COLLEGE OF PUBLIC POLICY AND GOVERNANCE

HISTORY OF THE COLLEGE OF PUBLIC POLICY AND GOVERNANCE

The Bachelor in Public Administration (BPA) program traces its roots to the founding of the Universidad de Manila in 1995, where it was initially housed under the College of Arts and Sciences. For many years, the program flourished within this academic environment, providing students with a strong foundational education in the social sciences, humanities, and the principles of governance. 

Recognizing the growing need for specialized management skills in the public sector, the program was later moved to the College of Business and Management. This strategic transition was designed to infuse the curriculum with essential business acumen, financial literacy, and organizational management theories—skills that are critical for modern public administrators navigating complex government and non-profit landscapes. 

To further elevate the program’s standing and respond to the evolving demands of public service in the 21st century, the university administration undertook a significant academic restructuring. This led to the establishment of a dedicated academic unit focused entirely on governance and policy. 

In a landmark move during the Second Semester of School Year 2025-2026, the College of Public Policy and Governance (CPPG) was officially inaugurated as a standalone college. The creation of the CPPG marked a pivotal moment in UDM’s history, signifying the university’s deep commitment to producing competent, ethical, and visionary leaders for the public sector. 

The college was established not only to house the Bachelor in Public Administration program but also to serve as a hub for policy research, community extension services, and multi-sectoral collaboration aimed at addressing pressing local and national governance issues. 

At the helm of this new academic venture, Dr. Rejan L. Tadeo was designated as the founding Dean of the College. Dr. Tadeo serves the college in a concurrent capacity, also holding the position of Officer-In-Charge of the Office of the Vice President for Academic Affairs. His extensive experience in quality assurance, accreditation, and academic leadership ensures that the CPPG is built upon a foundation of excellence, innovation, and unwavering commitment to public service. 

Ensuring the continuity and stability of the BPA program’s day-to-day operations, Dr. Marita Lerma continues her appointment as the Program Chairperson—a role she has held since the program’s previous college assignment. Her deep familiarity with the curriculum, faculty, and student needs provides the college with invaluable institutional memory and ensures a seamless transition into this new academic structure. 

MANDATE AND FUNCTIONS

To educate servant-leaders who uphold integrity, accountability, and excellence in the pursuit of public welfare.

CPPG VISION

  1. The College of Public Policy and Governance envisions cultivating competent, ethical, and service-driven leaders who advance innovative, inclusive, and socially responsive approaches to public policy and governance, contributing meaningfully to the progress of society. 

CPPG MISSION

  1. The College is dedicated to preparing transformative leaders through rigorous instruction, applied research, and meaningful community engagement. 

    It fosters a learning environment that promotes integrity, critical thinking, participation, and effective stewardship in the development and implementation of public policies and programs.

CORE VALUES

S – Stewardship

We uphold responsible and ethical leadership that protects public trust and ensures the wise and purposeful use of resources. 

E – Excellence

We pursue high standards of learning, performance, and professionalism, striving for continuous growth and quality in all endeavors. 

R – Responsiveness

We remain attentive and proactive to emerging needs, engaging stakeholders and fostering collaboration to create meaningful and effective solutions. 

V – Virtue

We act with integrity, honesty, and moral courage, maintaining the highest respect for the dignity of the communities we serve. 

E – Efficiency

We value innovation, discipline, and results-oriented action, promoting approaches that enhance effectiveness and public value. 

INSTITUTIONAL DIRECTION

To be Level III accredited by the Association of Local Colleges and Universities Commission on Accreditation 

COLLEGE LOGO

Integrative Justification 

This Coat of Arms symbolizes the philosophy and practice as envisioned by the College: 

  • grounded in lawful authority (fasces),
  • guided by knowledge and evidence (book and quill),
  • committed to national progress and global relevance (globe and merlion),
  • and sustained by ethical governance and transparency (white and laurel).

The Open Book stands for knowledge, scientific inquiry, and administrative rationality. It suggests that effective public policy must rest on research, evidence, and technical expertise, not merely on political rhetoric. The open pages also reflect transparency and public accountability—the idea that governance must always be visible to and understood by the people. 

