The University of Northern Philippines, through its Office of Student Affairs and Services, was represented by three key personnel at the inaugural Regional Conference and General Assembly of the Philippine Association of Practitioners of Student Affairs and Services (PAPSAS) Region I held on September 18, 2026, at the Star Plaza Hotel in Dagupan City, Pangasinan.
Representing UNP were Dr. Marifel Acena, Head of the Student Welfare Services Office and Program Head of the Master of Arts in Guidance and Counseling; Dr. Rhosechelle Riboroso, Assistant Head of Student Housing and Residential Services and Research Services; and Dr. Precious Lyn Babida, Assistant Head of Admission Services.
The regional gathering brought together student affairs practitioners, administrators, and focal persons from across Region I to exchange practices, discuss emerging trends and challenges in student development, and strengthen professional networks in Student Affairs and Services.
Held under the theme “Weaving Holistic and Transformative Student Affairs and Services in Region I,” the conference provided the UNP delegates with an opportunity to take part in discussions on professional practice and student-centered services alongside counterparts from higher education institutions across the region.
A key development during the assembly was the election of Dr. Acena as a member of the PAPSAS Region I Board of Directors. Her election adds a UNP representative to the regional organization’s leadership and provides an avenue for the University to participate in professional initiatives concerning Student Affairs and Services in Region I.
PAPSAS has worked with the Commission on Higher Education for more than three decades in advancing the delivery of Student Affairs and Services in higher education. Its inaugural Region I regional assembly brought practitioners together to share professional experiences and examine concerns relevant to student welfare and development.
UNP’s participation in the gathering reflects the involvement of its Student Affairs and Services personnel in regional professional activities and knowledge exchange, with its delegates contributing to discussions and networks within the wider SAS community.
