The Institute of Environmental Science and Meteorology (IESM) welcomed its new batch of graduate students during the 2025 Incoming Students Orientation Program, held on 1 August 2025 at the IESM Auditorium, UP Diliman.

The orientation aimed to introduce incoming students to the University and the Institute, provide an overview of IESM’s academic programs (Diploma, MS, PhD), and familiarize students with the various research laboratories, faculty members, support services and staff.

The event was hosted by Dr. Joseph Palermo, who also delivered a brief introduction to the Institute’s faculty and staff. IESM Director Dr. Cherry Ringor opened the program with welcome remarks, followed by an expectations-setting session led by Dr. Enrico Replan.

Academic matters were discussed in detail by Dr. Rafaela Jane Delfino, Deputy Director for Academic Affairs, while Dr. Mayzonee Ligaray, Deputy Director for Research and Extension, introduced the Institute’s research laboratories.

In the afternoon, sessions on writing and research preparation were led by Dr. Lemnuel Aragones (Concept Note Development) and Dr. Gerry Bagtasa (Scientific Writing). Participants also received an orientation on library services from Ms. Gladys Llenos, and an introduction to the IESM graduate student organization, ESMS, by Vice President Joan Souribio.

The program concluded with a short writing exercise facilitated by Dr. BA Racoma and closing remarks from Dr. Rene Rollon.