Sixty-five new international exchange students were recently welcomed to the University through the UP Office of International Linkages Diliman’s (OILD) Pagsalubong: Orientation for International Exchange Students (Pagsalubong) for the 1st Semester of Academic Year (AY) 2025-2026 at the Alcantara Hall of the Student Union Building.
The students come from Austria, Canada, China, France, Japan, the Netherlands, South Korea, Sweden, and Thailand. Some of them will stay until the 2nd semester of AY 2025-2026.
UPD Chancellor Edgardo Carlo L. Vistan II emphasized that the exchange program is not only an opportunity to engage with the academic life at UP, “it is also an invitation to explore the rich cultural and natural landscape of the Philippines.”
In addition, he encouraged the students to learn the local languages, try Filipino cuisine, visit heritage sites, and enjoy nature.
“Our campus is not just a place for academic pursuits, but also for growth, friendship, and transformation,” Vistan said.
For his part, Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs Jose Carlo G. de Pano offered the students advice to support their stay in UPD.
“First, if you don’t know, ask. There are no stupid questions. We are more than glad to answer your questions. Next, if you are not okay at this point, it’s fine. You will have mixed feelings. If you need help, just inform us so we can address your concerns accordingly. Lastly, when we say we’re here for you, we’re really here for you. You can visit us at our office and talk with us,” de Pano said.
OILD staff Aura S. Carbonilla brief the students on key information about the Philippines and UPD. She also provided instructions on the final steps of visa processing and preparation of other needed documents.
OILD Program Development Associate for Student Mobility Ronel O. Laranjo then taught the foreign students some basic Filipino greetings and conversational phrases.
Meanwhile, UPD Office of Anti-Sexual Harassment Director Teresa Paula S. De Luna briefed them on the UPD Anti-Sexual Harassment Code.
“It is our goal to provide a safe space for all persons in the UPD campus. Thus, please report to our office any unwanted, unwelcome, and uninvited act that is sexual in nature,” she explained.
De Luna also urged the foreign students to report any incidents of sexual harassment they witness or experience on campus.
In his closing remarks, Laranjo said, “We hope that you will consider UPD as one of your homes, and that you will feel the warmth of Filipino hospitality as we treat you as our kapwa [neighbor].”
Pagsalubong was held on Aug. 4 and was attended by all the exchange students.
