The College of Home Economics (CHE) took part in the UP Diliman Lantern Parade on December 17, 2025, presenting a lantern design that reflected the College’s enduring commitment to family, resilience, accountability, and collective action. Headed by the Department of Family Life and Child Development (DFLCD), CHE’s Lantern Parade entry for the year carried the theme “Kaisang Tahanan, Kaisa ng Bayan.”

At the center of the lantern design was the tahanan, a powerful symbol of the Filipino family and community. The house represented home as a place of rest, care, and unity—reminding viewers that even amid challenges, there is a space where people can gather strength, find peace, and move forward together. Surrounding the home were towering waves, symbolizing the many trials faced by Filipino families, including social unrest, calamities, and systemic challenges. Despite these forces, the house remained standing, underscoring resilience rooted in unity.

Photo from the official Facebook page of DZUP.

Light emanating from the home symbolized hope, serving as a reminder that even in the strongest storms, there is a source of strength to return to. The inclusion of higantes in the design represented the aspirations and resilience of the community, conveying the idea that people are ultimately greater than the problems they face. Words inscribed on the waves and the higantes expressed the CHE community’s shared commitments toward accountability, justice, and collective responsibility.

The lantern design was inspired by the concept of “Abe-abe” or “Kaisa,” emphasizing faith in one another, the strengthening of collective voices, and the pursuit of inclusivity within communities. Unity, as reflected in the design, was not portrayed as a passive sentiment but as an active practice—demonstrated through shared action, care, and perseverance.

Beyond its symbolism, the CHE Lantern Parade entry was the result of strong community collaboration. DFLCD served as the lead department, with contributions from students, faculty, staff, and partner units across CHE. The collective participation in the design, construction, and parade itself reflected the very values of unity and shared purpose that the lantern sought to communicate.

Led by DFLCD, the CHE lantern was recognized for its compelling visual narrative and strong symbolism, earning 5th place in the UP Diliman Lantern Parade 2025. The recognition affirmed the collaborative efforts of the CHE community in translating its values into a meaningful cultural expression.

Through its 2025 Lantern Parade entry, CHE presented more than a festive display—it offered a visual story of the Filipino family as a foundation of strength, hope, and collective resilience.

Kaisang tahanan, kaisa ng bayan.

With the theme centered on Creative Work alongside Research, QUACHELLA 2025 provided a platform for CHE faculty members to collectively examine how creative outputs and research endeavors can be meaningfully integrated into instruction, aligned with program learning outcomes (PLOs), and situated within the College’s quality assurance framework.

Revisiting Creative Work as Academic Practice

Organized by the Department of Clothing, Textiles and Interior Design (CTID), the three-day conference brought together faculty members from across CHE for a series of keynote lectures, panel discussions, workshops, and collaborative activities. The opening program featured welcome remarks by Dean Shirley V. Guevarra, followed by a keynote presentation on Creative Work as an Academic Endeavor in the University delivered by Dr. Michael L. Tan, former Chancellor of the University of the Philippines Diliman.

A panel discussion on Creative Work in the University further enriched the conversation, with insights from Dean Toym Imao, Director Monica Santos, and Dr. Alyssa Alampay, moderated by Dr. Excelsa Tongson. The session highlighted diverse perspectives on how creative work is conceptualized, recognized, and evaluated within the academic landscape.

From Dialogue to Practice: Workshops and Faculty Outputs

A central component of QUACHELLA 2025 was its workshop series, designed to translate reflection into practice. Workshop I, facilitated by Dr. Lizamarie Olegario, focused on defining and contextualizing creative work within CHE’s various subdisciplines. Faculty participants collaboratively articulated how creative outputs contribute to teaching and scholarship, culminating in group presentations and peer feedback.

The conference also placed strong emphasis on quality assurance and outcomes-based education. A keynote on Quality Assurance by Dr. Aura Matias set the stage for Workshop II, led by Dr. Joanne Bantang, which examined how research and creative work can be embedded in course assessments and mapped to program learning outcomes. These sessions enabled faculty members to reflect on alignment between instructional strategies, outputs, and institutional goals.

Strengthening Faculty Community

Beyond its academic objectives, QUACHELLA 2025 also reinforced collegiality and collaboration within CHE. Informal exchanges during meals and the Fellowship Dinner and QUACHELLA Music Festival fostered a sense of community, recognizing that academic work is sustained not only through rigor, but also through shared experience and mutual support.

