Castilla Campus, last November 27, 2023 – Former Vice President Leni Robredo, Chairperson and President of Angat Pilipinas, Inc., led the groundbreaking for the Angat Buhay Dormitory for Girls at the SorSU-CC Farmers Training Center in partnership with the Australian Embassy and Sorsogon State University (SorSU).
The ceremony began with an opening prayer, setting a solemn tone that was further enhanced by the singing of the National Anthem and the SorSu Hymn. During the opening program, University President Dr. Geraldine F. De Jesus underscored the dormitory’s significance, emphasizing how it will alleviate long travel times and create a nurturing academic community for SorSU-CC students.
Distinguished representatives from the Australian Embassy, Local Implementing Partner Siklab Lingkod Bicol, Program Funder Australian Embassy in the Philippines Mr. Ronald “Bong” Rodriguez, Mr. Than Le PSM Counselor Development, Student Mr. Joshua L. Fajardo, SorSU-CC Supreme Student Council President, Atty. Ma, Leonor “Leni” Robredo, Chairperson and President of Angat Pinas, Inc. (Angat Buhay), and Prof. Andrew F. Detera, Campus Administrator of SorSU-Castilla Campus, expressed unwavering support for the project. They highlighted its potential to transform the lives of its beneficiaries, particularly the students studying at SorSU-Castilla Campus.
The ceremony reached its climax with the ceremonial signing of the Memorandum of Agreement (MOA), symbolizing the commitment of all parties involved in this groundbreaking endeavor. A time capsule was also buried on the dorm site, preserving the essence of this significant moment. To cap it off, Atty. Ma. Leonor “Leni” Robredo planted a grafted Pili tree symbolizing the knowledge and learning that will serve as a beacon for the future beneficiaries of the dormitory.
The Angat Buhay Dormitory aims to provide accessible housing for female students studying at SorSU-Castilla Campus, especially those from distant municipalities. This transformative project promises a conducive environment for learning and personal growth. It offers a safe haven, reducing travel time and financial burdens. Furthermore, it is expected to enhance academic performance while easing the students’ financial burdens.
Beyond academics, the dormitory fosters camaraderie and lasting friendships through shared experiences. Living in a supportive environment away from home equips students with valuable life skills and prepares them for future challenges. Most importantly, the dormitory empowers students of SorSU-Castilla Campus, providing an opportunity for them to realize their full potential, pursue their dreams, and make meaningful contributions to society.
The groundbreaking ceremony represents a significant step towards empowering female students at SorSU-Castilla Campus, demonstrating the power of collaboration and dedication in creating opportunities for education and personal growth.
Catherine Mangampo and Claire Arena (The Bloom) Mr. Marlon Garbin Gabelo and E.J. Arcos