𝗔𝗖𝗖 𝗢𝗽𝗲𝗻𝘀 𝗗𝗼𝗼𝗿𝘀 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗛𝗲𝗮𝗿𝘁𝘀 𝘁𝗼 𝗡𝗲𝘄 ACCians 𝗮𝘁 𝗚𝗲𝗻𝗲𝗿𝗮𝗹 𝗢𝗿𝗶𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 by Iris Anne Oliveron

With open arms and hopeful hearts, Abuyog Community College (ACC) warmly welcomed first year, transferees, returnees from both board (Teacher-Education and Criminology), and non-board program (Entrepreneurship and Hospitality Management and Information Technology) students for the school year 2025–2026 during the Students’ General Orientation held at the ACC open gymnasium on July 23–24.

The two-day orientation aimed to equip new ACCians with crucial knowledge about the institution’s policies, programs, and student support services—all vital to a smooth and successful transition to college life.

Kicking off the program was a heartfelt welcome message from College President Dr. Clemelle Montallana, who underscored the value of persistence and dedication in the pursuit of academic success.

Adding excitement to the atmosphere, the ACC Dance Troupe energized the crowd with their spirited performance of the trending hit “Laban na may Puso”, setting the tone for a day filled with information and inspiration.

Know the Campus, Know Your Future

VP for Administration and Finance, Prof. Shiela V. Posas led the introductory segment, conducting a roll call of the incoming students, introducing the school administrators, faculty, and staff, and walking the audience through the rich history of Abuyog Community College—a testament to its commitment to accessible and transformative education.

The orientation proper featured a series of informative sessions:

• Admissions Policy by College Registrar Mrs. Marlisa B. Riños
• Academic Guidelines by VP for Academic Affairs Dr. Edita D. Vale
• UNIFAST Law explained by UNIFAST Coordinator, Mr. Gerry S. Gohil and Research Coordinator, Engr. Juancho Tesado
• Administrative Policy by Executive Vice-president, Dr. Asuncion M. Villote
• Student Discipline Code by Prefect of Discipline, Prof. Bimbo Solayao

Students also got a primer on campus services—from scholarships, library and MIS access, to health services, sports programs, and student organizations, setting them up for a well-rounded college life.

Getting to Know, Gearing to Grow

In the afternoon, students broke into program-based sessions where they met their advisers and peers. These intimate discussions highlighted program expectations, academic opportunities, and tips for thriving in their chosen disciplines.

For many first-year students, it was a day of mixed emotions. Merry Cris Bausal Alipante, a freshman Bachelor of Social Studies, shared:

“It’s a bit of fun, though; I feel nervous entering here, but looking at the faces of my classmates, I feel relief.”

Likewise, Winston Niemes admitted to feeling both thrilled and anxious:

“Very happy because I’m being oriented and also kinukulba at the same time kay ma-start na it klase.”

A New Chapter Begins

The General Orientation was more than just an information drive—it was a celebration of new beginnings, a bridge from uncertainty to readiness, and a first step toward building meaningful college experiences. With each speaker, performance, and shared smile, the ACC community reaffirmed its commitment to nurture every learner’s potential.

As the new academic year unfolds, Abuyog Community College remains steadfast in its mission to foster not just intellectual growth, but also holistic development—where students are not only informed but empowered, not just welcomed, but uplifted.

Indeed, the journey has just begun—and for these new ACCians, the future has never looked brighter.