College of Engineering and Architecture Welcomes Incoming Luzonians with Comprehensive Orientation

The College of Engineering and Architecture (CEA) at the University of Luzon formally commenced its academic year with the annual CEA General Orientation, which convened at the Multipurpose Hall on July 2, 2025. This pivotal gathering, serving as the inaugural event for the college each academic cycle, was designed to introduce freshmen and transferees from the seven departments of the College to the University’s culture, expectations, and support mechanisms. The orientation was structured into two distinct segments to accommodate the large influx of incoming Luzonians: a morning session was dedicated to freshmen, while an afternoon session welcomed transferees who enrolled during the summer term of Academic Year 2024-2025 and the first semester of Academic Year 2025-2026. Guiding the proceedings as event hosts were Justin Lawrence Arias and Darlene Joy Ocampo, both exemplary students from the Department of Chemical Engineering.

The program began with traditional formalities, including the presentation of Audio-Visual materials for the doxology, the Philippine National Anthem, and the revered University of Luzon (UL) Hymn. Following this, Engr. Geronimo Carvajal, the esteemed CEA Dean, delivered his opening remarks, setting an encouraging tone for the incoming cohort. A presentation on the UL Powerhouse provided the new students with a comprehensive overview of the institution’s key achievements and standing. A central part of the orientation was the introduction of student leaders from various CEA interest clubs. This segment was adeptly managed by Erick Nikolai Guiang and Raine Gianah Valdez, the immediate past presidents of the CEA Student Council. Their presence underscored the value of student governance, culminating in the CEA Student Council officially recognizing Mr. Guiang with a plaque of appreciation for his significant and vital contributions to the college’s leadership throughout the preceding academic year.

Furthermore, the orientation was carefully calibrated to inform freshmen and transferees about the crucial services available across the University of Luzon campus. Three specialized speakers delineated the roles of their respective departments: Prof. Margie Viado, Guidance Designate, discussed the offerings of the Guidance Center; Prof. Nash Aquino, Assistant Director of the Office of Student Affairs and Services (OSAS), provided insights into OSAS functions, alongside a brief but important discussion on the Office of the University Registrar and Cultural Scholarships; and Prof. Darwin Juguilon, Extension Services In-House Coordinator, introduced the opportunities available through the Out-of-School activities.

The highlight of the comprehensive program was the address delivered by this year’s guest speaker, Architect Melchor Serapion, a distinguished professional whose message centered on the profound importance of self-belief and recognizing one’s latent capabilities as the foundation for achieving professional and personal distinction. Architect Serapion was subsequently honored with a plaque of recognition for his inspiring talk. The afternoon session also featured an intermission number from Kimberly Claveria, providing a moment of cultural appreciation. The day’s formal activities concluded with Engr. Ildefonso Manuel delivering the closing remarks, signaling the official start of a promising academic journey for all CEAnians.

The College of Engineering and Architecture’s General Orientation directly supports several global Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) established by the United Nations. By providing a comprehensive introduction to academic life and institutional services, the event aligns strongly with SDG 4: Quality Education, ensuring inclusive and equitable education and promoting lifelong learning opportunities for all Luzonians. The emphasis from Dean Carvajal and guest speaker Architect Serapion on developing individual capabilities and achieving greater professional heights is fundamentally linked to SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth, as the college trains students for high-skilled technical careers that contribute to productive employment and global economic output. Finally, the segment detailing the availability of the Guidance Center, OSAS, and Cultural Scholarships, alongside the formal recognition of student leaders, underscores a commitment to fostering institutional support and reducing barriers, thereby contributing to SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities by ensuring all incoming students have equitable access to resources critical for success.