 

The Globe, with the Philippines at its heart, symbolizes the universality of the application of public policies while emphasizing the nation’s crucial role in regional and global development. It embodies the vision that Filipino administrators are not only servants of the state but global leaders in governance innovation, rooted in local realities. 

The Golden Merlion, derived from the Seal of Manila and Universidad de Manila, serves as the guardian of civic virtue and the embodiment of local identity. 

  • Its lion’s head symbolizes courage, leadership, and moral strength—essential for public servants who must act justly even amid political pressure.
  • Its fish tail denotes adaptability and the fluid nature of governance in responding to the ever-changing needs of society.

 

Fasces and Quill 

In its paws, the Merlion holds a Fasces and a Quill, balancing authority and intellect. 

  • The Fasces represents legitimate authority and institutional unity, affirming that public power must always be exercised under the rule of law and collective responsibility.
  • The Quill symbolizes the rational and communicative aspect of administration — policymaking, documentation, and transparency.

Together, they represent governance through lawful authority guided by reason, not force or political patronage. 

 

The Laurel Wreath 

Encircling the shield, the golden laurel leaves symbolize excellence, honor, and continuous learning. They express the College’s mission to cultivate public servants who embody meritocracy, efficiency, and commitment to lifelong public service. 

 

The Scroll 

The White Scroll bearing the inscription “College of Public Policy and Governance” serves as the foundation of the emblem — a metaphor for the institution as the bearer of administrative wisdom and nation-building. The color white mirrors the ideals of truth and transparency that the College instills in its graduates. 

 

The Motto — “Nos Oculus in Caelo Sumus” 

Literally “We are the eye in the sky,” the motto encapsulates the ever-present vigilance of governance. It signifies that the college must observe, assess, and respond to the needs of the people from womb to tomb — in every sphere of human life. It is also a metaphor for oversight, policy evaluation, and accountability — the moral watchtower of the state.

COLLEGE COLOR

Golden Amber

#FAA719

represents ethical leadership and service to the common good. It signifies the college’s calling to act with justice and compassion while upholding the highest moral standards in public office. 

Dark Teal

#06555E

embodies rationality, stability, and accountability—key principles in governance. It represents the technical and analytical competence that supports evidence-based policymaking and fiscal responsibility.

White

#FFFFFF

embodies rationality, stability, and accountability—key principles in governance. It represents the technical and analytical competence that supports evidence-based policymaking and fiscal responsibility.

Violet

#523289

embodies rationality, stability, and accountability—key principles in governance. It represents the technical and analytical competence that supports evidence-based policymaking and fiscal responsibility.

Violet represents: 

      • Foresight 
      • Strategic thinking 
      • Big-picture leadership 

These qualities are essential for policy analysts, program planners, and future administrators trained by CPPAG. Violet therefore signifies the College’s core mandate to produce graduates who not only administer but also envision and craft policies that affect society for generations. 

MESSAGE FROM DEAN/DIRECTOR

Dean, College of Public Policy and Governance 

Dear Students, Faculty, and Visitors, 

It is with great pride and excitement that I welcome you to the College of Public Policy and Governance (CPPG)—the newest academic home of the Bachelor in Public Administration program at Universidad de Manila. 

Our journey began many years ago, and today, we stand at the threshold of a new era. This College was born out of a vision to elevate public administration education, equipping our students not only with knowledge and skills but also with the values of integrity, compassion, and genuine service to the Filipino people. 

To our students: you are the heart of this College. We are here to guide, support, and empower you to become the leaders our communities urgently need. To our faculty and staff: your dedication and expertise are the foundation upon which this College will thrive. 

Together, let us make the College of Public Policy and Governance a beacon of excellence and a catalyst for meaningful change. 

ACADEMIC PROGRAM

Bachelor of Public Administration

The Bachelor of Public Administration (BPA) program is an applied social science and a field of management that prepares students for careers in public administration and governance for the public interest. It is a formation course for those who want to devote their life to public service in government and civil society. The program aims to develop committed, dedicated, and accountable public servants with the required knowledge, values, and skills to serve as professionals.

