By: Alyszah Angela Beltran
Photo by: Gwynette Merano | The LANCE
Colegio de San Juan de Letran-Manila opened its doors on March 14, 2026 for its annual Open House, welcoming students, parents, and guests to a day of exploration and inspiration.
Its opening seminar titled, “NextGen Leaders: A Youth Transformation Experience,” featured speakers JC Librian, Ana Mendoza, Janette Toral, and AJ Bandiola from YouthMax, a leadership program by Maxwell Leadership, inspired by the teachings of John Maxwell. Organized by the Letran Student Council in collaboration with the outside organization, it aimed to equip students with leadership skills and prepare them for successful careers.
Following this, visitors explored the school’s academic programs, joined the campus tour, and interacted with booths hosted by various Recognized Student Organizations (RSOs), Cultural and Performing Arts Groups (CPAGs), and the student council from both the senior high school and collegiate levels. The booths offered attendees a firsthand look at student leadership, creativity, and life at Letran.
A Glimpse into the Letran Life
Excitement was in the campus air as attendees expressed their interest in enrolling at Letran after experiencing the seminar and campus activities.
Princess Solis, a Grade 12 STEMF student from the Colegio, was encouraged to enroll by attending the Open House. “Somehow nakapagbigay sila ng mga talks na hinahanap ng isang student, especially yung iba are from a small school and they look forward to the event itself because mas nakikilala nila yung school,” she said.
“In that way, mas ma-eencourage sila because kung ano ang hinahanap nila sa isang school is makikita nila sa Letran,” she added. By experiencing the event, students like her felt reassured that Letran could offer the opportunities they are looking for, making them more confident and motivated to enroll.
Deo Fernandez, a Grade 12 student from Lucrecia R. Kasilag Senior High School, expressed similar sentiments. “It really did encourage me to enroll here in Letran, especially on how it opened my mind on the different activities, events, clubs, and facilities. Somehow, all of those persuaded me to enroll here.”
Kenshin Follero, a Grade 10 student from Eulogio Rodriguez Jr. High School, agreed. “Yes po, I was encouraged to enroll since we felt that we were welcomed here,” he said. We were very happy to explore Letran,” he added.
Together, their responses highlight how an Open House can do more than just showcase academics—it gives prospective students a sense of campus life. By exposing attendees to the variety of organizations, events, and facilities, it reflects a broader strategy: when students can envision themselves actively participating in the school community, their confidence to enroll naturally increases.
First Impressions Leave a Lasting Mark
For many attendees, the Open House offered them a first glimpse of life at Letran. From the vibrant campus atmosphere to the welcoming student organizations and engaging activities, these prospective students formed positive impressions of the school.
For Solis, the Colegio had notable qualities. “My first impression of Letran is that it’s a big school. Kasi when I was in junior high school, my school was small and when I studied here in Letran, I found it very difficult to adjust since it’s a big school,” he said.
Similarly, Fernandez was struck by the school’s scale and facilities “Before coming here, I had a brief knowledge about Letran. The moment I stepped in here, na-visualize ko na kaagad na ‘ganito pala siya, malaki talaga’. Maganda yung facilities and super welcoming ng mga tao,” he shared.
Follero echoed his thoughts. “The first reaction I had was I was really happy. My mother really wanted me to come here so I explored a lot and got tired since the school was really big,” he said.
Together, their first impressions highlight how the welcoming community, and dynamic environment of Letran create an immediate sense of excitement for newcomers. While the size of the campus may seem overwhelming for some at first, the activities and events helped them feel more connected and welcomed to be a part of the school’s community.
Immersed in the Arriba Spirit
Beyond the seminar and the campus tour, one of the highlights of Letran’s Open House was the array of booths set up by RSOs, CPAGs, and Student Councils. From interactive displays to creative presentations, these booths gave students a closer look at student life. Many attendees found themselves drawn, leaving them inspired and eager to participate.
Solis and Follero both enjoyed the booth set up by the Letran SHS Student Council titled, “Knight’s Jackpot.” Both were amazed as the senior high school students displayed their creativity and organization, turning the booth into an engaging and interactive experience.
For Fernandez, the Letran Filipiniana Dance Company’s booth stood out the most. “I’m a fanatic of both dance and culture which is why the booth caught my attention,”he said.
His fascination with the booth shows how the school both promotes cultural appreciation as well as provides avenues for students to explore their passions. By showcasing talent and tradition, the booth reinforced Letran’s vibrant and multifaceted student life.
Truly, the Open House offered an engaging, hands-on glimpse into the Letran community and the arriba spirit. From the fun and welcoming booths to the interactive tours and inspiring seminar, attendees experienced the energy, spirit, creativity, and camaraderie that define student life at Letran.
Whether it is exploring leadership opportunities, cultural activities, and most especially academic offerings, prospective students were able to see how Letran nurtures both personal growth and a sense of belonging.
The event not only informed but also inspired, leaving students motivated and excited to become part of a community that values excellence, tradition, and the arriba spirit.