A new batch of students of the University of the Philippines Open University (UPOU) Faculty of Information and Communication Studies (FICS) began their open and distance e-learning (ODeL) journey at the FICS General Orientation for Academic Year 2026-2027 held at the World Class Training Room, UPOU Headquarters, and online via Zoom last Saturday, 19 September 2026.
More than 500 online attendees and 70 on-site participants from the Associate of Arts in Digital Design and Art, Associate of Science in Information Technology, Bachelor of Arts in Multimedia Studies, Diploma in Computer Science, Master of Development Communication, Master of Information Systems, and Doctor of Communication programs joined the event. The orientation allowed them to meet the faculty and staff members who will join them as they navigate learning at UPOU.
New students, along with faculty and staff members of FICS, attended the hybrid event hosted by Asst. Prof. Mary Kristene D. Clariño.
In his opening remarks, FICS Dean Dr. Roberto B. Figueroa Jr. highlighted opportunities for students to expand their ODeL experience, including the Faculty’s research groups, colloquia, creative laboratories, and interdisciplinary initiatives that address real-world challenges.
“Your transcript will tell us what courses you completed. But your experiences will tell you what kind of person and professional you have become. And while ODeL requires you to become an independent learner, remember, being independent does not mean being invisible,” said Figueroa.
Dean Figueroa invites the new students to make the most of their stay in UPOU and FICS.
Figueroa also encouraged the students to let the University’s mantra of honor, excellence, and service guide them in their ODeL journey.
“Ask how your knowledge and creativity can contribute to your community, our country, and the wider world. That is what being an e-Skolar ng Bayan should ultimately mean. So as you begin your journey, remember these things: take ownership of your learning, make the journey bigger than your degree, stay connected, and use what you learn to serve others,” the Dean told the students.
FacSec Jarmin-Suarez responds to academic concerns raised by the students during the open forum.
Meanwhile, Asst. Prof. Margaret Jarmin-Suarez, FICS Faculty Secretary, discussed the academic policies, procedures, and support services that will guide the students throughout their stay at UPOU.
The orientation proper was followed by an open forum where students asked questions and raised academic concerns to the UPOU faculty members and administrative officials.
Written by: Jian Martin Tenorio
Edited by: Asst. Prof. Shaira Tanay