IN PHOTOS: Vying to be an 'Iskolar ng Bayan'

MANILA, Philippines – Students trooped to different examination centers across the country on Saturday, October 21, to take the University of the Philippines College Entrance Test (UPCAT) in the hope of fulfilling their dream to become an “Iskolar ng Bayan.”

According to the Melvin Luis Sabado, assistant director for test administration of UP, an estimated 100,000 students are expected take the examinations in 82 test centers around the country beginning Saturday.

The UPCAT is administered nationwide, from Saturday, October 21, to Sunday, October 22.

Here are some of the scenes at the first day of UPCAT. All photos by Angie de Silva.

PREAPARED. These two UPCAT takers say they did everything to prepare for the exam. They say they'll try their best to be in the roll of successful takers because choosing UP is choosing a brighter future.

FINAL PUSH. While others are relaxing, some are still using their remaining time before the exam to review, hoping to ace the exams.

IT'S TIME. UPCAT takers fall in line for the final briefing and checking before they proceed to their designated testing rooms.

STARTER PACK. A student is armed only with two good quality pencils, a bottle of water, and a test permit.

SUPPORT. Parents show their full support for their children by accompanying them to the testing center.

WAITING. For more than 4 hours, parents have to wait outside the testing center, hoping that the test will go smoothly for their children.

ANTICIPATION. Despite the number of UPCAT examinees and the limited slots, parents are hopeful that their children can get in UP.

HOPEFUL. A parent rests his head on an umbrella while waiting for his child to emerge from the hours-long exam, said to be one of the hardest entrance exams in the country.