Parent’s Journey: Applying to UP High School Cebu (SHSAT 2026 Guide & Experience)

Applying to a prestigious school is both exciting and nerve-wracking—especially when it’s your child’s future on the line. As a parent, I recently went through the Senior High School Admission Test (SHSAT) application process at University of the Philippines Cebu, specifically for UP High School Cebu in Lahug, Cebu City.

In this blog post, I’ll share our real experience applying on the last day (April 8, 2026), along with a complete, guide to the SHSAT requirements, qualifications, and process.

Why Choose UP High School Cebu?

University of the Philippines is known for its commitment to academic excellence and social responsibility. One of its key principles is democratized access, which aims to give economically disadvantaged but deserving students the opportunity to access quality education.

UP High School Cebu also recognizes:

* Children of UP Cebu alumni

* Dependents of UP personnel

* Students with strong athletic potential

This makes the school not just academically competitive, but also inclusive and holistic in developing students.

SHSAT 2026 Important Dates

Here are the key dates every parent and student should remember:

- January 5, 2026 – Start of application

- April 8, 2026 – Last day of application (this is when we applied!)

- April 10, 2026 – Release of test permits

- April 12, 2026 – SHSAT Exam Day

- April 20, 2026 – Release of results

- May 4–6, 2026 – Pre-enrollment of qualifiers

Timing is critical—especially if you plan to submit on the last day like we did.

Eligibility Requirements for SHSAT

To qualify under the Democratized Access Program, applicants must:

- Be a Grade 10 completer

- Have not previously studied in another high school

- Have no grade below 80

- Maintain a conduct grade of at least B

- Come from a family with annual income of ₱300,000 or below

- Pass the SHSAT

Other categories include:

- Children of UP personnel

- Children of UP Cebu alumni

- Varsity athletes (with additional screening)

Required Documents for Application

We made sure to prepare all documents ahead of time. Here’s what you’ll need:

Basic Requirements:

- Two (2) recent 2x2 photos

- Certified true copies of:

* Grade 9 report card

* Latest Grade 10 report card

- Income documents (BIR Form 2316, affidavit, or business tax)

- Utility bills (electricity and internet)

- Vicinity map of residence

- Photos of the house (inside and outside, with the applicant)

⚠️ Important: Documents must have original signatures from the school principal or adviser.

Our Actual Experience (April 8, 2026)

We decided to submit our son’s application on the last day of filing, which made the experience even more intense—but memorable.

Morning: Securing School Documents

We started our day at Marigondon National High School to request certified true copies of his Grade 9 and Grade 10 report cards.

- We photocopied the originals beforehand

- The process took around 30 minutes

- Everything went smoothly at the school office

Preparing the Requirements

Before heading to UP Cebu, we ensured we had everything:

✔️ 2x2 colored photos

✔️ Photos of our son inside and outside our house

✔️ Income tax documents (both parents)

✔️ Printed internet bills (last 2 months)

✔️ All required forms and copies

Preparation really made a difference—we avoided last-minute stress.

Arrival at UP Cebu: Beating the Deadline

We arrived at University of the Philippines Cebu at 3:30 PM, just in time before the 4:00 PM cut-off. Honestly, it felt like a race against time—but we made it.

After submitting the documents:

- Our son’s application was accepted

- He was actually the last student to be interviewed that day

The Interview Process

The application doesn’t end with document submission. There’s also an interview stage, which is a crucial part of the screening.

Student Interview

- Took around 1 hour

- Conducted by a faculty member

- Focused on:

* Academic readiness

* Character and behavior

* Communication skills

Parent Interview

After our son, it was our turn as parents.

- Duration: about 30 minutes

- Topics included:

* Family background

* Support for the student

* Verification of submitted information

This step ensures the authenticity of the application and alignment with UP’s values.

What Happens After the Interview?

