UP Celebrates Exceptional Scientific Contributions with SPS Awards

The University of the Philippines (UP) recently honored a remarkable batch of researchers at the UP Scientific Productivity System (UP SPS) Awarding Ceremony. Held on January 10, 2025, in the Teatro Ignacio B. Gimenez-Kolehiyo ng Arte at Literatura in UP Diliman, the ceremony celebrated 153 scientists who have demonstrated outstanding scientific productivity.

The Scientific Elite Recognized at UP

A total of 153 awardees received titles of UP Scientist I, II, and III based on their accomplishments. Among them, 34 achieved the highest distinction of UP Scientist III, 19 were designated as UP Scientist II, and 100 received the title of UP Scientist I. Notably, 72 of the awardees were first-time recipients, while the remaining 81 had their awards renewed.

UP Scientific Productivity System: Driving Innovation

The UP Scientific Productivity System (UP SPS) was established to recognize and incentivize research excellence. The system was approved by the UP Board of Regents in 2005, based on disciplines included in the Scientific Career System in the Philippine Civil Service. The SPS evaluates scientific productivity, defined as scientific and technological output and professional standing within the past five years.

“No other institution in this country has this much concentration of PhD holders, of scientists, than ours,” said UP President Angelo Jimenez in his keynote speech. “That is the fundamental element of our differentiating strategy. We need to maximize our research power.”