UP recognizes 50 Oblation scholars

MANILA, Philippines — The University of the Philippines has recognized the top 50 passers of the 2025 UP College Admission Test (UPCAT) who automatically qualified as Oblation scholars.

The UP Oblation Scholarship is a government-funded grant. The scholars are identified according to UPCAT scores and University Predicted Grades.

Among the benefits of being an Oblation scholar are free tuition, on top of miscellaneous and laboratory fees. They are also entitled to a book allowance of P2,250 per semester and a special incentive allowance of P3,000 a month.

Top Oblation scholar Justine Reimon Villanueva, who is an incoming BS Public Health student at UP Manila, led the Pledge of Commitment on behalf of his fellow scholars.

“We have a driving force to continue excelling. What is being tackled in this recognition is not only the honor, but also our responsibility as scholars. In UP, the education is not only free, it is also rooted on the plight of the people. We are aware and ready to respond to the condition of the people,” Villanueva said.

UP president Angelo Jimenez hosted the reception for the 2025 Oblation scholars.

Jimenez quoted a stanza of Jose Rizal’s “Mi Ultimo Adios” to remind students about the significance behind the scholarship program and the meaning of the UP Oblation.

He explained that the Oblation, created by National Artist for Sculpture Guillermo Tolentino, transcends mere symbolism for UP.