As part of the University’s efforts to democratize access to UP education, the Ugnayan ng Pahinungód UPOU successfully conducted the UPCAT 2026 Online Orientation last 26 March 2025 via Zoom Video Conferencing Platform. This initiative aimed to provide essential information about the University of the Philippines, as well as its constituent units and the UP College Admission Test. Around 150 Grade 11 students from Northern Mindanao attended the orientation. 

The program, hosted by Ms. Naomi Jean Unlayao and Ms. Jezreel Anne Cometa, commenced with welcoming remarks from the newly appointed UPOU Chancellor, Prof. Joane V. Serrano. PhD. In her address, she emphasized the university’s commitment to reaching out to students “who are eager to learn, who are driven by curiosity, and who are not afraid to introduce changes in their own communities.” 

Chancellor Joane V. Serrano delivering her welcoming remarks

Associate Professor Francisco N. De Los Reyes provided an in-depth discussion on UP and the university’s admission process. He introduced the nine UP campuses, highlighting each own expertise. His presentation focused on the University of the Philippines College Admission Test (UPCAT), including application requirements, deadlines, available programs, and scholarship opportunities. Director De Los Reyes also encouraged the students to not be afraid of taking the UPCAT by saying “maging matapang tayo, huwag tayo mahiya, ilaban natin ito.”

Associate Professor Francisco N. De Los Reyes discussing the UP admission process

The second half of the program focused on UP Open University’s undergraduate and associate degree programs and the admission process in UPOU. This was presented by Asst. Prof. Luisa A. Gelisan, University Registrar of UPOU. She highlighted the flexibility of UPOU’s programs, which allow students to study remotely while still benefiting from UP’s quality education.

Asst. Prof. Luisa A. Gelisan discussing the UPOUs undergraduate programs and admission process

The presentation of the two speakers was followed by an open forum facilitated by Ms. Iarra Mae de Silva. During this part, students had the opportunity to ask questions and seek clarification about the UP admission process. Questions were mostly about the completion of requirements and the computation of UPG in UPCAT. Students also asked for advice and tips from the resource speakers on selecting the campus and courses for their application.

Ms. Iarra Mae de Silva facilitating the Open Forum

The event concluded with the awarding of e-certificates to the speakers and closing remarks from Mr. Larry N. Cruz, newly appointed Director of Ugnayan ng Pahinungód UPOU. He encouraged students to “take on the challenge of taking the UPCAT with confidence and determination knowing that the doors of UP are open to talented and driven individuals.” 

Director Larry N. Cruz delivering his closing remarks

The UPCAT 2026 Online Orientation successfully provided students with the necessary knowledge to navigate the UP admission process, making higher education more accessible to aspiring Iskolars ng Bayan. The event is in support of United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) 4 (Quality Education) and 17 (Partnerships for the Goals).

Written by Iarra Mae D. de Silva ♦ Edited by: Jessica A. Hernandez & Larry N. Cruz