After completing the interview process:

- We were told to wait for the results

- The outcome would be released on April 10, 2026

- This is also the same day for:

* Test permit distribution

The test permit is essential—it means your child is officially qualified to take the SHSAT on April 12, 2026.

SHSAT Coverage

The Senior High School Admission Test (SHSAT) includes:

* Mental Ability

* English

* Filipino

* Mathematics

* Social Studies

* Science

📌 Note: All subjects are in English except Filipino.

Application Fees

₱300 application and testing fee

Paid at the UP Cebu Cashier

Non-refundable

Tips for Parents and Students

Based on our experience, here are some helpful tips:

1. Prepare Early

Don’t wait until the last day like we did (unless necessary). Gathering documents takes time.

2. Double-Check Requirements

Incomplete documents can lead to rejection.

3. Be Present as Parents

Applicants must be accompanied by parents—no exceptions.

4. Practice for the Interview

Help your child build confidence in answering questions.

5. Arrive Early

Cut-off times are strictly followed.

A Moment of Gratitude

After everything—the rush, the preparation, the interviews—we felt nothing but gratitude. We thank God that:

* Our son’s application was accepted

* He successfully completed the interview stage

Now, we are prayerfully waiting for the test permit release this April 10, 2026, hoping for positive results as he moves one step closer to becoming part of UP High School Cebu.

Final Thoughts

Applying to UP High School Cebu is not just about meeting academic requirements—it’s about determination, preparation, and faith.

For parents planning to apply, I hope this guide and our personal experience help you navigate the process with confidence.

This journey reminded me that sometimes, even when you’re racing against time, everything falls into place with preparation, perseverance, and trust in God.

I would like to express my sincere appreciation to EXCEL REVIEW CENTER for their invaluable support and guidance throughout my review journey, which led to my success in passing the board examination and earning the title of Engineer. As the instructors often emphasized, the review process is the most challenging stage, and I am truly grateful to have had their unwavering support every step of the way.

The knowledge, mentorship, and encouragement from the instructors and staff have significantly contributed to my professional growth and strengthened my determination to succeed.

Above all, I am deeply grateful to our Almighty Father for this blessing and for giving me the strength, wisdom, and perseverance to overcome every challenge along the way.

I would also like to extend my heartfelt thanks to my parents Papa Sonny (in Heaven) & Mama Merlyn Gasang, siblings (Cristian, Merson, Christine Mae, & Christone Hades), husband Engr. Terence, children (Tara Mikayla, Mike Terence, Meachel Terrin & Tinker Myles), relatives in Manticao, Misamis Oriental (my birthplace) & elsewhere, mother/brother/sister-in-laws, classmates (elementary: Manticao Central School, high school: MSU-NFHS, college: MSU-IIT), all my teachers/advisers and professors, colleagues (Celestica, Flextronics, & Lexmark), mom friends & friends for their constant love, encouragement, and belief in me.

ENGR. MEACHEL GASANG-BONITA

Mindanao State University - Iligan Institute of Technology (MSU-IIT)

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Coffee & Matcha Break at M Boutique by The Manila Hotel – NAIA Terminal 3 (Pasay City)

Travel days can be exhausting, especially when you have a few hours to spare before boarding your flight. Instead of wandering around the terminal, finding a comfortable place where you can relax, recharge your devices, and enjoy a good snack makes the wait much more pleasant. During our recent trip, we discovered exactly that kind of spot at M Boutique by The Manila Hotel, located inside Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal 3.

While waiting for our flight back to Cebu, we decided to take a short coffee and matcha break at this cozy boutique café on the 4th Floor (South Wing) of the airport. What started as a quick snack stop turned into a surprisingly memorable and relaxing moment before our journey home.

A Hidden Coffee Spot Inside NAIA Terminal 3

Located away from the busiest sections of the terminal, M Boutique by The Manila Hotel offers a quiet and comfortable corner for travelers who want to slow down for a bit. The café carries the elegance and heritage of The Manila Hotel, one of the most iconic hotels in the Philippines.

