The University of the Philippines Open University (UPOU) has appointed Mr. Larry Natividad Cruz as the new Director of Ugnayan ng Pahinungód, effective 01 March 2025. With background in management, development studies, distance education, and community engagement, Mr. Cruz aims to lead the university’s Ugnayan ng Pahinungod toward greater outreach and impact, in collaboration with all concerned offices and stakeholders.

Mr. Cruz is a Research, Extension and Professional Staff (REPS), Program Development Associate (PDA), and Senior Lecturer at UPOU’s Faculty of Management and Development Studies (FMDS). He previously served as the President of the All UP Academic Employees Union-Open University (AUPAEU-OU) Chapter, where he actively advocated for the welfare of academic employees. Before joining UPOU, he worked with a non-government organization (NGO) dedicated to improving the quality of life of marginalized Filipinos by helping them to help themselves.

With background in open and distance e-learning (ODeL) and public service initiatives, Mr. Cruz has conducted research and extension projects focused on ODeL and community engagement. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Agriculture (major in Agronomy) and a Master of Management (major in Development Management) from the University of the Philippines Los Baños (UPLB). He also earned a Post-Graduate Diploma in Agricultural Science from Lincoln University in New Zealand.

As the new Director, Mr. Cruz aims to strengthen collaborative and volunteer initiatives, expand Ugnayan ng Pahinungód’s outreach programs, and enhance the participation of faculty, staff, students, alumni and other stakeholders in volunteer service efforts.

The Ugnayan ng Pahinungód UPOU community warmly welcomes Mr. Cruz and looks forward to the meaningful initiatives and partnerships he will spearhead. His leadership is expected to further advance UPOU’s vision of being at the forefront of knowledge society as a leading institution in ODeL and its mission of widening access to quality education in line with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals 4 (Quality Education) and 17 (Partnerships for the Goals). 

Written by: Jessica A. Hernandez