The University of Asia and the Pacific Junior College (JC) Program marked its 10th anniversary with a homecoming celebration held on January 31, 2026, at Dining Halls 1 and 2.
The event, anchored on the theme “Ten Years, One Spirit: Unitas,” brought together administrators, faculty members, alumni, and members of the Junior College community to commemorate a decade of the program’s academic and formative mission.
Among those in attendance were Dr. Fe Gladys Golo, Vice President for Academic and Faculty Affairs; Fr. Carlos Estrada, University Chaplain; Dr. Maria Asuncion Magsino, former dean of the College of Arts and Sciences; and Dr. Antonio N. Torralba, Associate Professor, whose contributions helped establish the program. Former JC program directors Ms. Rissa Cortes and Ms. Margeaux Marie Valdez also shared messages of support, along with Mrs. Aurea Cruz, the program’s third director and currently Vice President for Finance and Administrative Affairs.
Select alumni shared reflections on their experiences in the JC Program and its role in their personal and professional formation. These included Ms. Jon Risel Varias (Batch 2016), Mr. Christian Dominic Angelo Sobremonte (Batch 2016), Mr. D3 Decena (Batch 2019), and Ms. Maya Decena (Batch 2023).
Looking ahead, Mrs. Elerosa Caparas, the present Junior College program director, presented her vision for the continued growth of the program, encouraging the community to remain united in its mission.
The celebration highlighted the program’s commitment to formation rooted in truth, service, and faith, as it continues to honor its past and move forward with purpose and hope.

The attendees to the Junior College Program 10th anniversary celebration, which include (seated, L-R) faculty member Mr. Victor Primo, Associate Professor Dr. Antonio Torralba, University Chaplain Fr. Cayo Estrada, VP for Finance and Administrative Affairs Mrs. Aurea Cruz, JC Program Director Ms. Elerosa Caparas, VP for Academic and Faculty Affairs Dr. Gladys Golo, former JC program officer Ms. Miles Herrero-Biay, faculty member Mr. Garry Perez, and (standing, third row, rightmost) JC Deputy Program Director Ms. Chinky Alarilla-Uy.