In a move to honor the rich legacy of leadership and academic excellence of its past deans, the Faculty of Management and Development Studies (FMDS), University of the Philippines Open University (UPOU) has created a Dean’s Corner in the FMDS Website.
This newly created website page stands as a tribute to the esteemed deans of the FMDS who served from 2004 to the present. The guidance and leadership of these previous deans profoundly influenced the FMDS’ trajectory throughout its history. From Dr. Paz H. Diaz, the first Dean of FMDS, to the current leader, Dr. Joane V. Serrano, this site provides an insightful glimpse into FMDS’ programs, contributions, and academic pursuits.
Dr. Joane V. Serrano, the current dean of FMDS, brings a wealth of expertise in the areas of sustainability, environmental advocacy, and gender empowerment. Her multifaceted career spans teaching, research, and public service engagements, underscoring her commitment to fostering inclusive, diverse, and sustainable academic initiatives.
Preceding Dr. Serrano is Dr. Primo G. Garcia, a professor specializing in organization and management, particularly in open and distance e-learning and teaching. Dr. Garcia led the way toward academic innovation. His tenure as Dean was marked by significant progress in enhancement of the faculty members’ competence in online learning, advancement in online learner and academic support systems, and quality management through academic program improvement initiative projects.
Dr. Inocencio E. Buot Jr., a UP Scientist and professor renowned for his expertise in botany, plant ecology, biodiversity conservation, and environmental science, contributed significantly to FMDS by enhancing its academic and administrative operations. His tenure saw the inception and development of key academic programs, further solidifying FMDS’ commitment to interdisciplinary education.
Dr. Maria Fe Villamejor-Mendoza, a leader in public administration and governance, supported the development of various disciplines within FMDS. Her leadership helped grow fields such as environment and natural resources management, public health, and social work.
Dr. Paz H. Diaz, the first dean, established the foundation for FMDS. Her expertise in development communication and entrepreneurship education created a strong base for the Faculty, emphasizing interdisciplinary education and a global outlook in its academic goals.
FMDS was established in 2004 when two units, the Faculty of Management Sciences (FMS) and the Faculty of Health Sciences (FHS) were merged to create a more comprehensive and integrated approach to management and development studies.
The FMDS Dean’s Corner also recognizes the former deans of the Faculty of Management Sciences, including Dr. Melinda F. Lumanta (1999-2003), and the Faculty of Health Sciences, Dr. Teresita I. Barcelo (1999-2001) and Dr. Caridad Ancheta (2001-2003) who played key roles in shaping the vision and direction of the new FMDS.
This digital initiative underscores the Faculty’s commitment to preserving its rich history while embracing the future of the Faculty of Management and Development Studies.
Checkout the FMDS Dean’s Corner at https://fmds.upou.edu.ph/deans-corner/
Moreover, a series of strategic meetings have been held to solidify UP VINTA’s presence in various regions:
- A fruitful discussion with Full Phils on 23 January 2023, explored potential partnerships and support for UP VINTA initiatives. This was attended by UPOU Chancellor Dr. Melinda dela Peña Bandalaria and Linkages Officer Ms. Margaret Jarmin-Suarez. The representatives from FULL Phils were Mr. Lauro Baja III, Mr. Emilio Baja, and Ms. Melody Domondon.
- A meeting between UP and the Philippine Embassy in Thailand on 29 January 2024, aimed to lay the groundwork for UP VINTA’s rollout in the country. This time. Dr. Bandalaria and Ms Jarmin-Suarez met with UP System Office of International Linkages (OIL) Director Dr. Imee Su Martinez, and her team consisting of Executive Assistant Ms. Chynna Louis Riego and Program Development and Strategy Head Mr. Guillian Mecate, and Philippine Embassy in Thailand Third Secretary and Vice Consul Atty. Susan Phoebe R. Sabado.
- On 2 February 2024, a productive meeting with UP System OIL focused on planning and coordination for UP VINTA. This was attended by Dr. Bandalaria and Ms. Jarmin-Suarez, and UP System Office of International Linkages (OIL) Director, Dr. Martinez and her team, consisting of Ms. Riego and Mr. Mecate.
- A strategic meeting with the Philippine Embassy in the UAE on 2 February 2024, highlighted the importance of diplomatic ties in supporting UP VINTA initiatives. Dr. Bandalaria and Ms. Jarmin-Suarez met with Philippine Ambassador to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) His Excellency Alfonso Ferdinand A. Ver, and Third Secretary and Vice Consul Kevin Mark R. Gomez.
- A collaborative session between UP, Manila Economic and Cultural Office (MECO), and other stakeholders for UP VINTA in Taiwan on 8 February 2024, focused on planning and coordination. Dr. Bandalaria and Ms. Jarmin-Suarez engaged with Dr. Martinez, Ms. Riego and Mr. Mecate, MECO Chairperson Silverio Bello III, MECO Community Development Unit Head Ms. Irene Tan, and Deputy Representative in Taipei Ms. Alice Visperas.
- A forward-thinking discussion with the Philippine Embassy in Singapore on 1 March 2024 explored opportunities for UP VINTA’s rollout in Singapore. Dr. Bandalaria and Ms. Jarmin-Suarez met with Philippine Ambassador to Singapore His Excellency Medardo Macaraig, and Third Secretary and Vice Consul Jhullie Anne Beniahan.
- A strategic meeting with the Philippine Embassy in Qatar was held on 11 March 2024 aimed to discuss the rollout of UP VINTA in Qatar. Dr. Martinez, Ms. Riego, Dr. Bandalaria, Ms. Jarmin-Suarez met with Philippine Ambassador to Qatar H.E. Pono, and Third Secretary and Vice Consul Calangian.
These engagements underscore UP VINTA’s commitment to inclusive, quality education, fostering innovation, and driving societal progress on a global scale. With a visionary approach and strategic partnerships, UP VINTA is revolutionizing education, empowering students worldwide, and shaping the future of learning.
Written by Nikhaela Valenciano ♦ Edited by Margaret Suarez-Jarmin and Anna Cañas-Llamas ♦ Contributed by OVCAA
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