With the goal of advancing the welfare, privileges, and professional development of faculty members, the Faculty Union (FU) officers gathered on August 28, 2025, at Villa Minerva Eco Farm and Beach Resort for a Strategic Planning cum Board Meeting. The activity served not only as a venue for reviewing reports and updates but also as a step toward ensuring that the collective vision of the faculty continues to resonate within the University of Northern Philippines community.
In her Statement of Purpose, Vice President Ms. Crizzle Paz emphasized that the gathering was not only about reviewing reports or policies but about recommitting to the shared responsibility of the faculty as educators, mentors, and advocates of academic excellence. She reminded members that the strength of the union lies in its ability to listen, to respond, and to build a culture of solidarity.
The strategic planning proper centered on strengthening institutional mechanisms and support systems. Discussions included the refinement of the Faculty Union Constitution, By-Laws, and Faculty Manual, as well as updates on allowances, seminar opportunities, and union services. UNP-FU President Dr. Aldrin Jaramilla, in his message, underscored the need for the union to be both proactive and responsive. He noted that faculty are the backbone of the university and that the union must not only safeguard their rights and privileges but also create opportunities for growth. “Our plans today are not just for us, but for the future of UNP. Strategic planning gives structure to our aspirations and ensures that our voices remain strong in the journey of our university toward greater heights,” he said.
The business meeting proper followed, where members deliberated on important union matters, including financial updates, membership concerns, union projects, medical allowance adjustments, seminar development, gazette updates, and enhancements to faculty services. Amendments to the Faculty Union Constitution and By-Laws were also carefully reviewed and approved. These deliberations reflected the values of transparency, inclusivity, and participatory decision-making, principles that resonate with the entire UNP community as it strives for shared governance and collective progress.
Adding a more personal touch to the occasion, the activity coincided with the birthday of Dr. Aldrin Jaramilla. Officers took the opportunity to celebrate his leadership and dedication, honoring not only his special day but also his unwavering service to the faculty. This rare blend of strategic dialogue and joyful celebration served as a reminder that the Faculty Union is not just an organization, but a family bound by shared aspirations and values.
Present during the planning and meeting were the officers of the UNP Faculty Union, namely Dr. Aldrin Jaramilla, President; Ms. Crizzle Paz, Vice President; Mr. Arnold Pio, Secretary; Dr. Novie Ada Urbis, Assistant Secretary; Dr. Glenn Paul Briones, Treasurer; Engr. Maila Ragasa, Assistant Treasurer; Mr. Mhark Jay Benitez, Auditor; Dr. Marilen Pablico Press Relations Officer; Mr. Justin Soria, Business Manager; Mr. Greggie Talingdan, Chair of Community Affairs; Atty. Meilyn Padua-Unciano, Chair of Grievance; Atty. Aryan Ceasar Manglapus, Chair of Legal Affairs, Dr. Carmela Florentino, Chair of Faculty Development; and unit representatives.
The day concluded with a renewed commitment to service, unity, and growth. By setting clear priorities and fostering participatory leadership, the Faculty Union strengthened its role as the collective voice of the faculty, ensuring that their needs and aspirations are championed, while also contributing to the overall mission of the University of Northern Philippines.
