Around 250 UPLB Research, Extension, and Professional Staff (REPS) convened on April 15 for their 7th General Assembly, where they shared personal experiences, insights, and aspirations about their roles within the university.

REPS are unique within the UP System as they are classified as academic non-teaching staff. They focus on research, extension, professional services, and other activities, excluding teaching. 

Every year, UPLB, through the Office of the Vice Chancellor for Research and Extension, conducts a general assembly for the REPS sector. This year’s assembly was held at the UPLB CAS Annex 1 Auditorium.

The assembly serves as a platform for dialogue and updates on policies and services for REPS’ welfare and professional development. 

This year, Vice Chancellor for Research and Extension Nathaniel C. Bantayan highlighted in his message that the assembly would offer a “better alternative to the usual presentation,” introducing a panel discussion as the focus of the event.

The panel discussion titled “REPS Experiences, Challenges, and Aspirations” provided a candid look into the realities faced by UPLB REPS. 

It featured representatives from each REPS sub-sector: Dr. Lucille Elna P. de Guzman, Scientist I, and Ms. Sairah Mae R. Saipudin, University Research Associate I (research); Ms. Beverly R. Pabro, University Extension Specialist I (extension); and Ms. Mikhaella D. Javier, Librarian I (professional staff). Dr. Mary Ann M. Ingua, University Librarian and UPLB REPS Welfare

Council (RWC) member, moderated the discussion.

The panelists shared their common experiences and challenges as REPS, their desired administrative support, and proposed policy changes they would like to see implemented.

Following the panel discussion, Asst. Prof. Jason F. Pozon, President of the All UP Academic Employees Union – Los Baños, provided attendees with updates on policies relevant to the REPS sector. 

Ms. Gilanda S. Parungao, secretariat and member of the UPLB REPS Personnel and Fellowship Committee (RPFC), led a reorientation on UPLB REPS hiring processes.

A key element of the assembly was the opening of elections for the new RWC and RPFC members, following the expiration of the previous members’ terms on March 31, 2025. 

The RPFC’s responsibilities include reviewing REPS appointments, tenure, and promotions, as well as fellowships, leaves, and screening non-DOST S&T personnel for nepotism exemptions. 

The RWC, on the other hand, recommends policies covering appointments, tenureship,  to separation—along with benefits and welfare programs. It also leads consultations with REPS, assists with welfare concerns, and establishes sectoral linkages.

The newly elected RWC and RPFC members will be announced after the official voting and upon the release of their official appointments. (Ana Margarita S. Palma)