The Los Baños Horticulture Society Inc. (LBHSI), in partnership with the UP Open University (UPOU), officially opened the Flower and Garden Show with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on 3 April 2025 at the Community Hub, UPOU Headquarters, Los Baños, Laguna.
The event was graced by LBHSI President Vernie Valdez-Lucero, UPOU Chancellor Joane Serrano, former UPOU Chancellor Melinda Bandalaria, UPOU Vice Chancellor for Finance and Administration Jean Saludadez, and Faculty of Management and Development Studies (FMDS) Dean Finaflor Taylan. Other UPOU officials, faculty members, and staff were also in attendance, along with merchants and LBHSI members.
In her welcome remarks, LBHSI President Lucero highlighted three key milestones for this year’s Flower and Garden Show: LBHSI’s 53rd anniversary celebration; the third year of the collaboration between LBHSI and UPOU; and the nearness of the event’s new venue. Situated along the National Highway, the new location enhances accessibility, inviting more community members to visit and participate. She concluded her speech by emphasizing the strong working relationship between the two organizations, highlighting their mutual commitment to understanding and cooperation.
UPOU Chancellor Joane Serrano also addressed the attendees, emphasizing that beyond the beauty of the displays, the event fosters engagement and learning—a space where passions take root, ideas flourish, and connections grow stronger. She affirmed that the Flower and Garden Show has become a cherished tradition and will continue in the years to come. Chancellor Serrano also extended her gratitude to the organizers, sponsors, and everyone who contributed to making the event a success.
Additionally, LBHSI Vice President Wilma Dumayas delivered a recognition message to former UPOU Chancellor Bandalaria in appreciation of her unwavering support for the event over the years. The LBHSI Board members also awarded a token of appreciation to the UPOU representatives in acknowledgment of their contributions.
The Flower and Garden Show is open to the public from 4 to 13 April 2025, from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM at the UPOU Community Hub.
Written by Marinela Hernandez ♦ Edited by Primo Garcia and Anna Cañas-Llamas
#UPOpenUniversity