The café’s design feels modern yet warm. The interior features a boutique-style setup with clean lines, warm lighting, and stylish shelves showcasing premium products and delicacies. It doesn’t feel like the usual rushed airport café where people grab their drinks and leave immediately. Instead, it feels like a small lounge where travelers can sit down, breathe, and enjoy the moment.

When we arrived around 4:00 PM, the café had a calm afternoon atmosphere. A few travelers were quietly sipping coffee, some typing on their laptops, while others were simply relaxing while waiting for their flights. It felt like the perfect mid-afternoon pause during a busy travel

Our Order: Special Bibingka Combo with Hot Matcha Latte

Since it was already mid-afternoon snack time, we decided to try something that felt both comforting and uniquely Filipino. We ordered the Special Bibingka Combo Snacks, paired with a hot matcha latte.

Bibingka is a beloved Filipino rice cake traditionally cooked in clay pots lined with banana leaves. It is slightly sweet, soft, and fluffy with a subtle smoky aroma. At M Boutique, the bibingka was served warm and fresh, making it an ideal snack to pair with a hot drink.

The bibingka had that classic comforting flavor — soft rice cake with a light sweetness and a delicious buttery aroma. It’s the kind of snack that instantly reminds you of home, especially for travelers heading back to the provinces.

To complement the bibingka, we ordered a hot matcha latte. The drink was smooth, creamy, and perfectly balanced. The earthy flavor of the matcha blended well with the milk, creating a comforting and relaxing drink. After a long day of travel activities, that warm cup of matcha felt incredibly soothing.

The combination of Filipino bibingka and Japanese matcha may sound unusual at first, but it actually worked beautifully together.

A Curious Little Visitor: The Maya Bird

One of the most unexpected moments during our visit happened while we were waiting for our order. As we sat quietly at our table, a tiny maya bird suddenly appeared and hopped under our table, seemingly searching for some crumbs or treats. It was such a surprising and amusing sight to see a small bird wandering around inside an airport café.

We couldn’t help but wonder how the bird managed to get inside the terminal in the first place. Airports are usually tightly secured spaces, so spotting a little bird casually exploring under the tables felt like a funny and charming moment.

The bird stayed for a short while, hopping around curiously before flying away again. It was a small moment, but it made our coffee break even more memorable. Sometimes travel memories are made not just by the places you visit, but also by the little unexpected encounters along the way.

Perfect for Travelers Waiting for Their Flight

One of the best things about M Boutique by The Manila Hotel is how traveler-friendly it is. Airport waiting areas can sometimes be uncomfortable, especially when you need to charge your devices or get some work done before boarding. Fortunately, this café makes things easier.

Several tables are equipped with power supply outlets, allowing guests to conveniently plug in their laptops, phones, or other gadgets while enjoying their drinks and snacks. For travelers like us who always have phones, tablets, and sometimes laptops running low on battery, this feature is incredibly helpful. Instead of sitting on the airport floor near a charging station, you can relax in a comfortable seat while your devices charge. It’s the kind of place where time slows down a little — something every traveler appreciates before heading back into the busy airport environment.

The café also provides a quiet and cozy atmosphere, making it suitable for:
- Remote work while traveling
- Relaxing before a flight
- Casual meetings
- Quick snack breaks during layovers

Easy to Find Inside NAIA Terminal 3

Accessibility is another reason why M Boutique is a great stop for travelers. Located on the 4th Floor (South Wing) of NAIA Terminal 3, the café is easy to reach whether you're arriving early for your flight or just exploring the terminal while waiting.

Instead of settling for crowded fast-food spots, travelers can enjoy a more relaxing café experience here. The boutique café vibe feels more personal and comfortable compared to the typical airport dining options.

A Relaxing Pause Before Flying Back to Cebu

Our coffee and matcha break at M Boutique by The Manila Hotel turned out to be a lovely way to end our time in Manila before flying back to Cebu. Between the warm bibingka snack, the smooth matcha latte, the comfortable seating, and the surprise visit from the little maya bird, the experience felt simple yet memorable.