Career Competencies 

Graduates of the BPA program should have the following competencies: 

  • Adequate knowledge and understanding of the fundamentals of good governance. 
  • High appreciation for the demands and challenges of public service. 
  • High ethical values for public service, accountability, nationalism, and sustainability. 
  • Strong sense of duty to promote and protect the public interest, especially for depressed and marginalized communities. 
  • Adequate skills in management, including planning, implementation, monitoring, and human, material, and resource management for government and civil society organizations. 
  • Adequate ability to engage in scientific research and national decision-making.

Career Opportunities 

Graduates are prepared for technical, administrative, executive, and policy-making positions in both government and civil society. The BPA program is also a good preparation for those interested in taking up law. 

  • Entry-level jobs include: 
  • Technical assistants in government and civil society. 
  • Researchers in government, civil society, and academic institutions. 
  • Development managers of small and medium-sized voluntary sector or civil society organizations. 
  • Advanced office positions include: 
  • Executives in national and local government institutions, including government-owned and controlled corporations. 
  • Elective positions in local and national government. 
  • Executives in national, regional, and international organizations. 
  • Development managers of large voluntary sector or civil society organizations. 

Alumni Testimonial

Activities

Research and Innovation 

  • EAT-Seismic Sentinel Initiative: Building an AI-Enabled University Ecosystem for Earthquake Resilience, Life Safety, and Community Protection Emergency Action Team (EAT) on Earthquake Safety Protocols as a Flagship AI-Driven Disaster Resilience Research Program, Innovation Congress International Research Conference on Pharmaceutical and Allied Sciences – Dr. Jonathan De Leon 
  • A Smart Collaborative Learning Platform using NLP, Deep Learning Models, and Recommendation Algorithm for Automated Content Generation, International Journal of Research and Innovation in Applied Science – Dr. Rhonnel Paculanan, Prof. Francis Arlando L. Atienza, Dr. Rejan L. Tadeo, Prof. Jesus B. Calma, Prof. Christina Atal, Prof. Joy Sadol 
  • Latent Profile Analysis of Learned Helplessness in Mobile Mathematics Learning: A Behavioral Perspective, International Conference on Innovations in Computational Intelligence and Computer Vision – Prof. Francis Arlando L. Atienza, Dr. Rex P. Bringula, Dr. John Paul P. Miranda 
  • Development and Evaluation of a Math mCSCL Platform with Aggregated Content-Based Filtering and Guessing Detection, Journal of Artificial Intelligence and Technology – Prof. Francis Arlando L. Atienza, Dr. Rex P. Bringula, Dr. John Paul P. Miranda 

Extension and Community Engagement 

  • Empowering Office Productivity Tools: Learning Microsoft Excel for Barangay 790 Officials, Feb. 13, 2026, led by Prof. Francis Arlando L. Atienza, Prof. Jesus G. Calma Jr. 
  • Digital Skills Training for Barangay 790 Officials, Dec. 9, 2025, led by Dr. Jonathan De Leon
  • Empowering Office Productivity Tools: Learning Microsoft Excel for Barangay 790 Officials, Feb. 13, 2026, led by Prof. Francis Arlando L. Atienza, Prof. Jesus G. Calma Jr. 
  • Digital Skills Training for Barangay 790 Officials, Dec. 9, 2025, led by Dr. Jonathan De Leon

