4 – Quality Education: Supported inclusive and transformative education by welcoming 1,239 freshmen, introducing them to UP Manila’s academic community and resources, and encouraging them to engage deeply with their education and diverse learning experiences.

SDG 10 – Reduced Inequalities: Emphasized the responsibility of Iskolars ng Bayan to understand the experiences of Filipinos from different communities and sectors and use their education to contribute to addressing social and health concerns.

SDG 17 – Partnerships for the Goals: Highlighted collaboration among students, faculty, administrators, and communities as an essential part of the UP Manila educational experience and its mission of public service.

19/08/2026

UP-PGH Marks 119 Years of Service, Excellence, and Compassion

The University of the Philippines-Philippine General Hospital (UP-PGH) opened its 119th Foundation Anniversary celebration on Aug. 17, 2026, under the theme “Kasaysayan, Kahusayan, Tungo sa Kaginhawaan.” The celebration honored more than a century of service in public health, medical education, training, and research, while reaffirming PGH’s commitment to providing quality and equitable health care to Filipinos. The program recognized the contributions of doctors, nurses, allied health professionals, administrative personnel, researchers, support staff, and other workers who keep the hospital operating. UP Manila Chancellor Michael Tee also emphasized that PGH’s impact extends beyond its patients through the health professionals trained at the institution who bring their knowledge and skills to communities across the country. The celebration likewise highlighted the importance of improving the welfare and working conditions of health workers, recognizing that kaginhawaan must extend to both patients and the people who care for them. Activities included a cupcake toast, wellness initiatives, and the opening of the PGH History Exhibit, which traces the development of the hospital’s departments and units and recognizes the people who have shaped its history.

SOURCE: https://www.upm.edu.ph/cpt_news/up-pgh-marks-119-years-of-service-excellence-and-compassion/

Photos by Sarah Hazel Moces S. Pulumbarit

SDG Contributions:

SDG 3 – Good Health and Well-being: Reinforced PGH’s commitment to quality and equitable health care while promoting the health and well-being of its health workers through wellness activities and efforts to improve working conditions.

SDG 10 – Reduced Inequalities: Highlighted PGH’s role in providing accessible health services to Filipinos and in training health professionals who extend health knowledge and services to communities across the country.

SDG 16 – Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions: Recognized the contributions of the diverse sectors of the hospital community and strengthened institutional commitment to responsible, equitable, and people-centered public service.

SDG 17 – Partnerships for the Goals: Brought together UP Manila leadership, PGH officials, health professionals, staff, service workers, and other members of the hospital community in advancing the institution’s continuing mission and public health mandate.

19/08/2026

CPH Advances Health Literacy Agenda Amid AI, Nutrition, and Environmental Challenges

The University of the Philippines Manila College of Public Health (CPH) brought together local and international public health experts on Aug. 14, 2026, for a special lecture on “Advancing Public Health Literacy in a Changing World: AI, Nutrition, and Environmental Health.” Held at the Vicente Tiu Lim Conference Room of the Henry Sy Sr. Hall and streamed via Zoom, the activity examined how health literacy can respond to emerging challenges in artificial intelligence (AI), nutrition, and climate and environmental health. Organized in partnership with the Asian Health Literacy Association (AHLA), the lecture also formed part of CPH’s preparations to host the 13th AHLA International Conference in the Philippines in 2027 as part of its centennial celebration. The discussions emphasized the need to move beyond access to information toward critical evaluation, informed decision-making, and action.