Institutional Significance

QUACHELLA 2025 stands as a significant milestone in CHE’s ongoing efforts to strengthen faculty development and ensure the relevance and quality of its academic programs. The discussions and outputs generated during the conference continue to inform conversations on curriculum development, creative scholarship, and quality assurance within the College.

The successful implementation of the conference was made possible through the collective efforts of the CTID faculty and staff, led by Asst. Prof. Kristyn Caragay, CTID Department Chair, together with the organizing committees responsible for program development, administration, and operations.

As CHE moves forward, QUACHELLA 2025 remains a valuable reference point for how the College engages with evolving academic practices while staying grounded in its disciplinary foundations.

Nanay Lita Ramos-Libunao and Dean Shirley V. Guevarra during the launch of the book Pabalat at the CHE 64th Anniversary.

The celebration opened with a pambungad na programa and flag ceremony at the CHE Lobby, accompanied by festive rhythms from the UP IS Drums and UP Pep Drummers. The morning program also featured the highly anticipated book launch of “Pabalat” by Dean Shirley V. Guevarra and “The Adobo Book, Volume 2” by Chef Claude Tayag, drawing both culinary enthusiasts and cultural advocates.

Chef Claude Tayag engaging the CHE community with his stories and insights at the 64th Anniversary celebration.

Adding to the excitement was the launch of the Department Booth Wars and the Collaborative Art Wall: “Pader ng Pagyabong,” where departments showcased interactive exhibits, games, food stalls, and creative displays that engaged the entire CHE community. The art wall, meanwhile, encouraged contributions throughout the day as a collective expression of growth and unity.

At midday, the community gathered for a tanghalian featuring Filipino delicacies with acoustic OPM music that fostered camaraderie among participants.

The highlight of the afternoon was the lively Lip Sync Battle: Inter-department Edition, hosted by Asst. Prof. Daniel Lucas and his co-emcee. Departments brought their best choreography, costumes, and showmanship to the stage, delivering performances that had the audience cheering from start to finish.

The day concluded with the announcement of winners for both the Booth Wars and the Lip Sync Battle. The event was made possible through the support of generous sponsors: Belview, Inc., Linas International Book Resources Incorporated, GoTyme Bank, and Emperador Inc., who donated prizes for the competitions.

The 64th CHE Anniversary successfully showcased the creativity and dynamic spirit of the College of Home Economics community, reminding everyone of its enduring legacy of excellence and collaboration.

CHE faculty and students join a lightning rally in solidarity with the University community. (Photo from the CHE Student Council Facebook Page)

The College of Home Economics (CHE) held its Araw ng Pagkilala 2025 on July 5 at the historic Cine Adarna, UP Film Center, celebrating the achievements of the graduating Class of 2025. With the theme “Handog-Dunong: A Celebration of Honor, Excellence, and Service,” the ceremony served as both a recognition of academic success and a tribute to resilience in the face of unprecedented challenges.

This year, 212 graduates were honored—192 from the undergraduate level and 20 from master’s and doctoral programs. More than a milestone, the occasion highlighted the strength of a generation that persevered through the pandemic and emerged prepared to contribute to both family and nation.

Celebrating Milestones, Embracing Responsibilities

The program emphasized that graduation is more than a personal achievement. It is also a collective triumph that underscores the responsibility carried by every Iskolar ng Bayan—to extend their knowledge, compassion, and service to others.

Inspiring Words from the Guest of Honor

A highlight of the event was the address of GM Anna Liza A. Vergara, a proud CHE alumna and the first Filipina General Manager of an international branded hotel chain. Vergara inspired the graduates with her reflections on leadership, perseverance, and purpose, reminding them that the sablay they wear is not merely a symbol of success but a pledge of service.

She urged the graduates to hold fast to the values instilled by the University and to bring these forward in their chosen fields, wherever their journeys may take them.

Looking Ahead

The recognition rites became a celebration of possibilities—sending off a new generation of leaders, educators, professionals, and advocates who will carry with them the ideals of honor and excellence in service of the Filipino people.

The CHE Class of 2025 stands as a beacon of hope and dedication, ready to face the challenges ahead with integrity, compassion, and an unwavering commitment to the nation.

Congratulations, graduates! The future you carry is a gift of knowledge for the world.

