CATBALOGAN CITY, Philippines — Laughter echoed across the campus, and dreams found a place to grow as Samar Colleges, Inc. officially welcomed its newest students through PAGTAPO 2026: Samar Collegian Welcome Fest and Academic Kick-Off Program held at SC Quadrangle and SC Auditorium on July 13, 2026.

Designed to make the freshmen's transition from high school to college easier, the project, spearheaded by the Office of Student Affairs and Services (OSAS) in partnership with various academic departments and student support units, offered more than just an introduction to campus life—providing an opportunity to experience the Samar Collegian community firsthand.

The event immersed students in activities that encouraged learning, participation, and a sense of belonging, like the colorful Booth Fair in the morning, held at the SC Quadrangle, featuring the different programs and services the institution offers. The activity also came with an opening program, making the celebration come alive with engaging games and interactive activities.

The Booth Fair was participated mainly by SC OSAS office/units including the Guidance Counseling Services Department (GCSD), Library Unit, Medical/Dental Unit, Scholarship Programs, Supreme Student Council (SSC), Tertiary Student Publication (The Samar Collegian), Culture and Arts Programs, Sports Development Program, Gender and Development Program, and National Service Training Program (NSTP), along with the different colleges such as the Samar College Technological Institute (SCTI), College of Information Technology and Allied Sciences (CITAS), College of Liberal Arts and Sciences (CLAS), College of Business and Management (CBM), College of Education (COED), and College of Criminal Justice Education (COCJE).

This was followed by one of the event’s main highlights, the Campus Tour, which guided freshmen through the institution's classrooms, library, offices, and other key facilities. More than simply familiarizing students with the campus, the tour served as their first step toward feeling at home in an environment that will shape them toward their future professions through their academic journey.

In the afternoon, the main highlight was the Opening Convocation, held at the SC Auditorium where college administrators, faculty members, and student leaders warmly welcomed the newest batch of Samar Collegians.

Words of welcome was formally delivered by the Senior Vice-President (SVP) for Programs Development and Quality Assurance, Dr. Marilyn Cardoso, followed by the School President, Mr. Rhett Caesar Piczon’s message of inspiration emphasizing the values of excellence, integrity, resilience, and service, which encouraged students to embrace every opportunity, overcome challenges with determination, and make the most of their college experience.

The OIC Dean of OSAS, Mr. Jerick Cuevas presented the school key officials, particularly, the management and executive committees, followed by the presentation of the college faculty members by the SSC Adviser, Ms. Charnym Toleran, introducing the freshmen to the experienced professionals who will help them throughout their academic journey.

A brief orientation of SC’s programs and services was also given by Mr. Roque Villarin, Director for Campus Communication and External Services and NSTP Coordinator to ensure everyone can transition smoothly and navigate through the new environment.

The ceremony also featured a part where freshmen formally declared their dedication to academic, personal, and ethical growth by reciting the Freshmen Pledge of Commitment, led by the SSC President, Mr. Joshua Tayong. The purpose is to instill with them a strong sense of belonging, set clear behavioral expectation, and to foster a sense of community even before day one.

Finally, the closing remarks delivered by the SVP for Student Cultural and External Affairs, Dr. Meldrito Valles, wished the freshmen best of luck as they begin the new academic year and congratulated them for being officially one with the Samar Collegian community.

The PAGTAPO 2026 reflected SC's commitment to creating a supportive and student-centered environment as it was carefully designed to help freshmen build and begin their college life with enthusiasm and purpose.

As the event concluded, what started as a gathering of unfamiliar faces had transformed into a community united by shared dreams and aspirations. For the freshmen, PAGTAPO 2026 marked not only the opening of a new academic year but also the beginning of a journey filled with growth, discovery, lifelong friendships, and endless possibilities.