The University of the Philippines in partnership with the Bani Municipal Government and in coordination with the Department of Education, Bani District formally launched the Bani Learning Center, University of the Philippines Open University (UPOU) at Bani East Central School on August 29, 2007.

The establishment of the UPOU is a priority project of the newly elected mayor of Bani, Hon. Marcelo E. Navarro Jr. with the support of the Sangguniang Bayan headed by Vice Mayor Hannibal S. Olores. The said event came successfully barely after two months of office of Mayor Navarro whose administration is focused on governance through quality health, education, livelihood, peace and order, and self-reliance. (HELPS).

On the forefront of the first of its kind affair was Dr. Victoria Bautista, who came with her UPOU staff. Other personalities who graced the occasion were Atty. Ayar Montemayor and Mr. Raffy Baraan who represented Congressman Arthur Celeste and Governor Espino respectively. Other leaders who showed support came from the office of the Provincial Board Members Danilo Dizon and Alice Pulido and mayors of the neighboring towns of Agno, Anda, Burgos, Dasol and Infanta. Others present were personnel from DepEd, PNP, municipal government, barangay officials and religious leaders.

Dr. Elpidio P. Calixtro, district supervisor welcomed the guests. In his welcome address, he expressed his appreciation to the municipal mayor for bringing the UPOU right at the doorstep of Bani and the neighboring towns. This he said has ignited the flame of hope for the people in the town to develop academically, professionally and economically.

The highlight of the occasion was the presentation of the UP Oblation by UPOU Vice Chancellor, Dr. Victoria Bautista to Mayor Navarro. Such gesture served as a symbol of genuine partnership in bringing quality services to the people of Bani and its neighboring towns.

Dr. Milagros O. Opolento, Principal of San Jose Elementary School hosted the occasion, which culminated with the cutting of ribbon and blessing of the Bani Learning Center-UPOU. Rev. Fr. Mario Lito Ferrer officiated the blessing. (Celestino Ngayawon, DepEd)