Carla Berino, Sarah Robielos, and Micah Banatao, all former thesis advisees of Dr. Maria Fema S. Aquino from UPD’s CHE, triumphed with their groundbreaking research titled “Diet Diversity and Micronutrient Adequacy of Preschool Children among Transnational Families in Quezon City, Metro Manila, Philippines.” Their victory highlights the university’s commitment to addressing critical issues in public health and nutrition.

The achievement was not only a testament to the students’ dedication and hard work but also recognized the invaluable role of academic mentorship and institutional support. Dr. Aquino’s guidance and expertise were clearly instrumental in this remarkable journey of success, underscoring how a dedicated thesis adviser can significantly impact student achievement and the quality of research produced. The team’s win came with a cash prize and plaques for the students, their thesis adviser, and the College of Home Economics UP Diliman, acknowledging the collective effort poured into advancing nutrition research.

This success underscores the vital platform provided by DOST-FNRI for young researchers to showcase their work and contribute to a well-nourished and food-secure Philippines. The UP Diliman community celebrates this remarkable accomplishment, which is expected to inspire more students to engage in impactful research that addresses the nation’s most pressing nutritional challenges.

Featured photo taken from the DOST-FNRI Facebook page.

Dr. Joanne R. Bantang received the very first PATHESCU, Inc. Professional Home Economics Service Award and the Home Economics Professional Award in Extension. These awards recognize her unwavering support to the organization as Secretary to four PATHESCU presidents, her valuable contributions to the PATHESCU Journal, and her remarkable volunteer work and extension activities benefiting the Filipino people, her College, and the University. Dr. Bantang’s dedication to service and extension has left an indelible mark on the community and the field of Home Economics.

Dr. Adelaida V. Mayo, former Dean of the UPD College of Home Economics, was honored with the inaugural PATHESCU, Inc. Home Economics Lifetime Achievement Award. This prestigious accolade celebrates her outstanding contributions to teaching, research, and extension in Home Economics and its related fields. Dr. Mayo’s lifelong dedication to advancing the field has significantly impacted the discipline, setting a remarkable example through her commitment to excellence and her efforts to educate, innovate, and extend knowledge to the community.

Dr. Maria Fema S. Aquino was awarded the first PATHESCU, Inc. Professional Home Economics Service Awardand the Home Economics Professional Award in Teaching. Her leadership as President of PATHESCU from 2022-2024 and Assistant Secretary from 2018-2022 has steered the organization to greater heights, significantly impacting the lives of many. Dr. Aquino’s initiatives in pursuing quality education in Home Economics and related fields, along with her exemplary performance as a mentor, have been highly recognized and appreciated.

Asst. Prof. Mary Justine Clarise A. Trinidad received the inaugural PATHESCU, Inc. Home Economics Professional Award in Teaching. This award acknowledges her outstanding performance and competency in providing quality education in Home Economics and related fields. Asst. Prof. Trinidad’s passion, expertise, and unwavering commitment have inspired and enriched the knowledge, skills, and values of her students, making a significant impact on their educational journey.

The UPD College of Home Economics is immensely proud of Dr. Bantang, Dr. Mayo, Dr. Aquino, and Asst. Prof. Trinidad for their exemplary achievements and contributions. These awards underscore the College’s commitment to excellence in Home Economics education, research, and community service. We congratulate our awardees and look forward to their continued success and impact in the field.

The following programs were granted AUN-QA certification:

• Bachelor of Science in Hotel, Restaurant and Institution Management (BS HRIM) – DHRIM

• Master of Science in Food Science (MSFS) – DFSN

This prestigious recognition is a strong affirmation of the departments’ commitment to academic excellence, quality assurance, and continuous improvement in higher education.

A special commendation goes to the Master of Science in Food Science (MSFS) program, which has made history as the first graduate program in UP Diliman to undergo and successfully earn AUN-QA certification. This milestone marks a significant achievement not only for DFSN but also for the entire university.

We extend our heartfelt congratulations to all faculty members, administrative staff, students, and stakeholders who contributed to this accomplishment. Your dedication and collaborative efforts have elevated the College’s academic standing and have set a benchmark for quality education in the ASEAN region.

Let us continue to uphold our culture of excellence as we move forward in pursuit of even greater academic and institutional milestones.

