Graduation Attire

Candidates may wear any of the two approved underlayers (pants or dress) for an academic costume. Candidates for graduation shall strictly observe the following pointers regarding the academic costume:

All candidates should wear the UP Sablay [Hablon (Sinuksok)] as the official academic costume of UPOU (as adopted at the 119th University Council meeting on 23 April 2012) during the Faculty Recognition on Friday, 4 December 2026, and Commencement Exercises on Saturday, 5 December 2026.

In wearing the UP Sablay, the following guidelines should be strictly followed:

  1. The UP Sablay should be worn over
    1. ecru-colored or off-white long-sleeved barong, black pants, and black shoes; or
    2. white or ecru-colored sleeved dress (mid-calf to ankle-length) and closed/peep-toe/sling-back shoes (beige or off-white). Black skirts are not allowed.
  2. The UP Sablay should be worn with minimal to no jewelry.
  3. The UP Sablay should not be worn with corsages and leis.
  4. At the start of the Commencement Program, the UP Sablay should be worn over the right shoulder. After the President has conferred the degree, it is moved from the right to the left shoulder without being taken off.

To learn how to shift UP Sablay during the ceremony, please watch the video below.

Ordering a Sablay and Regalia

Graduands may pre-order their official UP Sablay, UPOU Pin, and Doctoral Hood in advance by accomplishing the Sablay Order Form. Limited stock will be available for on-site purchase at the Main Building Lobby beginning at 7:00 AM on 4 December 2026; ordering online ahead of time is strongly advised to guarantee your preferred size (Small 30″, Medium 36″, Large 42″).

Figure 1: Appropriate graduation attire (with Sablay)

Figure 2: Appropriate graduation attire (with Sablay)

Video Guide for Sablay Shifting, Hooding and Receiving Diploma

Guide to Shifting the Sablay

Guide to Receiving the Diploma

Guide to Hooding of PhD Graduates

COUNTDOWN TO COMMENCEMENT EXERCISES:
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Essential Steps

Important Actions for Graduands

1. Graduate Exit Survey

Complete the online Graduate Exit Survey before applying for University Clearance

Complete Survey →

2. Clearance & Fees

Pay the PHP 300 graduation fee and file your university clearance via AIMS Student Portal before the commencement exercises.

Access AIMS Portal →

3. Sablay & Attire

Review the mandatory academic costume guidelines for wearing and shifting the UP Sablay over approved Filipiniana attire.

Watch Shifting Guide →

4. Studio Portrait

Book an optional portrait photography session with Olive’s Studio at the Learning Commons. Deadline to register is December 2, 2026.

Photo Registration →

⚠️ Guest Seating Policy 

December 4: Each graduand may bring one (1) guest inside the ICC Auditorium for the Faculty Recognition Ceremony.

December 5: Guests of graduands are not allowed inside the ICC Auditorium. Designated campus venues with live web streaming will be available.

ℹ️ University Clearance Notice
You may attend the Commencement Exercises even if your University clearance is still being processed. However, approved clearance is required for diploma release.
🚗 Campus Gate Closure
The UPOU Main Gate will be closed to all vehicular traffic at exactly 9:00 AM on Saturday, 5 December 2026.
Those arriving after the gate closure may enter through the UPLB/IRRI Gate OR the Tabon and IRRI routes.
Please plan your arrival accordingly


First aid kitHealth Safety Measures

For first aid needs or safety concerns, please inform any member of the Reception Committee. Clinic stations are located on campus to address these needs. Graduates are also advised to bring their maintenance medicines.

Please read the health and safety guidelines for your guidance.

ℹ️ Emergency and Safety Reminder Video
To watch the video, please click HERE.