By: Ania Iries M. Inot | April 16, 2026
Organized by the University of the Philippines Circle of Home Economists (UP CHEc), in partnership with the Department of Home Economics Education, the Home Economics Lecture Series (HEELS) addresses contemporary challenges through the lens of Home Economics. The series provided educators and participants with practical life skills. This semester’s series is focused on navigating the digital information age to implementing sustainable food systems.
The first installment, titled "Life Skills in the Age of Information Barrage," was held on March 7, 2026, and featured Dr. Aurora S. Llige. The session was designed to help participants examine the role of Home Economics in addressing the rapid spread of unverified information on digital and social media. By promoting critical awareness and digital resilience, the webinar sought to equip individuals and communities with the mental clarity necessary to navigate "information noise" responsibly.
The second installment, "Gulayan: Supporting Nutrition, Enhancing Livelihood, and Promoting Sustainability," took place on March 14, 2026. This webinar provided a comprehensive look at urban and peri-urban gardening across three key sectors: the home (Gulayan sa Tahanan), the school (Gulayan sa Paaralan), and the community (Gulayan sa Pamayanan). Through presentations by Dr. Aurora Llige, Asst. Prof. Joe Amiel Benson Ferrer, Asst. Prof. Irish Achondo, and Asst. Prof. Justin Godfred Peralta, the program covered both the evolution of gardening and its technicalities, anchored in agricultural principles and government policy. In this installment, participants learned about the integral role of Home Economics in nutrition and livelihood, and the value of gardening for sustainable living.
Throughout the series, the organizers emphasized continuous engagement and practical application. Participants were encouraged to gather takeaways and participate in an open forum where experts addressed questions ranging from practical tips for students to low-cost gardening models for schools with limited space. By addressing the complexities of rapid modern changes, the series empowers educators and individuals to foster resilience and promote community-wide sustainability. Through these collaborative discussions, Home Economics continues to demonstrate its essential role in equipping Filipinos with the life skills needed to thrive amid 21st-century challenges.
Throughout the series, the organizers emphasized continuous engagement and practical application. Participants were encouraged to gather takeaways and participate in an open forum where experts addressed questions ranging from practical tips for students to low-cost gardening models for schools with limited space. By addressing the complexities of rapid modern changes, the series empowers educators and individuals to foster resilience and promote community-wide sustainability. Through these collaborative discussions, Home Economics continues to demonstrate its essential role in equipping Filipinos with the life skills needed to thrive amid 21st-century challenges.