ISR welcomes international students at Tulay welcome program

The Office of International Student Relations (ISR) hosted “Tulay: Building Bridges Across Cultures,” a welcome and orientation event for new and returning international students at UPLB on February 7, 2025. 

Tulay aims to help students navigate their semester at UPLB and foster cultural exchange and understanding.

The program included a series of talks and interactive games designed to introduce students to Filipino culture and provide essential information about university processes that will support their stay.

The event opened with ISR head Gonzalo H. Amante, Jr., warmly welcoming the international students for the second semester of AY 2023-2024. 

This was followed by an inspirational message from UPLB Chancellor Jose V. Camacho, who highlighted the need for building meaningful connections among cultures, nurturing a sense of belonging, and providing students with the tools and support they need to thrive. 

He also recognized the contribution of international students, who bring their unique perspectives and experiences, enriching, broadening, and strengthening the university as a global institution.

Kathleen Marie V. Paguio, senior office assistant of ISR, kicked off the orientation proper by presenting the various services and programs available to international students, including study permit processing and activities tailored to international students. 

These activities provide opportunities for students to socialize, celebrate cultural understanding, and deepen their appreciation of different cultures.

Benzon D. Subijano, an administrative officer at ISR and one of UPLB’s accredited liaisons to the Bureau of Immigration, gave an informative talk on visa processing. He outlined the necessary steps for visa renewal and discussed common issues and factors that may lead to denied visa applications and cancellations.

The second part of the orientation was designed to give the students a glimpse into Filipino culture. A cultural dance presentation by the UPLB Sandayaw Cultural Group offered a glimpse into the Cordilleras’ local heritage, showcasing Filipino communities’ vibrant traditions. 

Vanessa Ebron-San Juan, project development associate at ISR, shared insights into Filipino culture, drawing parallels between sinigang, a beloved Filipino dish, and the rich diversity of Filipino cultural traditions. The analogy highlighted the unique yet unified spirit of Filipino identity.

During the program, new officers and country representatives of the International Students’ Association (ISA) were also inducted into office. 

Eighteen international students were chosen to represent their respective countries in the ISA, and five were elected to the following positions: president, vice-president, general secretary, treasurer, and fundraising secretary.

Jeremie Simisi from the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) was re-elected as ISA president. In his address, he explained the benefits of ISA membership and involvement, particularly as the organization prepares for its registration under the Office of Student Activities.Tulay is a semestral program organized by ISR to orient new and returning international students, ensuring they feel welcomed and supported in their UPLB journey.