SAN ILDEFONSO, Bulacan — Bulacan Agricultural State College (BASC), through the Office of Student Affairs and Services–Student Welfare Services Unit (OSAS-SWSU), officially welcomed its newest members of the academic community as the two-day KANDILI: Kanlungan ng Diwa at Lipi Orientation for Academic Year 2026–2027 commenced on July 22, at the BASC Multi-Purpose Gymnasium. The orientation continues the following day, July 23, to accommodate students from the remaining colleges and institutes.

Designed to ease the transition of incoming freshmen and transferees into university life, the orientation introduces students to BASC’s academic policies, student services, campus facilities, and support programs while fostering a sense of belonging and readiness as they begin their academic journey.

The activity is spearheaded by the Office of Student Affairs and Services–Student Welfare Services Unit (OSAS-SWSU), headed by Ms. Anna Marie Jennifer D. Gudadhe, Head of OSAS-SWSU and College Psychologist, together with Ms. Sunshine Joy N. Benosa, Guidance Counselor; Ms. Ma. Pinky I. Villacorte, faculty from the Institute of Arts and Sciences; and the other OSAS-SWSU personnel. The orientation is conducted in collaboration with the University Student Council (USC), led by USC President Jairus Jireh Sayson, whose officers assist in welcoming and engaging the new students throughout the activity.

The first day caters to freshmen and transferees from the College of Education (CoEd), College of Management (CM), and the Institute of Arts and Sciences (IAS). On Day 2, the orientation continues for incoming students from the Institute of Computer Studies (ICS), College of Engineering and Technology (CET), College of Agriculture (CA), and the Institute of Veterinary Medicine (IVM).

Participants are introduced to the College’s wide range of academic and student support services, including guidance and counseling, health services, scholarship opportunities, library resources, campus safety, student organizations, dormitory application procedures, and other essential programs designed to help students thrive academically and personally.

The opening program began with the singing of the Philippine National Anthem and an invocation led by the BASC Alunig Chorale, under the direction of Mr. Guilberto Villacorte Jr., setting a solemn and inspiring atmosphere for the orientation. Dr. Cecilia S. Santiago, Vice President for Academic Affairs, delivered an inspiring message encouraging the students to embrace the opportunities and challenges of college life with resilience, discipline, and a steadfast commitment to academic excellence.

The program also featured the introduction of faculty members and staff from the different colleges and institutes, allowing incoming students to become acquainted with the academic community that will guide and mentor them throughout their stay at BASC. Adding color to the program was a cultural intermission by the BASC Liping Tagalog Folkloric Group (LTFG), showcasing the BASC’s rich cultural footing. The morning session concluded with the closing remarks of Dr. Jennifer P. Adriano, Director of the Office of Student Affairs and Services, who encouraged students to actively participate in academic, leadership, and co-curricular activities while upholding the College’s core values.

As part of the orientation, Mr. Jose Ferdinand F. Toledo, Assistant Regional Director for Operations of the National Intelligence Coordinating Agency Region III (NICA-III), and Ms. Dada Cervantes of the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC) serve as guest speakers during the security orientation. Their discussions focus on campus security, national security awareness, and responsible citizenship, equipping students with valuable insights as they begin their university life.

In the afternoon of both orientation days, students participate in the Organization Recruitment Activity Program (ORAP), where recognized student organizations present their programs, advocacies, and activities, giving freshmen and transferees opportunities to connect with student leaders, explore their interests, and become actively involved in campus life.

More than an orientation, KANDILI serves as BASC’s first expression of care and commitment to its new students. By introducing them to the College community, programs, and support systems, the activity lays the foundation for a meaningful and successful university experience. Through initiatives like this, BASC continues to cultivate a welcoming, inclusive, and student-centered learning environment where every student is empowered to grow, excel, and make a positive impact on society.

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