WPU-Office for Cultural Inclusivity

17/10/2025

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to President Dr. Amabel S. Liao for her leadership in launching the multi-faith prayer project. Spearheaded by Dr. Nhelbourne K. Mohammad, Director of the Office for Cultural Inclusivity (OCI), this initiative introduces "The Roster of Recommended Prayers for University Events," a resource designed to foster an inclusive and respectful environment.

The roster includes prayers from major religious populations as identified by SAS data, such as a Christian Prayer, a Muslim Prayer (Du'a), and an Indigenous Tagbanua Prayer, with plans to continually expand its diversity. To further this goal, a dedicated multi-faith prayer will be added to the roster soon.

24/09/2025

Dr. Lita Sopsop, Vice President for Academic Affairs, visited Dr. NK Mohammad, the Director of the Office for Cultural Inclusivity, for the ISO audit.

This Office for Cultural Inclusivity (OCI) was recently established to support our indigenous and Muslim students, promoting diversity, respect, and mutual understanding. This is our first ISO audit for this office.

24/09/2025

Dr. NK Mohammad, Director of the OCI, has established the Cultural Inclusivity Students’ Association (CISA) with the permission of our esteemed University President, Dr. Amabel S. Liao, at Western Philippines University's Main Campus in Aborlan, Palawan.

CISA aims to promote respect, interfaith dialogue, and mutual understanding for our Indigenous and Muslim students, aligning with the WPU's holistic objectives.
CISA is in the process of accreditation. Consequently, students from distinct ethnicities are also welcome.
In the future will establish from different WPU campuses to promote equality and inclusion for all students.

23/09/2025

A meaningful day at the Office for Cultural Inclusivity as we welcomed IP and Muslim student leaders from Mangsee, Balabac, Españiola and Rizal.

They had a productive discussion with our Director, Dr. NK Mohammad, on the vital importance of their educational journey. The students also toured our office, explored the support programs we offer, and visited our dedicated prayer space.

It was an inspiring dialogue, reinforcing our commitment to ensuring a supportive and inclusive campus environment for all. We are honored to be a part of their academic success!

10/09/2025

The Office for Cultural Inclusivity Director, Dr. NK Mohammad, was invited this morning (Sept 10) by the DSWD-4Ps Provincial Operations Office in Puerto Princesa City to discuss a meaningful collaboration between the Office for Cultural Inclusivity of Western Philippines University and the Aisyiyah Women’s Association in the Philippines, Inc.

We extend our gratitude to the DSWD Palawan team, including Ms. Nessie Cory B. Palao (Cluster 3 – Social Welfare Officer III), Ms. Julie Ann U. Riva (Cluster 1 – Social Welfare Officer III), and Mr. Eddie Cañete (Cluster Compliance Verification Officer), for facilitating this significant dialogue.

The meeting focused on potential initiatives to support Indigenous Peoples (IP) and Muslim minority communities in South Palawan, particularly those in the remote island areas far from the mainland.

The possible collaboration aims to conduct research and implement community-driven activities that promote cultural inclusivity, social welfare, and sustainable development.

Together, we strive to create impactful programs that recognize and uphold the rights and heritage of these communities while addressing their unique needs.

30/08/2025

Manila Mayor Francisco "Isko Moreno" Domagoso expressed his support for the proposed creation of a "Halal Town" in Manila that will showcase traditional Halal foods to the public as part of the city government's expanded efforts to strengthen its ties with the Muslim community.

READ: https://mb.com.ph/2025/08/30/mayor-isko-eyes-creation-of-halal-town-in-manila

26/08/2025

Dr. Nhelbourne K. Mohammad, courtesy of the SSC Federation and Main Campus President Bhea Vannesa R. Ombe, and accompanied by Campus Guidance Coordinator Ms. Len, convened a meeting.

The discussion focused on establishing the new Cultural Inclusivity Students Association (CISA) program to support Indigenous Peoples (IP) and Muslim minority students at Western Philippines University's Main Campus.

The election for the new CISA officers will be held tomorrow at approximately 12:00 PM.
IP students interested in joining are encouraged to visit the Office for Cultural Inclusivity (OCI) on the ground floor of the Palao Building and inquire with Ms. Quenie A. Mohammad, the OCI administrative staff.

25/08/2025

At Western Philippines University, we believe heroism is not confined to history—it lives in classrooms, fields, seas, and communities where Filipinos rise to challenges with courage and heart.

This National Heroes Day, we celebrate the heroes of our history and the everyday champions among us.

18/08/2025

Building bridges at WPU! 🌉 Thrilled to share Director Dr. Nhelbourne K. Mohammad met with Indigenous student leaders (Molbog, Tagbanua, Palaw'an, Cuyunon, and minority Muslim) to shape the new Cultural Inclusivity Students Association (CISA) vision.
🙏Grateful for the full support of University President Dr. Amabel S. Liao! ✨

The Cultural Inclusivity Students Association (CISA) aims to:
1-Preserve & Celebrate: Honor and promote the unique cultures, languages, and traditions of Molbog, Tagbanua, Palaw'an, Cuyunon, and other Indigenous as well as Muslim students.

2-Amplify Voices: Ensure Indigenous student perspectives are heard and represented across campus.

3-Advocate for Inclusion: Promote a welcoming and supportive environment for all cultural backgrounds at WPU.

4-Educate the Community: Share Indigenous knowledge and heritage to foster understanding campus-wide.

5-Build Community: Create a strong support network for Indigenous students.

11/08/2025

Karangalan ng Lungsod ng Maynila na tanggapin ngayong araw si Tuan Yang Terutama Tun Seri Setia (Dr.) Haji Mohd Ali Bin Mohd Rustam, Governor ng State of Malacca, Malaysia, kasama si His Excellency Dato’ Abdul Malik Melvin Castelino Anthony, Ambassador ng Malaysia, at kanilang delegasyon.

Nagkaroon tayo ng makabuluhang talakayan tungkol sa posibilidad ng pagtatayo ng isang “Halal Town” sa Maynila — dagdag sa ating Chinatown sa Binondo at Koreatown sa Malate — upang lalo pang mapaunlad ang respeto sa kultura, turismo, at kalakalan sa ating lungsod.

Lubos din nilang pinuri ang ating Manila Islamic Cemetery and Cultural Hall, ang kauna-unahang islamic burial ground sa kabisera ng bansa — isang mahalagang hakbang sa pagkilala at paglilingkod sa ating kapatid na Muslim.

Sa Maynila, buo ang ating paninindigan na walang maiiwan — lahat ay pinahahalagahan at nire-respeto.

(Photos by Jurek Castro/MPIO)

10/08/2025

A heartfelt congratulations to our University President Dr. Amabel Liao on being named as a member of the Board of Directors of Red Cross Palawan! Your heart for service and tireless efforts to uplift others truly shine.

Your WPU family is proud of you! 👏

A heartfelt congratulations to our University President Dr. Amabel Liao on being named as a member of the Board of Directors of Red Cross Palawan! Your heart for service and tireless efforts to uplift others truly shine.

Your WPU family is proud of you!