New Employee Orientation Program (Batch 1)

Embarking on a new journey can both be exciting and challenging, as it offers new opportunities for growth, while also requiring adaptation to changes to new environments. As part of the onboarding process in the University of the Philippines Manila, the Human Resource Department Office conducted a New Employee Orientation Program (NEOP) to help newly hired employees acclimate to the UP Manila community and familiarize themselves with the new environment and culture. The event was held on July 18, 2024 from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM at 8/F Social Hall, PGH Building Central Block.

The day began with HRDO Director Dr. Michael Antonio F. Mendoza, DDM, MA, welcoming newly hired employees with opening remarks. The director set the tone for the program, giving emphasis on the roles of the new employees in the university. This is followed by an engaging introduction to UP Manila’s history, core value, mission and vision, presented by Mr. Jorel A. Manalo, PTRP, MPH. Mr. Manalo presented an overview of the university’s core policies and also introduced the various offices and staff that make up the university—the backbone of UP Manila. His presentation aimed to instill to the new employees a sense of pride and responsibility. As an icebreaker, too, an interactive session followed. Each participant introduced themselves, shared their role in the university, and a word that starts with their initials that they closely associate with themselves. This fostered a sense of belonging within the newly hired employees. 

The first batch of orientation for the newly hired employees also featured presentations from key offices and organizations within the university. A number of offices engaged with HRDO to introduce their offices as well as services they offer that may be availed by the newly hired employees as UP Manila employees. 

Representatives of HRDO’s Leaves and Benefits Section started the session with a discussion on the various benefits offered to UP employees. Mr. Derick Dimpsy Palacios, Section head of the Leaves and Benefits section touched  upon the benefits and privileges available to the employees— monetary incentives such as allowances, and bonuses, and non-monetary benefits including leave entitlements, GSIS, PhilHealth, and Pag-IBIG. Retirement benefits for UPM employees were also briefly discussed.  

The session also included a presentation from Appointment, Statistics & Records Section with Mr. Arvy John L. Crescini, Section Head of Appointment, Statistic & Records Section. Besides salary and its requirements, performance appraisal or the semestral performance target evaluation was also brought up. Additionally, the HRDO website and Youtube channel were also introduced to the participants. The representatives also gave the newly hired employees a glimpse into the long-term advantages of staying in the esteemed institution. 

The afternoon session was reserved for the presentations of the Government Service Insurance System (GSIS), Home Development Mutual Fund or Pag-IBIG, AUPAEU and AUPWU or All UP Academic Employees Union and the All UP Workers Union, and UP Provident Fund, Inc.  Thorough discussions were reserved on the latter part of the workshop, with comprehensive presentations on government mandated benefits and UP employee exclusive privileges. 

Representatives from AUPAEU and AUPWU also introduced the union’s roles in advocating for the rights and welfare of every employee. Additionally, Pag-IBIG Fund Sales and Marketing team provided insights for those who would apply for new membership, as well as for those old members who need to update their master data or MSP. 

Overall, the 1st batch of NEOP - New Employee Orientation Program was a successful blend of information and interaction, equipping the newly hired employees with the access to resources and with the right aptitude to make their transition and stay to thrive at the University. The HRDO Learning & Development’s collaboration with other Units/Offices ensured the participants left with an understanding of what it means to be part of the UP Manila community.