A Path Illuminated: Triumphs from the STEP UP EIM Graduates

On November 26, 2025, Balay Kalinaw in UP Diliman became a home of triumph and new beginnings as the University gathered to celebrate the graduation of the participants of the Skills Training and Enhancement Program for UP Employees (STEP UP) on Electrical Installation and Maintenance (EIM). What began as a commitment to upskilling the University’s workforce culminated in a day filled with pride, gratitude, and stories of transformation.

The ceremony opened with warm and inspiring words from Vice-Chancellor for Administration Adeline A. Pacia, who reflected on the deeper impact of the program. For her, STEP UP was not merely a technical training-it was “a path toward strengthening your future and fortifying your connections, not only with electrical systems but with your capabilities as vital members of UP Diliman.” She encouraged the graduates to keep the fire of learning alive and use their newfound expertise to uplift both the University and their own lives.

The program’s journey began with a kick-off session on October 7, followed by rigorous training from October 13 to 28, and culminating in a national assessment where all 24 participants passed-was a testament to discipline, teamwork, and resilience. This achievement would not have been possible without the steadfast partnership with TESDA and Mechatronics Technologies Corporation (MTC).

This was highlighted in the keynote message delivered by Ms. Leizel P. Lectura, Chief of the HR Development and Benefits Division. She honored the invaluable contribution of MTC, with special appreciation to its President, Engr. Gamaliel F. Itao, and the dedicated trainers who guided the participants throughout the course. She emphasized that every precise installation and every resolved electrical issue represented not just completed tasks, but a higher level of mastery for the graduates.

One of the most heartfelt moments of the morning came from the Valedictorian of the Batch, Vincent Roi S. Sareno of the UP Computer Center, who shared his personal journey through the intensive training. With sincerity, he recounted how the program deepened his understanding of electrical installation, CCTV systems, and most importantly, the Fire Detection and Alarm System (FDAS). These skills, he noted, were more than technical know-how, they were tools that could save lives and protect entire offices. He expressed his gratitude to HRDO’s Training Section and his co-trainees, hoping that more employees would experience similar opportunities for growth.

An audio-visual presentation followed, offering a glimpse into the participants’ shared hardships and victories, the early mornings, challenging modules, hands-on tasks, and the perseverance that carried them through. Their testimonials revealed not just improved skills, but strengthened camaraderie and confidence.

In a special message, Engr. Gamaliel F. Itao expressed his appreciation for the opportunity to serve the University. He reminded the graduates that excellence in electrical work isn't just about making things work-it's about making them work well. "Your output should be functional and also be beautiful," he said. It was a call to take pride in the craft, to let quality speak for professionalism.

As certificates were awarded and graduates celebrated, the true spirit of STEP UP shone brightly. This program had done what it set out to do: equip people with industry-standard skills and build a culture of safety and innovation within the University.

By the end of the ceremony, it was clear that the STEP UP EIM graduates were not simply leaving with certificates. They walked out of Balay Kalinaw with renewed purpose and empowered with competencies. More importantly, they carried with them the confidence that they can contribute to building a safer, more efficient, and future-ready University.