Internships and Industry Immersion 

Companies partnered

  • Schools Division Office of Manila 
  • Philippine Ports Authority 
  • Highpoint Services Network Philippines, Inc. 
  • Oriole Dynamic Int’l. Corp. 
  • Bureau of Customs 
  • COMELEC 
  • R2 Group of Exclusive Brands 
  • MicroData 
  • First Unity Textile Mills 
  • Civil Service Commission Field Office 
  • Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila 
  • Poseidon International Maritime Services, Inc. 
  • Crowe 
  • Namayan Digital, Inc.
  • Nexus Cloud IT Solutions, Inc. 
  • NRK Digital Media 
  • Municipality of Gerona, Province of Tarlac 
  • CUBED Technologies 
  • ADHI-PTPP Joint Venture 
  • National Bureau of Investigation 
  • Adventus 
  • Bespoke IT Project Corp. 
  • Transfer IT 
  • iHyvePh 
  • C’SCOR Global Intertrade Corp 
  • UP Manila Disaster Risk Education and Management Health Center 
  • Lungsod ng Maynila – Public Employment Service Office 
  • Deparment of Social Welfare and Development 
  • CompMan – Competence Management & Consultancy Inc. 
  • Kaizo Enterprises Co. 
  • San Juan Medical Center 
  • One Outsource 
  • Bye Bye Pinas Inc. 
  • Atlanta Industries 
  • Concentrix 
  • SK Federation Office 
  • Four R Customs Brokerage (OPC) 
  • Chinabank 
  • CREMPCOOP 
  • City of Manila – Office of the Accountant 
  •  Department of Tourism – Culture and Arts Manila 
  • Columbia Trchnologies, Inc.
  • SPARKLE Star International Corporation 
  • Cultural Center of the Philippines 
  • ArchEn Technologies, Inc 
  • Converge, ICT Solutions Inc. 
  • D.M. Consunji, Inc. 
  • Teleperformance 
  • Co Ban Kiat Hardware Inc. 
  • Arthur John Collection Agency Inc. 
  • Fast Forward Freight Forwarding Inc. 
  • OLLOPA Corporation 
  • HSTI 
  • MC MAXCOR Inter-ventures Co. 
  • Blue Orion Recruitment Services Corp. 
  • APPTrade  
  • Universidad de Manila 
    • Office of the University Registrar and CMIT 

15 OJT students were hired and absorbed by their companies

Competitions and Academic Enrichment 

  • UDM Week 2025 
    • 1st Place e-Games Competition – Call of Duty 
    • 2nd Place e-Games Competition – Mobile Legends 
    • Ms. UDM 2025 Winner – Hamiyah Ravina BSIT1 
  • IT Skills Olympics 2025 
    • 1st Runner Up – Robotics Competition 
    • 1st Runner Up – Web Design Competition 
  • The Sing, Tarlac, Sing! National Solo Singing Competition, Tarlac City,  
    • 2nd Place Kundiman Category, June 2026 – Kyle Angelo M. Dalanon BSIT-Data Science 

Student Achievements

  • IT Skills Olympics, October 2025, University of Makati 
    • 1st Runner Up – Robotics Competition 
    • 1st Runner Up – Web Design Competition 
  • The Sing, Tarlac, Sing! National Solo Singing Competition, Tarlac City,  
    • 2nd Place Kundiman Category, June 2026 – Kyle Angelo M. Dalanon BSIT-Data Science 

FACULTY ACHIEVEMENTS

  • DR. ROSALIE M. CATU 

for her publication in a Referred Journal of the research entitled 

“Critical Success Factors and Challenges Encountered in a Safe City 

by Selected Medium Enterprises in Manila, Philippines” 

in the Journal of Interdisciplinary Perspectives Vol. 3 No. 6 June 2025 Issue 

Print ISSN 2984-8288 Online ISSN 2984-8385 DOI: https://doi.org/10.69569/jip.2025.031. 

 

  • DR. MARITA T. LERMA 

for her publication in a Referred Journal of the research entitled 

“Service Delivery and Challenges Encountered 

by the City Social Services Department, Manila, Philippines” 

Journal of Interdisciplinary Perspectives Vol. 3 No. 10. October 2025 Issue 

Print ISSN 2984-8288 Online ISSN 2984-8385 DOI: https://doi.org/10.69569/jip.2025.492. 

 

  • DR. REJAN L. TADEO 

For being accepted the following researches for presentation 

        1. Responsible AI Adoption, Leadership Accountability, and Enterprise Growth: A Legal Governance Perspective from the Philippines 
        2. Bridging Network Performance and Service Quality: The Mediating Role of User Experience among Consumers in Emerging Economies 

In the World Conference on Information Systems for Business Management 

Universidad de Manila

Former City College of Manila

Contact Details

Main Campus

659-A Cecilia Muñoz St, Ermita, Manila, 1000 Metro Manila

Henry Sy. Campus (Annex)

Carlos Palanca, Santa Cruz, Manila, 1003 Metro Manila

Universidad de Manila @ 2024