The 2026 First-Year Orientation Program officially commenced on June 17, 2026, at the Ormoc City Superdome. Marking the first day of the three-day event, the venue was filled with excitement as faculty members, staff, and students gathered to welcome the newest members of the CCO community.
The event started with the Mass of the Holy Spirit, presided over by Rev. Msgr. Erlito Maraya. In his homily, he encouraged the students to aim high, soar high, and go deep in their pursuit of knowledge and personal growth. He challenged them to raise their standards of excellence and to allow the administrators and faculty members to help bring out the best in them throughout their academic journey.
Atty. Nolito M. Quilang, OIC-President/College Administrator, officially welcomed the first-year students. In his message, he emphasized CCO’s commitment to providing opportunities for growth and success. He encouraged the students to dream big, take their studies seriously, actively participate in campus life, and strive for excellence as they begin their college journey.
Hon. Edmund Kierulf, Chairperson of the SP Committee on Education and Manpower Development, and Vice-Chairperson Hon. Krizea Caessandra Mercadal also attended the event and delivered inspirational messages, encouraging the first-year students to strive for excellence and remain committed to their goals.
An interactive icebreaker activity, “Connect and Energize,” was facilitated by the Program Heads, providing students with an opportunity to showcase their program yell and cheer while fostering the CCO spirit. This was followed by a lively game show led by Mr. Niño Piolo Roto, Coordinator for Student Leadership and Governance, and Ms. Pamela Pagalan, College Librarian.
Following this, students were likewise introduced to the institution’s Administrative Cluster and the Academic and Student Affairs and Services Cluster, providing them with a better understanding of the offices and personnel dedicated to supporting their overall college experience.
Ms. Xyza Ocampo, Director for Student Leaders, Publication, and Other Activities, also presented one of the essential student resources through the “Manual Quick-Start,” an interactive presentation of the Student Handbook and Library Handbook Essentials. This was followed by presentations from the Guidance Office, Sports Development Program, Health and Services Program, and Culture and Arts Program, highlighting the various services designed to support students’ holistic development and success at CCO.
Mr. Roto also recognized the student leaders and volunteers who generously dedicated their time and effort to ensure the success of the event. The program also featured a video presentation showcasing CCO Life, giving the students a glimpse of the vibrant academic, extracurricular, and campus experiences that await them.
The event concluded with the Pledge of a CCOnian, led by Supreme Student Government President Kenneth V. Toñada, formally welcoming the freshmen into the CCO community and encouraging them to uphold the institution’s ASPIRE core values.