Travel often involves rushing from one place to another, but moments like this remind us to slow down and enjoy the small experiences along the journey. If you ever find yourself with extra time inside NAIA Terminal 3, consider stopping by M Boutique for a quick coffee or snack break. Whether you're craving a comforting Filipino treat or simply looking for a quiet place to recharge your devices and relax, this café offers a cozy little escape inside the busy airport.

Sometimes, the best travel memories happen in the most unexpected places — even inside an airport café. 🍵❤🛪

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Our Family Staycation at Jaynet Oceanview Resort – A Simple, Relaxing Oceanfront Escape in South Cebu 🌊

If you’re searching for a quiet, family-friendly oceanfront resort in South Cebu, our 1-night staycation at Jaynet Oceanview Resort in Boljoon is definitely worth sharing. This stay turned out to be a refreshing break from city life—simple, affordable, and genuinely relaxing, especially for families who love the sea.

We booked a Family Room good for six with a full ocean view, a place to stay after attending the Family Day 2026 activity of our youngest daughter at Philippine Science High School - Central Visayas Campus and from the moment we arrived, we knew we had made the right choice.

📍 Location: Easy to Find and Very Accessible

One of the things we appreciated most about Jaynet Oceanview Resort is its strategic location. The resort is situated along the national highway in Boljoon, making it very easy to reach whether you’re coming from Cebu City or nearby southern towns.

There’s no need to pass through narrow barangay roads or rough terrain, which is a big plus when traveling with kids, elders, or a fully loaded vehicle. It’s the kind of place you can conveniently stop at without worrying about accessibility.

🚗 Parking Situation: Limited but Manageable

Since the resort is compact, parking space is limited, but still manageable:

1–2 vehicles can park inside the resort
Around 3–5 vehicles can park outside, just beside the building along the highway

For families traveling in one or two cars, this setup works fine. Just keep this in mind if you’re visiting in a larger group with multiple vehicles.

🛏️ Family Room with Full Ocean View (Good for 6)

We stayed in a family room designed for six guests, and the space was comfortable enough for everyone. What truly stood out was the full ocean view—a feature that instantly elevates the entire stay.

Waking up to the sight of the sea, hearing gentle waves, and watching the sunlight reflect on the water made our short stay feel longer and more relaxing. It’s the kind of view that helps you slow down, even if you’re only staying overnight.

This room setup is ideal for:
- Families who want to stay together
- Small groups or barkadas
- Budget-conscious travelers who still want a scenic view

Jaynet Oceanview Resort, Cebu, Philippines - Book Now at Agoda.com

🏊 Infinity Pool with a View of the Sea

Jaynet Oceanview Resort has a lovely infinity pool facing the ocean, and this quickly became a favorite spot for both kids and adults. The pool area is perfect for:

- Cooling off during the day
- Relaxing while enjoying the sea breeze
- Taking photos with the ocean as your backdrop

It’s not overly crowded, and the calm atmosphere makes it easy to unwind without feeling rushed or overstimulated.

🏖️ White Sand Beach During Low Tide

Another pleasant surprise during our stay was the white sand beach that becomes visible during low tide. While it may not be a wide beach like those in popular tourist islands, it’s still a beautiful natural feature that adds charm to the resort.

During low tide, guests can:
- Walk along the shoreline
- Let kids play and explore safely
- Enjoy quiet moments by the sea
- Take photos with the exposed sand and rocks

It’s a simple but memorable experience, especially for families who enjoy being close to nature.

🍱 No Corkage Fee – Bring Your Own Food!

One major highlight of Jaynet Oceanview Resort is its no corkage fee policy. Guests are free to bring food and drinks from outside, which is a huge advantage for families and budget travelers. Whether you prefer home-cooked meals, takeout from nearby towns, or your own snacks and drinks, you won’t be charged extra for bringing them in.

