University of the Philippines Open University (UPOU) Faculty of Information and Communication Studies (FICS), Bachelor of Arts in Multimedia Studies (BAMS) alumna Misaki Julianne Acosta successfully presented her research at the 39th Annual Conference of the Asian Association of Open Universities (AAOU). Acosta, who graduated cum laude, became the first-ever BAMS advisee of Dr. Reinald Adrian Pugoy to present on an international academic stage.
Ms. Acosta delivering her presentation during the 39th Annual Conference of AAOU. (Photo courtesy of Dr. Leo Mendel D. Rosario)
The 39th Annual Conference of the AAOU was held from 22 to 24 October 2026, at the Heritage Hotel in Manila. Hosted by the Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP) – Open University System (OUS), the conference brought together researchers, educators, practitioners, and policymakers from across Asia under the theme, “Responding to Global Challenges Towards a Resilient and Future-Ready Open Distance and e-Learning.”
Acosta’s paper, titled “An Analysis of Undergraduate Students’ Alignment and Perceptions Regarding AI Policies at UP Open University,” tackles timely and critical issues surrounding how undergraduate students interpret, align with, and perceive institutional artificial intelligence policies within an open distance and e-learning (ODeL) environment. By introducing real-world student perspectives on AI policy into a broader academic dialogue, her research directly contributed to the conference’s goal of fostering interdisciplinary collaboration and scholarly exchange across the region.
In a Facebook post, her adviser, Dr. Reinald Adrian Pugoy, expressed his pride, highlighting how Acosta’s work aligns with his research in Critical AI Literacy.
“Moments like these remind me of what I truly love doing: teaching, mentoring, and conducting research,” Dr. Pugoy shared, adding that seeing his students grow and succeed remains one of the most fulfilling parts of being an academic.
(Left) Ms. Acosta together with UPOU faculty members during the opening program of the AAOU annual conference (Photo courtesy of PUP OUS). (Right) Faculty members of UPOU show their support for Ms. Acosta. (Photo courtesy of Dr. Ria Mae H. Borromeo).
This achievement marks a significant milestone for both FICS and the BAMS program. Acosta’s successful presentation validates the international caliber of undergraduate research produced within the program and highlights the essential role of dedicated faculty mentorship in cultivating academic excellence. Furthermore, her milestone sets an inspiring precedent for current and future BAMS students, demonstrating that distance learning scholars can actively participate in international academic discourse and help shape the future of educational technology policy.
Written by: Loren Sta. Ana
Edited by: Anna Cañas-Llamas