The Diploma in Urban and Regional Planning (DURP) program at UP Visayas, in collaboration with its alumni, recently conducted interactive workshops for senior high school students from Tiolas National Science High School and San Joaquin School of Fisheries.
Funded by the UPV Office of the Vice Chancellor for Research and Education as part of its public service commitment, the workshops took place on March 24 and 26, 2026. The Office of the Continuing Education and Pahinungod provided valuable administrative support and contributed inputs that helped improve the workshop design. The sessions focused on sustainable development and introduced students to essential urban planning concepts tailored to coastal communities. Through engaging, hands-on activities, students practiced participatory planning by identifying local challenges and proposing innovative solutions.
Lead facilitator and UPV DURP alumnus Aldwin Silfavan emphasized the vital role of youth participation in shaping their municipalities. Students began with pre-tests to assess their knowledge, which were then reinforced through brief lectures, group discussions, and collaborative exercises.
Teachers noted that the workshop help promote cross-disciplinary learning by connecting varied sciences through urban planning. The students’ outputs will contribute to the Local Youth Development Plan (LYDP) and the Comprehensive Barangay Youth Development Plan (CBYDP), helping guide actionable community projects.
The workshops will resume in June 2026 with the new school term. If you are interested in learning how urban planning can impact your community’s future, consider visiting the planning offices of your local government units, universities, or private firms. You can also take the first step by enrolling in the DURP program at UP Visayas.
Written by R. Ibabao
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