🍳 Guest Cooking Area and Pantry

What makes this resort even more family-friendly is the availability of a shared cooking area and pantry for guests. If you enjoy cooking or want to prepare meals for your family, this setup is incredibly convenient. Not all resorts offer this kind of flexibility, so it’s definitely a big plus.

This feature is perfect for:
- Families with kids
- Guests with dietary preferences
- Longer stays
- Travelers who want to save on food expenses

🍽️ Optional Breakfast and Dinner

If you don’t feel like cooking, no worries—the resort also allows guests to order breakfast and dinner. This gives you the best of both worlds:

- Cook your own meals if you want
- Order food when you’d rather relax

This flexibility makes the stay more comfortable and stress-free, especially for short vacations.

🌴 Overall Atmosphere and Experience

Jaynet Oceanview Resort is simple, quiet, and laid-back. It’s not a luxury resort, but it doesn’t try to be—and that’s part of its charm.

The focus is on:
- Comfort
- Relaxation
- Accessibility
- Family-friendly features

For a 1-night staycation, it gave us exactly what we needed: rest, sea views, quality family time, and a break from everyday routines.

Quick yoga at the pool.

⭐ Why We Recommend Jaynet Oceanview Resort in Boljoon, Cebu

✔ Family room good for six
✔ Full ocean view
✔ Infinity pool overlooking the sea
✔ White sand beach visible during low tide
✔ No corkage fee
✔ Guest cooking area and pantry
✔ Optional breakfast and dinner
✔ Located along the national highway
✔ Ideal for short family staycations

If you’re planning a quick South Cebu getaway, a budget-friendly family staycation, or simply want a peaceful oceanfront resort in Boljoon, Jaynet Oceanview Resort is a solid choice. It’s perfect for travelers who value simplicity, flexibility, and beautiful sea views over luxury frills.

Even with just one night, our stay felt restful and meaningful—and sometimes, that’s all you really need. 💙

12 Hours in Bahrain: A Memorable Layover Adventure from Istanbul to the Philippines

Long layovers don’t have to be boring. Sometimes, they turn into the most unexpected highlights of a journey. After attending the World Robot Olympiad Turkey 2024, our family journey back to the Philippines included a 12-hour layover in Bahrain—and instead of staying inside the airport, we decided to turn it into a mini adventure. What followed was a beautiful mix of culture, history, relaxation, and shopping, all squeezed into half a day that we’ll never forget.

Here’s how we spent 12 amazing hours in Bahrain, flying with Gulf Air from Istanbul, Turkey to Manila, Philippines, with memories worth sharing.

Flying from Istanbul to Bahrain with Gulf Air

Our journey began in the early hours of December 1, when we boarded our Gulf Air flight from Istanbul with a 5:00 AM takeoff. The flight was smooth and comfortable, and by around 9:00 AM, we had safely arrived at Bahrain International Airport.

Gulf Air made the transition seamless, which was especially appreciated after an intense and fulfilling international event like the World Robot Olympiad. Despite being tired, excitement kicked in—we were about to explore a new country, even if just for a few hours.

Smooth Immigration & Transit Visa Experience

One of the best decisions we made was to drop by Bahrain Immigration to process our transit visa. The process was straightforward and efficient, making it easy for travelers on long layovers to step outside the airport and explore.

Within a short time, we were officially in Bahrain—ready to maximize every minute of our 12-hour stay.

Check-in at Golden Tulip Bahrain & Relaxing Brunch

By around 10:00 AM, we arrived at the Golden Tulip Hotel Bahrain, ideally situated in Manama. The hotel turned out to be an excellent choice for transit travelers—comfortable, easily accessible, and genuinely welcoming from the moment we stepped in.

