UDM Produces Second Batch of Barangay Leaders Through Associate in Barangay Governance Graduation — Strengthening SDG 1 Through Community-Empowered Education 

On March 11, 2024, Universidad De Manila (UDM) held the 2nd Commencement Exercises for the Associate in Barangay Governance (ABG) program at the Justice Cecilia Palma Hall, UDM Main Campus. A total of 34 graduates, each representing different districts of Manila, completed this specialized academic program designed to professionalize grassroots leadership and strengthen public service capacity at the community level. 

The ceremony was graced by Manila City Mayor Maria Shielah “Honey” Honrado Lacuna-Pangan, University President Ma. Felma Carlos-Tria, Vice President for Academic Affairs Ronald Herrera, Vice President for Administration Manfredo A. Marcellano, Dean Dr. Nenita Fajardo-Buan, and University Registrar Loida J. Primavera, supported by 20 committee members and volunteers who ensured a dignified and orderly event. 

The ABG Program—an innovative offering unique to UDM—serves as a poverty alleviation mechanism through education and governance empowerment, directly contributing to SDG 1 – No Poverty. By equipping barangay officials and aspiring community servants with formal training in leadership, public administration, social services, and local legislation, UDM ensures that poverty reduction begins at the barangay level, where policy meets daily life. 

These graduates are more than degree earners—they are frontline decision-makers in disaster response, welfare distribution, social justice, and barangay-based livelihood programs. With their academic training, they return to their communities better prepared to implement data-driven, ethical, and people-centered governance. 

Through the ABG program, UDM reaffirms its role as a university for the people of Manila—building not just professionals, but public servants rooted in compassion, accountability, and grassroots transformation.