IN PREPARATION for the opening of Academic Year 2026–2027, San Beda College Alabang (SBCA) conducted orientation and reorientation programs for incoming freshmen and returning tertiary students at the St. Maur Auditorium on July 13 and 14 to familiarize them with academic policies, student services, and Benedictine values.

     The Freshmen Orientation welcomed students entering the College for the first time, while the Old Student Reorientation Program refreshed returning Bedans on institutional guidelines and updates for the new academic year.

     Formally commencing both programs, Atty. Juan Ruffo D. Chong, Director of Tertiary and Graduate Education, emphasized the institution's Benedictine principle of Ora et Labora and encouraged students to embody discipline, integrity, and respect toward every member of the Bedan community. 

     The Director urged students to uphold discipline, integrity, and concern for others, saying these values shape the identity of every Bedan. “These are not just ideals that we say, but rather principles that we live out and shape our identity,” he pointed out.

     Furthermore, in addressing returning students, he also encouraged them to embrace the academic year as a fresh beginning and maximize opportunities through academic excellence, student leadership, and campus involvement.

     Rector-President Rev. Fr. Ma. Gerardo De Villa, OSB outlined the institution's seven-point growth trajectory. He shared the institution’s 7-point growth trajectory: (1) evangelization and authentic witness to our Catholic and Benedictine orientation, (2) curriculum development and operational innovation, (3) highly engaged and responsive organization, (4) guided by quality management systems, (5) training students to high-end research, (6) community engagement, and lastly (7) promotion of culture, arts, and athletics.

     He also cited the institution's recent milestones, including the government recognition of its Engineering programs. “A milestone that affirms the quality of our academic offers,” he provided. 

     During the reorientation, the Rector-President noted that the institution marks its 54th year of operation and 31st year of offering higher education, adding that the institution is set to open the School of Medicine and Health Sciences this academic year, with the initiative aimed at inspiring students to pursue careers in medicine after completing their undergraduate degrees.

     “We stand by our mission to name this school a highly empowered results and opportunities school. So that you may become game changers in building a better tomorrow,” He reiterated that Bedan students should embody Benedictine values anchored on obedience and truth.

     The program continued with the introduction of the school administrators, faculty, and other key members of the Bedan community lead by Mr. Carl Michael Dela Cruz, Dean of Student Affairs, 

     The orientation proper began with Atty. John R. Jacome, Manager of the Environment, Health, and Safety Office (EHSO), who discussed and reminded students of the institution’s waste management and the proper safety procedure before, during, and after an earthquake, particularly teaching students how to do “Drop, Cover, and Hold” within 3 seconds.

     Furthermore, he announced that the institution shall conduct an earthquake drill on July 27.

     Dr. Rosario Mielmia C Aquino, Dean of the School of Arts, Sciences, & Education, then refreshed the returning students on the institution’s academic policies, including the qualifications for Latin honors, the importance of academic honesty, and the implementation of the zero-based grading system—highlighting that as a student’s year progresses, the difficulty of the course also progresses.

     Representatives from the Learning Resource Center (LRC), Counseling and Career Development Services (CCDS), Health Services Department (HSD), Security and Motor Pool (SMP), Information and Communication Technology Services (ICTS), Education Technology Services (ETS), General Services Department (GSD), Catholic Benedictine Formation (CBF), and the Center for Campus Ministry (CCM) introduced the services and support available to students throughout their stay at the institution.

     Towards the end of both programs, Engr. Dexter Joel I. Umil, Prefect of Discipline, discussed student discipline and awareness. He emphasized the importance of self-discipline for the students, and stated that they would be “strictly implementing” the dress code for the school year. 

     Furthermore, he reminded students of the prescribed uniform policy and the institution's disciplinary regulations—such as the major and minor offenses, the acts covered in both classifications, and the corresponding disciplinary actions for the said infractions—emphasizing that they would be required to wear the prescribed school uniform beginning July 20, giving them leeway for the first week of classes.

     Meanwhile, Dr. Precy G. Baluarte, Prefect of Student Activities, made a brief presentation of the functions and responsibilities of her office. She also introduced student organizations based on their distinctions, whether extra-curricular, co-curricular, or independent organizations. 

     She said that college is their final “training ground”, and sought the attention of the students to join their interests and extra-curricular organizations.

     She also invited students to visit the club recruitment booths at the Covered Court and Gazebo from July 15 to 17 and reminded student leaders to submit project proposals at least two weeks before their scheduled activities.

     In an interview with THE BEDAN HERALD, Etienne Philippe T. Roque (I-BSE) shared that he looks forward to the new academic year as an opportunity to prepare for the workforce and pursue further studies abroad.

     “I hope the school will help me because I plan to study in a different country so I hope that I will have the skills prepared for that,” he said.

     When asked why he chose SBCA, Roque added that the institution’s renowned business programs influenced his decision.

     On the other hand, Chelsea Ann M. Jungco (I-BACMS) shared that although she initially planned to pursue a different degree program, she ultimately chose Communications and Media Studies after carefully considering her long-term career aspirations. She also expressed excitement despite anticipating significant adjustments as she begins college in a new environment.

     As the Academic Year 2026-2027 begins, the orientation and reorientation programs prepared and equipped both freshmen and returning students with knowledge about the institution’s academic policies, services, and student responsibilities. The two-day program reaffirmed SBCA’s commitment to fostering academic excellence, as well as active participation from the Bedan community.