READ MORE: https://www.upm.edu.ph/cpt_news/cph-advances-health-literacy-agenda-amid-ai-nutrition-and-environmental-challenges/?fbclid=IwY2xjawTyN8BwZG9mBWV4dG4DYWVtAjEwAGJyaWQRMXVNZEdoVjU1TVA5bVNsWHVzcnRjBmFwcF9pZBAyMjIwMzkxNzg4MjAwODkyAAEeOwIxoPH9Hxfw-fEhO-ImqeZ2A5gb9gd6R53rKaK4S2QqTK3sfOwLmHTESVk_aem_fF5sneBwHnLxVYPrMKLv1w

Photos by Sarah Hazel Moces S. Pulumbarit

SDG Contributions:

SDG 3 – Good Health and Well-being: Strengthened public health literacy by addressing AI and digital health, nutrition, and climate and environmental health. The discussions highlighted the importance of evaluating health information, making informed decisions, and translating knowledge into healthier practices and climate-resilient actions.

SDG 4 – Quality Education: Promoted critical health and digital literacy by equipping participants with approaches to assess AI-generated information, evaluate nutrition information, and understand climate-related health risks.

SDG 17 – Partnerships for the Goals: Strengthened collaboration between UP Manila CPH and AHLA by bringing together academic and public health experts and supporting preparations for the 13th AHLA International Conference in 2027.

19/08/2026

UP Manila OSA Conducts Dormitory Orientation for New Tenants

Despite heavy rainfall, the University of the Philippines Manila Office of Student Affairs (OSA), headed by Director Odessa Joson, conducted a Dormitory Orientation on Aug. 17, 2026, for newly moved-in student tenants. The session introduced students to the dormitory’s rules and regulations, norms of conduct, and responsibilities throughout their stay. It also included a psychoeducation session and an information session on dormitory-related organizations to familiarize students with available support networks. Through the orientation, OSA helped students understand their responsibilities and access resources that contribute to a safe, respectful, and supportive dormitory community.

SOURCE: https://www.facebook.com/share/p/19H94CGAvm/

SDG Contributions:

SDG 3 – Good Health and Well-being: Promoted student well-being through psychoeducation and by providing information on support networks available to dormitory residents.

SDG 4 – Quality Education: Supported students’ learning environment by ensuring that dormitory residents are informed about policies, responsibilities, and resources that can help them navigate university life.

SDG 10 – Reduced Inequalities: Helped ensure that students living in the dormitory have access to information, guidance, and support services that promote an inclusive and supportive campus environment.

SDG 16 – Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions: Promoted responsible community participation by orienting students on rules, norms of conduct, and shared responsibilities for maintaining a safe and respectful dormitory community.

19/08/2026

UPLIFT Adolescents Engages DepEd School Division Offices on HPV Vaccination

The UPLIFT Adolescents team conducted progress meetings with the Department of Education (DepEd) Schools Division Offices (SDOs) of Antipolo, Mandaluyong, Manila, and Laguna to present the proposed HPV Vaccination Intervention Package and discuss areas of support for its implementation. The meetings focused on aligning the intervention with DepEd policies and processes, including parent engagement, coordination with school stakeholders, and implementation procedures. The discussions highlighted the importance of collaboration between health and education stakeholders in improving access to and uptake of HPV vaccination among Filipino adolescents. Through these engagements, UPLIFT Adolescents strengthened coordination with DepEd SDOs toward developing an intervention that is responsive to the needs of schools, parents, and adolescent learners.

SOURCE: https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1GTQqZidU3/

SDG Contributions:

SDG 3 – Good Health and Well-being: Supported efforts to increase HPV vaccination uptake among Filipino adolescents, contributing to the prevention of HPV-related diseases and promotion of adolescent health.

SDG 4 – Quality Education: Strengthened coordination with schools to integrate health interventions within educational settings and support the health and well-being of adolescent learners.

SDG 10 – Reduced Inequalities: Promoted more equitable access to HPV vaccination by working with schools across Antipolo, Mandaluyong, Manila, and Laguna to address implementation barriers and reach adolescent populations.

SDG 17 – Partnerships for the Goals: Strengthened collaboration between UPLIFT Adolescents and DepEd Schools Division Offices in developing and implementing strategies to improve HPV vaccination among Filipino adolescents.