COED Commends Academic Excellence and Leadership

Article by Chan Jasper Sarvida and Antonia Fe Dela Cruz

The College of Education (CoEd) held its annual recognition program with the theme “Diwa’t Hiraya: Pagdiriwang ng Kahusayan,” on October 10, 2025, at the Claro M. Recto Hall. The event celebrated academic excellence, service, and leadership among students and faculty members.

The program began with an inspiring message from Dr. Dennis O. Dumrique, who emphasized the importance of honoring dedication and achievement. This was followed by opening remarks from Dr. Rosemariebeth R. Dizon, who expressed gratitude to students, faculty, and organizers for their contributions to the success of the event.

Associate Professor Michelle Bandola-Sotto, Chairperson of the Department of Business Teacher Education, highlighted the resilience of teachers and students in overcoming challenges and underscored the need to continuously improve education. She later introduced keynote speaker Dr. Enrique S. Palacio, Supervising Education Program Specialist from the Department of Education’s Bureau of Curriculum Development.

Dr. Palacio, a proud PUP alumnus, shared his experiences as a working student and his belief that “Ang kahirapan ay hindi hadlang sa tagumpay” (“Poverty is not a hindrance to success”). He reminded future educators that teaching is not only about lessons but about transforming lives, leaving the audience with the message, “Your story is your power. Use it.”

The event also recognized university delegates who represented PUP in various local and international programs such as the Academic Exchange Program in Kaohsiung, Taiwan; the 62nd National Rizal Youth Leadership Institute; the Global Youth Summit; the SCUAA Tournaments; and the National Campus Journalism Convention.

Awards were presented to outstanding students for exemplary performance in their practicum, research, and academic achievements. Special citations were given to those who represented the university in national and international competitions, including the Northern Luzon British Parliamentary Debate and the Northern Luzon Invitational Debate 2025.

Faculty members were likewise honored for their dedication and contributions in research, publication, and community service. Special distinctions such as Premier Research, Most Productive Researcher, Most Cited Researcher, Most Outstanding Researcher, and Extension Service were also conferred.

The event further recognized student leaders and organizations through the Gawad Hiraya sa Natatanging Lider-Estudyante, Gawad Hiraya sa Natatanging Samahang Mag-aaral, and Gawad Hiraya sa Natatanging Serbisyo. The CoEd Student Council President was also given a Special Leadership Award for her outstanding dedication and service.

Dr. Caroline T. Sumande, Associate Dean of the College of Education, left her closing message commending the perseverance of students and faculty, saying, “We deserve every bit of recognition.” She encouraged those who did not receive awards to keep striving, reminding them that “maybe next year, it will be your time to shine.”