The Faculty of Management and Development Studies (FMDS) of the University of the Philippines Open University (UPOU) is set for the upcoming UPOU 31st Anniversary celebration through the following schedule of activities. This year’s theme, “Weaving Intelligent Futures: Sustainability, Well-Being, Learning, and Intrapreneurship in the UPOU of Tomorrow,” finds fulfillment of the International University Social Responsibility (iUSR), by continuously seeking out opportunities wherein the university can contribute to the creation of sustainable communities, and the broader goal of sustainability. 

55th Los Baños Flower and Garden Show 

In collaboration with the Los Banos Horticulture Society, Inc. (LBHS) and as part of UPOU’s anniversary celebration, the 55th Los Baños Flower and Garden Show will be opened on 26 February 2026. A variety of plants, gardening supplies, and related products will be available for purchase, giving guests the opportunity to bring home a piece of inspiration and support local growers.

Join us as we celebrate growth, resilience, and the women who continue to shape our gardens and our communities. Save the date!

🗓 26 February to 08 March 2026, 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM

📍 Community Hub, UP Open University

Hybrid Lecture-Workshop | Financing Sustainability in a Global Context

This hybrid lecture-workshop highlights the critical role of finance in advancing sustainable development. More than a stand-alone learning session, the workshop reflects UPOU’s 31 years of leadership in open and distance e-learning, innovation, and socially responsive education.

The session will be facilitated by Dr. Urooj Malik, Associate Professor at University Canada West and Visiting Professor at UPOU. Participants will engage in discussions on global sustainability challenges, ESG tools, and practical case studies that translate theory into actionable strategies. 

🗓 10:00 AM-12:00 PM (Part 1);  2:00-4:00 PM (Part 2)

📍 CCDL Auditorium, UPOU & via Zoom

Official Launching of the Master of Climate and Disaster Resilience (MCDR) Program

In collaboration with the University of the Philippines Resilience Institute (UPRI), FMDS proudly announces the official approval of the institution of the Master of Climate and Disaster Resilience (MCDR). The MCDR program will be formally launched on the final day of UPOU’s week-long celebration of its 31st Anniversary. The launch will also be available via livestream, through UPOU Networks, and UPOU Networks’ Facebook page. This initiative aligns with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including Quality Education (SDG 4), Sustainable Cities and Communities (SDG 11), Life Below Water (SDG 14), and Life on Land (SDG 15). 🍃♻️🏞️

To join online, kindly scan the QR code for the Zoom credentials. We look forward to seeing you at the program launch. 💚🌱

🗓 27 February 2026 at 9:15 AM

📍UPOU International Convention Center (ICC) & via Zoom 

THRIFT & THRIVE: An FMDS Sustainable Garage Sale

This donation drive strengthened UPOU’s culture of service and volunteerism while promoting sustainability. Thrift and Thrive initiative will mobilize UPOU community in raising funds through a campus-wide donation and rummage sale activity. Collected pre-loved, usable items from UPOU faculty and staff will be sold in a garage sale to convert donated items into financial support that can be directed toward priority needs for the environment and community such as tree planting activity in the UPOU arboretum. 

Interested? Join us on 25-26 February 2026, 8:00 – 5:00 PM. Bring your own shopping bag and see you there!

📍 UPOU Main Building Lobby, UPOU Headquarters, Los Baños, Laguna

Sustainable Development Goals