ROXAS, Isabela | July 28, 2026 — Isabela State University (ISU) Roxas Campus officially welcomed new and returning students as it opened Academic Year 2026–2027 through the Student Welcome Program and Orientation 2026, held at the ISU Gymnasium, Rang-ayan, Roxas, Isabela. Guided by the theme, “Pannakikaddua 2026: Connecting, Learning, and Thriving,” the event marked the beginning of another academic year by fostering faith, learning, and a strong sense of community among ISUans.
The celebration began with a Holy Mass, bringing together students, faculty members, non-teaching personnel, and university officials in prayer and thanksgiving. The Eucharistic celebration provided an opportunity for the University community to seek God’s guidance, wisdom, and blessings as they embarked on another academic year dedicated to learning, service, and personal growth.
Following the Mass, the Kapagayan Dance Troupe opened the formal program with a vibrant cultural performance, followed by the singing of the Philippine National Anthem, Isabela Hymn, and ISU Hymn, creating an atmosphere of pride, unity, and enthusiasm as students officially began the new academic year.
Welcoming the students, Dr. Jane C. Caliboso, Director of the Office of Student Affairs and Services (OSAS), encouraged everyone to actively participate in campus life, embrace new opportunities, and make the most of their university experience. She reminded students that learning extends beyond the classroom through involvement in student organizations, leadership opportunities, and community engagement.
In his inspirational message, Atty. Romano P. Cammayo, DPA, Campus Administrator, emphasized that university education is not only about earning a degree but also about developing integrity, resilience, leadership, and a genuine desire to serve others. He challenged students to pursue excellence while embodying the University’s values in both their academic and personal lives.
To help students become familiar with the people who will accompany them throughout their academic journey, Mr. Rodel P. Sarmiento, AFS Director and Executive Assistant, introduced the University and Campus officials. This was followed by the presentation of the non-academic personnel by Ms. Ivy Camille M. Gan, NASA President, while the Program Chairpersons introduced the faculty members from their respective colleges. The segment fostered a welcoming environment by allowing students to meet the faculty and staff who will guide and support them throughout their stay at the University.
Assoc. Prof. Charibel R. Sarte, Academic Affairs Director. Students were introduced to ISU’s commitment to developing lifelong and future-ready professionals through quality instruction, research, extension, and resource generation while promoting excellence, innovation, and sustainable development.
Participants also learned about the University’s aspiration of becoming a Smart-Green University, emphasizing sustainability, digital transformation, environmental stewardship, and responsible resource management. These initiatives encourage every member of the University community to become active partners in creating a smarter, greener, and more sustainable future.
Mr. Dexter M. Pascual, Campus Registrar, presented the University’s academic policies and Registrar’s Office services, providing students with essential information on enrollment procedures, academic regulations, student records, and other institutional processes.
The Program Chairpersons likewise presented their respective department policies, curriculum expectations, academic requirements, and student opportunities. These presentations gave students a clearer understanding of their chosen degree programs and the academic standards expected of them throughout their university life. ISU Roxas Campus currently offers the Bachelor of Science in Agriculture, Bachelor of Science in Agribusiness, Bachelor of Science in Criminology, Bachelor of Science in Law Enforcement Administration, Bachelor of Science in Fisheries and Aquatic Sciences, Bachelor of Science in Information Technology, and Bachelor of Science in Education.
Representatives from the University’s student service offices also introduced the wide range of support services available on campus, including the Office of Student Affairs and Services (OSAS), Guidance and Counseling Services, Library Services, Health and Dental Services, Scholarship and Financial Assistance Services, Student Publication, Student Housing Services, Student Organization Unit, Socio-Cultural Services, and Sports Services. Through these presentations, students learned about the programs and resources designed to support their academic success, personal well-being, leadership development, and active participation in university life.
The program concluded with the closing remarks of Assoc. Prof. Charibel R. Sarte, Academic Affairs Director, who encouraged students to remain committed to excellence, uphold the University’s core values, and seize every opportunity for learning, leadership, and service. She reminded everyone that success in university is built not only through academic achievement but also through character, perseverance, and meaningful engagement with the community.
More than an orientation, the Student Welcome Program and Orientation 2026 served as a celebration of new beginnings. Guided by the theme “Pannakikaddua 2026: Connecting, Learning, and Thriving,” the activity inspired students to build lasting friendships, embrace lifelong learning, and thrive in an inclusive, innovative, and supportive academic environment.
The event also reflects Isabela State University Roxas Campus’ commitment to advancing the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 4 (Quality Education) by promoting inclusive and equitable learning opportunities, and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals) by strengthening collaboration among students, faculty, staff, the local government, and other stakeholders. Furthermore, it reinforces the University’s vision as a Smart-Green University while supporting the principles of the World University Rankings for Innovation (WURI) through student-centered learning, innovation, sustainability, community engagement, and transformative education.
As ISU Roxas Campus officially begins Academic Year 2026–2027, it remains steadfast in its mission of empowering learners, nurturing future leaders, and producing globally competitive graduates equipped with knowledge, skills, values, and a strong commitment to nation-building and sustainable development.
