Driven by their dreams of studying at the University of the Philippines, over 1,000 senior high school students from Northern Mindanao took a significant step toward becoming Iskolar ng Bayan by joining the University of the Philippines College Admission Test (UPCAT) Simulation held from 23 to 26 June 2025.

Organized by the Ugnayan ng Pahinungód of the UP Open University (UPOU) in partnership with the Department of Education (DepEd) Region X, the simulation gave students the chance not only to familiarize themselves with UPCAT procedures, protocols, and guidelines but also to gain valuable tips and motivation for the actual exam.

Four simultaneous sessions were conducted at Bulua National High School (NHS) in Cagayan de Oro on 23 June, Bangcud NHS  in Bukidnon on 24 June, Iligan City East NHS in Iligan on 25 June, and Ozamiz City NHS on 26 June. 

A total of 1,180 senior high school students from 20 high schools participated in the simulation. These schools included Bulua NHS, Bangcud NHS, Bukidnon NHS, Valencia NHS, Quezon Bukidnon Comprehensive NHS, Manolo Fortich NHS, Iligan City East NHS, Lala NHS, Iligan City NHS, Mindanao State University – Iligan Institute of Technology Integrated Developmental School, Ozamiz City NHS, Aloran Trade High School, Misamis Occidental NHS, Looc NHS, San Antonio NHS, Sinusa Integrated School, Ozamiz City School of Arts and Trades, Tangub City NHS, Lanao Del Norte National Comprehensive High School, and Clarin NHS.

The simulation exam was patterned after the actual UPCAT, with 75 items divided into four subtests: Language and Proficiency, Science, Mathematics, and Reading Comprehension, each with time limits. Four staff and faculty volunteers from UPOU, Asst. Prof. Blancaflor Arada, Asst. Prof. Queenie Ridulme, Asst. Prof. Lloyd Simporios, and Ms. Anna Mhari Duria, along with the Pahinungód staff, served as proctors and examiners during the simulation.

Strengthening Partnership for Quality Education

Prior to the simulations, the Pahinungód team met with key officials from DepEd Region X for a courtesy visit and to report the results of the Online Bridge Program and the E-Guro Introductory Course on 23 June. It was attended by DepEd Regional Director (RD) Dr. Arturo Bayocot, Assistant Regional Director Federico Martin, and ten Education Program Supervisors from the Curriculum and Learning Management Division (CLMD). The UP Open University (UPOU) delegates were led by Mr. Larry N. Cruz, Director of Ugnayan ng Pahinungód UPOU.

The presentation of results was facilitated by Ms. Iarra Mae de Silva and Ms. Jurell Ordanes. RD Bayocot emphasized the relevance of both programs in strengthening the foundational skills of senior high school students in English, Mathematics, and Physics, as well as furthering the professional development of K to 3 teachers.

A Step Toward Accessible UP Education

The UPCAT Simulation initiative, complemented by the UPCAT 2026 Online Orientation, plays a vital role in making the UP admission process easier to understand for hundreds of aspiring students. By giving them first-hand experience of the exam structure, protocols, and guidelines, this program helps reduce anxiety and build confidence, especially that this is their first time taking the UPCAT. 

Beyond test preparation, this initiative also gives hope, particularly to students who are the first in their families to aspire for a UP education. For many, the UPCAT can feel intimidating or even out of reach but through simulations like these, students not only learn how to take the test but also begin to see themselves as truly capable of passing it. 

This UPCAT Simulation is a first step toward making higher education more accessible to future Iskolars ng Bayan, regardless of their background or location. It serves as both a practical tool and a source of empowerment for students determined to create a better future for themselves and their families.

Written by: Iarra Mae D. de Silva ♦ Edited by: Larry N. Cruz