Freshmen begin their UA&P story in Freshstart 2026: Dragon's Arc
Freshstart, the University of Asia and the Pacific’s 3-day freshman orientation, welcomed over 250 incoming College and Junior College students from July 27 to 29. This year’s theme, “Dragon’s Arc,” marked the beginning of a chapter filled with new characters, settings, and lessons that were introduced through a series of activities.
The orientation was made possible through the efforts of UA&P PEER, the student arm of the Office of Guidance and Counseling, alongside the various offices of the university, who spent the midyear planning and preparing for the program. The arm comprises students who once stood in the freshmen’s shoes and have since decided to use the skills and character they built in the university to create the same opportunity for a new batch of students.
The first day began with programs designed to acquaint the students with the identity and culture of UA&P. University President Atty. Philip Yeung gave the welcoming remarks and shared how the university’s core values prepared him to lead his own alma mater. His speech was followed by a talk by Assistant Chaplain Fr. Gary Soria, who connected the University’s Catholic identity with the theme and mission of Freshstart. The opening program also featured a panel discussion where students, Jaron Pomer, Malix Dumlao, and Alvaro Cordero shared their insights on the spirit of Unitas within UA&P’s academics, athletics, and activities. The freshmen then showed their competitive spirit by participating in a quiz bee on the academic policies and mechanics of the university. Lastly, the students met the deans and program directors of their respective schools to learn about the programs awaiting them in the next few years.
The second day of Freshstart centered on the services, offices, and structures available to help students thrive in the university. First, the IT Office and Quality Assurance Office guided the students through UA&P’s essential online platforms, Canvas and Edusuite. The freshmen then competed in an Amazing Race where they explored the campus through a series of challenges and games held in key spaces of the school. Afterwards, the Center for Student Affairs introduced the LIFE Program, the units, and the offices that aid the students’ holistic development. The final talk of the day showcased UA&P’s unique mentoring program and the nearby study centers available outside of school.
Freshstart concluded with a celebration of the community and experience present in the university. With chants and cheers, UA&P’s drumline, Wildfire, welcomed the freshmen to the Parking and Sports Building (PSB), where student interest groups gathered to showcase the different opportunities, activities, and teams present outside the classroom. Finally, Freshstart’s closing program marked the end of the orientation with a fashion show of business casual outfits and performances by UA&P Chorale, Reverb Music Productions, Squadra, and UA&P PEER. The segment ended in the Li Seng Giap Auditorium, where cameras flashed as students captured memories of their start in the university.
Over 3 days, Freshstart equipped the newest members of the UA&P community with the knowledge, friendships, and confidence to begin college life. As Entry Batch 2026 turns the first page of its story, the chapters that follow are now theirs to write.
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