The trees dance in the biting wind outside the UP Los Baños Main Library as four students walk back to the Graduate School Dormitory. All of them were exhausted and ready to call it a night. But their morning didn’t bring them relief.

No signals on their phones. Windows were sealed shut. And the door knob won’t budge. A sudden realization fell on them: they were locked inside their own room.

Equipped with only a few items scattered across their desks, the clock is ticking restlessly, closely watching the students try to decode the clues before time runs out.

Stepping beyond the classroom walls

Navigating university life requires more than individual effort, much like how the four roommates must lean on each other to find their way out. Camaraderie goes beyond the classroom walls; one must rely on the other to overcome obstacles especially under pressure. Through this, we lean into each other’s strengths, communicate across differences, and build trust.

This spirit of shared resolve is at the heart of Tipanan, an annual program spearheaded by the International Student Relations (ISR). It is designed to encourage student life far beyond academic boundaries. Recognizing that holistic growth relies on balance with leisure, Tipanan aims to create an intentional space centered around recreation and well-being. It serves as a reminder the community is truly what carries us through university life.

Far into the mystery 

This year, Tipanan takes this opportunity through an immersive, dorm mystery escape room. If you’re an adventure seeker with an eye for clues this one’s for you. Ready your magnifying glasses, uncover hidden hits, and put your instincts to the test. 

The mystery awaits. Are you ready to crack the clues? 

Tipanan 2026 will happen on Friday, 25 September 2026, 4:00 PM - 6:00 PM, at the Graduate School Dormitory.

Interested participants may register through this link: https://tinyurl.com/TipananEscape

This activity is for UPLB International Students only.

Writers: Julia Escueta, Danielle Chua, and Fecility Wenceslao