UP na, CHE pa! Padayon!

to showcase the history of HE in the UP over the past century, hold fun-filled activities to celebrate the centennial, and conduct a national conference to share knowledge and research on the contributions of HE to rebuilding families and communities after the pandemic. The Department of Home Economics Education organized the kick-off event, “This is HE ConcHErt: A Celebration of Talents.” The virtual concert reached a broad audience, including faculty, staff, students, alumni, retirees, and friends of CHE, with 173 attendees on Zoom, 1000 viewers on Facebook Live, and 163 viewers on YouTube. The concert featured a documentary video called “This is Home Economics at 100 in UP,” which highlighted the significant events of HE in UP over the past 100 years, including its relevance during the pandemic. The event also showcased the talents of nine performers: CTID Roaring Twenties, FSN Collective, FLCD Faculty, Ms. Renee Ysabella Esteban, Asst. Prof. Hui, Ms. Sherina Moralejo, FLCD Batch 2018, Jitter Jays, and CHE REPS and administrative staff. Most of them performed original compositions that celebrated hope and embracing changes amidst challenging situations. The lone dance performance was an original choreography of the Clothing Technology and Interior Design students.

The virtual concert successfully achieved its aim of providing a fun and lively start to the year-long HE Centennial Celebration. The event received positive reviews from the participants, and the viewers were impressed with the performers’ talents.

The Department of Home Economics Education also played a leading role in the HE Centennial celebration by collecting 100 recipes for a commemorative book project that will be launched in 2023. The recipe book, titled “Tara, igma ta! Kaon ran!”, serves as a gift from the College to the UP community and Filipino families. The book does not include a simple list of ingredients and procedures commonly found in social media, blogs, and commercial recipe books; it also includes essential information such as serving size, preparation time, and a budget estimate. Some recipes have been modified to include readily available ingredients during calamities or the pandemic. The book contains healthy snacks from the Child Development Center, recipes from the Department of Food Science and Nutrition’s FB page called Padayon ND, patron-loved recipes from the Tea Room, modified and original recipes based on the contributors’ pantry or backyard garden that is published by the Department of Home Economics Education on their own FB page titled “What’s in Your Kitchen?”, and other recipe contributions from CHE staff and friends. The recipes embody the ideals and areas of practice of the home economics discipline, making them a valuable planning tool for the UP community and Filipino families.

The HE Centennial National Conference that took place on November 14 to 15, 2022 was the highlight and culminating event of the HE centennial celebration. It was organized by the Department of Home Economics Education and the Department of Hotel, Restaurant and Institution Management. The conference focused on the theme “Redesigning the Material and Relational Aspects of Life through Home Economics,” highlighting the role of various sub-disciplines of home economics in helping families and households adapt to the changing material and relational needs brought by the ongoing pandemic.

The HE Centennial National Conference looked back on how home economics had helped families adapt to their changing needs in the past, and explored how the discipline could continue to improve the well-being of families and households in the current harsh conditions through its different areas. The conference featured three sub-themes: (1) the contribution of home economics to achieving SDGs; (2) the role of home economics in recovering from the Covid 19 Pandemic; and (3) teaching home economics and its subdisciplines in the next 100 years.

The conference was well-attended, with more than 500 participants registering and joining on different days and times. The first day included a panel discussion by former CHE deans, a symposium on the contribution of home economics to attaining the UN Sustainable Development Goals, and oral presentations of notable research. The second day featured a thought-provoking keynote speech by Dr. Sue Mc. Gregor, a symposium on utilizing the competitive advantages of home economics subdisciplines in rebuilding families and communities post-pandemic, and more oral presentations of notable research. In addition to these features, the conference also published a conference journal with high-quality peer-reviewed research articles in cooperation with the Philippine Association for Technology in Home Economics of State Colleges and Universities (PATHESCU), Inc.

The 100th anniversary of home economics as an academic discipline at the University of the Philippines emphasized its importance in addressing significant issues faced by families and households, particularly in managing resources within their homes. It aimed to go beyond simply meeting the needs of individuals and families by considering the welfare of the larger community as well. As Dr. Florencio (1995)^[1] stated, “Where there are homes and families, there will always be a place for home economics. And where there is a University of the Philippines serving the nation, there is also a space for the study and growth of the discipline of home economics.”

^[1] Florencio, Cecilia A. (1995b). Families and home economics monograph series 2: The College of Home Economics at the University of the Philippines: What it was, what it is, what it wants to be and the process of becoming. Quezon City: College of Home Economics, University of the Philippines Diliman.