The University of the Philippines Visayas (UPV) through the Office of Student Affairs (OSA) welcomes the new batch of iskolars during the Orientation Program for First Year Students and Parents last August 14, 2026. The program, being one of the core services of the Guidance and Counseling Services Unit (GCSU), aimed to provide an avenue for the new students, together with their parents, to gain accurate, firsthand, and relevant information that will help them navigate their new environment in UPV and the next chapter of their academic life – college.
The activity was attended by 635 students and 301 parents at two venues: the UPV Auditorium, with the event streamed in real time for the audience at the Little Theater. During the first part of the program, University Registrar Prof. Nilo C. Araneta, discussed salient points in the university’s academic policies including the history and seal of the UPV, grading system, academic loading, dress code especially during commencement exercises, and procedural provisions based on the student’s academic status. This was then followed by a talk from Scholarship Affairs Officer Ms. Marites E. Geonanga of the Scholarship and Financial Assistance Unit (SFAU) who presented the various scholarship grants, student loan, and other forms of financial assistance that support the iskolars ng bayan.
The second part was preceded by a showcase of UPV talent as CM students Luis Rabut and Nanzrine Balsamo serenaded the crowd with acoustic music. The power couple, Dr. Rey Carlo Gonzales and Asst. Prof. Julie Prescott, served as moderators during the Panel Discussion that highlighted university student support services and student policies.
Among the panel discussants who concisely addressed the queries of both students and parents during the Open Forum were Prof. Nathaniel G. Samson, OSA Director, Prof. Kezzie Lyn B. Hilado from the Office of Gender and Development Program, Prof. Bernice Vania L. Mamauag from the Office for Anti-Sexual Harassment, Dr. Riza Subade from the Health and Services Unit (HSU), and Atty. Scarlette Joy N. Coopera-Castillon from the Legal Unit under the Office of the Chancellor, who reiterated the University’s Anti-Hazing Policy.
The Orientation Program generated good responses from the participants, highlighting the essential information gained especially on the grading system, scholarship grants available, and a profound realization that while education is a right, having access to UP education is also a privilege. In the afternoon, the same group of students took part in the psychological testing, in two batches.
The tests were administered by the University’s Guidance and Counseling Services Unit who is also in-charge of its checking and scoring. Results of the psych tests will help students gain a better understanding of their strengths and areas for improvement in terms of adjustment to college, study motivation & attitudes.
Written by Tessally V. Saquin
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