As a new batch of freshmen enters the College of Agriculture and Food Science (CAFS), an orientation was held last August 6 at the Charles Fuller Baker Memorial Hall to welcome the new Aggies.

Dr. Elpidio M. Agbisit, Jr., CAFS Dean, gave a warm welcome to the new batch of Aggies. He shared that the term “Aggies” refer to protectors of land grants, just as CAFS manages a number of land grants from different regions in the country. He also shared some tips for the freshmen of the College, such as:

Adapt,
Gain friends and gather knowledge,
Go for greatness,
Immerse,
Enjoy, and
Seize the moment.

Dr. Agbisit ended his welcome remarks by citing past UP President Alfredo E. Pascual when he said that “we in UP must succeed, not because we have a reputation to keep, but because we have a country serve”. He also laid out a challenge for the new freshmen to finish their degrees within the prescribed period.

Emphasizing UP’s motto of honor and excellence, Dr. Portia G. Lapitan, vice chancellor for academic affairs, delivered Chancellor Fernando C. Sanchez, Jr.’s message. She said that the new Aggies should always be guided by honor and excellence on their journey to serve the nation. She also shared how graduates of CAFS are in the forefront of solving problems of the society, especially with regards to issues of food security and safety.

Presentations from the degree-granting unit directors and the agricultural biotechnology (ABT) chair were also part of the program. Dr. Pearl B. Sanchez presented for the Agricultural Systems Institute, Dr. Rommel C. Sulabo for the Institute of Animal Science, Dr. Edna A. Aguilar for the Institute of Crop Science, Dr. Lotis E. Mopera for the Institute of Food Science and Technology, Dr. Sheryl A. Yap for the Institute of Weed Science, Entomology, and Plant Pathology, and Dr. Consuello Amor S. Estrella for the BS ABT program.

Aside from the presentations, the CAFS degree-granting and research institutes prepared exhibits showcasing their offerings, projects, and products. They even distributed materials and other souvenirs to the freshmen.

Ms. Josea Carmel Lazarte, CAFS student council chairperson, also delivered a message to the new members of the CAFS family. She shared how the council members are ready to be their ates and kuyas. Meanwhile, a representative of the freshmen in the person of Lester John T. Sabadao, gave the response. Even at his early stage in the University and the College, Sabadao was able to realize the roles they, as the new students of CAFS, are to play for the society.

The Mr. and Ms. CAFS Freshman, a surprise event, was also held. From the pool of contestants, Alandy-Dy Santiago and Lourdes Panganiban were named Mr. and Ms. CAFS Freshman 2019, respectively.

Also present in the event were Ms. Janet A. Dolor, counsellor in-charge of CAFS and head of guidance and counselling from the Office of Student Affairs; Dr. Adeliza B. Dorado, associate dean for instruction; Dr. Amado A. Angeles, director of Dairy Training and Research Institute; Dr. Pompe C. Sta. Cruz, director of Institute of Plant Breeding; and Engr. Emmanuel Q. Amatorio, station manager of Central Experiment Station. (AKS Mojar)