We began our Bahrain experience with a relaxing brunch at the hotel, savoring warm, satisfying meals and refreshing drinks. After several days of nonstop travel and intense competition in Turkey, this quiet break was exactly what our bodies and minds needed. We took time to rest, enjoyed a refreshing bath, and even did a quick yoga session to stretch our aching backs after long flight hauls, allowing us to fully recharge before heading out for our afternoon city tour. Sometimes, the most meaningful travel moments happen when you slow down—and Golden Tulip provided us with that much-needed pause

Golden Tulip Bahrain Hotel - Book Now in Agoda.com

Visiting the Grand Mosque in Manama

At around 3:00 PM, we headed out to visit one of Bahrain’s most iconic landmarks—the Al Fateh Grand Mosque in Manama.

Known as one of the largest mosques in the world, Al Fateh Grand Mosque is a masterpiece of Islamic architecture. Built using Italian marble and featuring a massive fiberglass dome, the mosque reflects Bahrain’s deep cultural and religious heritage.

We took time to walk around, admire the intricate details, and capture photos. The atmosphere was calm, respectful, and awe-inspiring—perfect for reflection after a busy international trip.

Bahrain Bay: Iconic Structures & Cool Afternoon Breeze

By 4:00 PM, we made our way to Bahrain Bay, located in the Capital Governorate. This area is famous for its modern skyline and iconic architectural structures, including the Bahrain World Trade Center, known for its sail-shaped twin towers and integrated wind turbines.

We absolutely loved the cool afternoon air and the relaxed yet upscale ambiance of the bay. Walking along the waterfront, surrounded by futuristic buildings and serene views, felt refreshing and energizing.

Bahrain Bay perfectly balances modern innovation with scenic beauty—making it a must-visit, even on a short layover.

Exploring the Ruins: Bahrain Fort (Qal’at al-Bahrain)

Next on our itinerary was a step back in time. We visited the historic ruins in Jidhafs, famously known as Qal’at al-Bahrain, or Bahrain Fort.

This UNESCO World Heritage Site dates back over 4,000 years and was once the capital of the ancient Dilmun civilization, a major trading hub in the Persian Gulf. The layered ruins tell stories of Portuguese, Islamic, and ancient civilizations all in one site.

Walking through the fort felt surreal—imagining centuries of history unfolding in the same place we stood. Even with limited time, this stop added incredible depth and meaning to our Bahrain experience.

Shopping at Bab Al Bahrain Souq (Manama Souq)

No trip is complete without souvenirs, so our final stop was the vibrant Bab Al Bahrain Souq, also known as the Manama Souq. This traditional marketplace is full of life—lined with shops selling spices, textiles, perfumes, and souvenirs. We enjoyed browsing local boutiques and picked up fun and meaningful items, including:

* Playing cards with dollar signs
* Ref magnets and keychains
* Comfortable pants from a local boutique
* An Aladdin’s lamp
* Hand gloves and socks to keep our hands warm during our next stop at Istanbul Airport

The souq perfectly captured Bahrain’s local charm and culture, making it one of the highlights of our short stay.

Goodbye Bahrain: Checking Out & Heading to the Airport

By around 7:00 PM, we returned to the hotel to check out. It felt bittersweet saying goodbye to Bahrain after only 12 hours—but those hours were truly well spent.

At around 9:00 PM, we headed back to Bahrain International Airport for our Gulf Air flight to Manila. The journey was smooth, and after a long but fulfilling travel day, we finally arrived in Manila at around 11:00 AM the following day.

Why a Bahrain Layover Is Worth It

Our 12-hour layover in Bahrain proved that even short stays can be meaningful, enriching, and unforgettable. From grand mosques and ancient forts to modern skylines and bustling souqs, Bahrain offered a complete travel experience in just half a day.If you ever find yourself with a long layover in Bahrain—take it as an opportunity, not an inconvenience. Step out, explore, taste, learn, and create memories.

This Bahrain story will always be special to us—a beautiful pause between Turkey and the Philippines, after celebrating innovation and excellence at the World Robot Olympiad Turkey 2024.

Sometimes, the best adventures happen in between destinations. 💙