Marking another historic milestone of infrastructure developments toward institutional excellence and continuous advancements, Sorsogon State University (SorSU) officially inaugurated the five-story SorSU Dormtel through a ribbon-cutting and blessing ceremony on March 21, 2025, at the SorSU Dormtel, Sorsogon City Campus.
Dr. Telesforo D. Escoto, in his welcome address, emphasized that SorSU Dormtel stands as A symbol of the University members’ collective effort to provide a conducive and comfortable living space for its guests, students, and other stakeholders.
“Today, as we cut the ribbon and open the doors of this Dormtel, let us remember the collaborative spirit that brought us here. Let us celebrate the legacy of those who came before us and let us embrace the opportunities that lie ahead.”
Notably, the event was honored by the presence of former presidents of the institution: Dr. Antonio E. Fuentes (SSC President, 2005-2013) and Dr. Helen R. Lara (SSC President, 2018-2022). Moreover, representatives from the family of the late Dr. Augusto R. Nieves (SSC President, 1995-2005) and the late Dr. Modesto D. Detera (SSC President, 2014-2018) also graced the ceremony, including Dr. Myla N. Baturiano (daughter of the late Dr. Nieves) and SorSU-Castilla Campus Director, Prof. Andrew F. Detera (son of the late Dr. Detera), who delivered heartfelt messages.
Former SSC President Fuentes, in his message, expressed his profound appreciation for the recognition given by the academe by naming the SorSU Dormtel’s halls after him and his fellow former presidents.
Dr. Fuentes remarked, “I really, really admired what you have done to transform a simple dormitory that I have known into an impressive accommodation that can rival those in our province and probably even the entire region. Thank you so much for honoring me. Thank you so much for the recognition. And, thank you so much for remembering us.”
Similarly, Dr. Lara conveyed how proud she is as a former president regarding the ongoing developments of the University under the leadership of SorSU President De Jesus, noting how it dramatically transformed into what they have envisioned for a better Sorsogon.
She emphasized, “Naming the different halls of this building after us is notable, and I am truly grateful to the officials of this great institution for appreciating and recognizing our contributions.”
Meanwhile, in her heartwarming closing address, SUC President III, Dr. Geraldine F. De Jesus, underscored that the University Dormtel is a project that combines the efforts and resources of the past and present administrations of the academe.
“Without Dr. Nieves, Dr. Fuentes, Dr. Detera, and Dr. Lara, we would not have risen to the ground and reached up the sky — not only with this building but with many other achievements that SorSU is widely known at present. That is why it is only fitting that we attribute and share our accomplishments not only to the present but especially to those who started, developed, and strengthened our University’s foundation.”
Further, the event was likewise attended by Hon. Marie Bernadette G. Escudero (1st District Representative, Sorsogon Province); Ms. Asia Olbes Jao, representative of Hon. Ma. Ester E. Hamor (Mayor, Sorsogon City); and Engr. Rene Loreto Gilbas (Provincial Assessor), in lieu of Hon. Edwin “Boboy” Hamor (Governor, Sorsogon Province). They extended their warm congratulations and highlighted the positive impact SorSU Dormtel will bring to the Province of Sorsogon.
Additionally, the ribbon cutting was facilitated by SorSU President De Jesus, alongside Dr. Fuentes, Dr. Lara, Dr. Baturiano, and Prof. Detera. Following this, Msgr. Felix Elegado Jr. (Parish Priest) led the rite of blessing.
Since its establishment in 1995 as a two-story hostel, SorSU-Dormtel (formerly named Hostel, then changed to Dormitory) has transformed into a five-story building, featuring 20 fully air-conditioned rooms furnished with top-notch amenities, which can accommodate up to 60 guests and visitors. Its four function halls are named after the four previous presidents — Dr. Nieves, Dr. Fuentes, Dr. Detera, and Dr. Lara — in recognition of their invaluable contributions to the development of the University Dormtel.
SorSU Dormtel’s establishment and continuous enhancement exemplify the University’s unwavering dedication to the highest quality standards and its commitment to excellence in service to community members and other stakeholders. (SorSU PIO)
