Text by: Charmaine A. Lingdas
Photos by: January R. Kanindot
The University of the Philippines Manila Crèche celebrated a milestone in early childhood education as it held its Moving Up Ceremony on March 27, 2026, at the NTTCHP Auditorium, honoring its preschool class under the theme “Little Learners Today, Future Leaders Tomorrow.” The event gathered parents, faculty, and staff to recognize the achievements of the young learners, whose growth and development were highlighted through performances, recognition rites, and messages of inspiration.
Chancellor Michael Tee delivered a warm and reflective message, shifting the focus toward the parents who have guided their children through their earliest learning journeys.
He remarked, “Hindi naman ito para sa bata, para ito sa magulang. Congratulations! Meron na kayong unang iskolar ng bayan, first UP graduate.”
He emphasized that this aspiration reflects the strength of the UP Manila community, underscoring the idea that raising a child is a shared responsibility. In this light, he highlighted the importance of the Crèche as part of a larger support system that helps shape young learners. He also acknowledged the contributions of pediatricians behind the program—Dr. Perla Santos Ocampo, and faculty coordinator Dr. Vanessa-Maria F. Torres-Ticzon. He recognized their expertise in childcare and development and their role in building a strong foundation for the children.
He also expressed optimism for the children’s future, noting the strong foundation being built within the university environment. “I’d like to assure you, susubukan pa natin na maging mas maganda ang UP Manila para pagka lumaki ang mga chikiting natin ngayon. Ang papasukan nilang unibersidad ay mas angkop sa pangangailangan ng bayan, mas angkop sa inyong mga pangarap para sa kanila. At umaasa ako na dahil may taya kayo talaga rito, ay magtutulungan tayo para sa mas magandang kinabukasan para sa ating pamantasan,” he said, reaffirming the institution’s commitment to nurturing future generations.
The ceremony featured performances by the pre-kinder and nursery classes, showcasing poems and musical numbers that reflected both creativity and confidence among the learners. During the recognition segment, students were awarded certificates in acknowledgment of their unique strengths and multiple intelligences.
Crèche Faculty Coordinator Dr. Vanessa Maria Torres-Ticzon commended both the staff and parents for their roles in the children’s development, saying,
“We are filled with pride and happiness to everyone who has contributed to the growth of our little ones. We are overwhelmed by your love and unwavering support for our kids.”
Addressing the graduates, she shared words of encouragement as they move on to the next stage of their education: “As you move on to kindergarten, keep on learning, discovering, making friends, and being good children to your parents.”
The ceremony concluded with a message underscoring the significance of proper and supportive early education in shaping society’s future, recognizing that the students of today will become future leaders, workers, and changemakers. Continuously guiding and supporting them along the right path remains essential to ensuring a better tomorrow.
The UP Manila Crèche was founded in 1994, during the term of the former Chancellor. Dr. Perla Santos Ocampo established a nurturing space that provides preschool facilities for the children of UP Manila employees. Since then, the Crèche has served as an integral part of the institution, fostering early childhood development while enabling working parents within the university to balance their professional and family responsibilities.
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