The newly constructed Enrique K. Razon Jr. Hall at De La Salle University Laguna campus is not only a symbol of the university’s commitment to world-class education but also a testament to the expertise and dedication of its alumni.
“As an ANIMOSIBIL member, a DLSAA GCOE subchapter, we seek in promoting a closer union and confraternity among the alumni of De La Salle University Department of Civil Engineering so that we progressively and productively serve God and country to the best of our knowledge and ability. It was great working with our alumni in this project, who were once my students, and now leaders in the industry.” said Dr. Jason Maximino C. Ongpeng, emphasized the significance of collaboration and the application of education in practice.
Enrique K. Razon Hall, a state-of-the-art facility, now stands as the newest addition to the expanding Laguna campus. It houses modern classrooms and collaborative spaces, providing students with an innovative learning environment. It is expected to accommodate the growing student population in the region while supporting DLSU's commitment to excellence in education and research. With its addition, De La Salle University remains at the forefront of providing cutting-edge educational facilities for its growing community of students.
Among those who played key roles in bringing the vision of the new academic building to life are several civil engineering graduates from DLSU, whose contributions in design, planning, and construction were integral to the project's success.
• Jason Maximino C. Ongpeng, D.Eng., PMP, a Full Professor from the Department of Civil Engineering and the Executive Director of the Campus Development Office.
• Maria Emilia P. Sevilla, M.Eng., Assistant Professor from the School of Innovation and Sustainability and the Director of Campus Planning Office.
• Edward E. Aban, M.Eng., Senior Project Manager from Design Coordinates, Inc., the Construction Management firm of the project. He is also an upcoming Professional Lecturer for Term 2 AY2024-2025
• Miguelito R. Alvarado, Project Manager, Building BU from D.M. Consunji Inc. - the general contractor of the building, and one of the Philippines' leading engineering-based integrated construction companies.
• Constantine Uy, General Manager and Chief Operating Officer of Laguna Water, the water supply concessionaire of the campus.
• Ken Gen-Sen L. Chua, JD, MBA, President of TSI Domain, Inc., one of the ceiling contractors that are working on the project.
• Jude Granada, ANZ/PH AP Consultant, Sustainable Buildings and Communities from Arcadis Philippines Inc, the LEED project consultant.
• Alpha G. Mabunga, Engineer from the Campus Planning Office
• Clarence N. Arcilla, Engineer from the Project Management Office
• Joanne Nicole Z. Arac, Engineer from Design Coordinates, Inc.
Engr. Alvarado stated that “Having benefited immensely from a Lasallian education, I am honored to give back to the DLSU community as the Project Manager for DLSU Laguna UHRH Project. My almost 20 years of construction experience, together with my Lasallian education will ensure the project's success while upholding the institution's values of service and innovation. By working collaboratively with a team of talented DLSU Civil Engineer professionals, we are proud to have pioneered the construction of the first LEED-certified school building in the Philippines. This achievement signifies a commitment to sustainable practices. We are excited to contribute to the creation of a healthier, more sustainable learning environment for future generations of Lasallians” which highlights Lasallian education and lifelong learning. He is a LEED Green Associate along with Engrs. Granada and Sevilla.
Engr. Aban emphasized that “With the ever-growing challenges brought about by the complexity of the construction industry, the skills and knowledge acquired through La Sallian education have enable De La Salle Alumni and communities such as Animosibil to thrive and contribute to Nation Building. This project heralded its impact not just to the whole DLSU community, but also to our country and may it serve as a beacon to future DLSU Civil Engineers guided by the DLSU Civil Engineering Department”.
It is noteworthy that Engineers Alpha Mabunga, Clarence Arcilla and Joanne Arac completed their practicum or on the-job training at the Campus Development Office of the university.
Their involvement reflects the university’s robust network of alumni who continue to contribute to the development of infrastructures that shape the future of education and communities.
The success of the project highlights the growing importance of academic institutions and industry collaboration. DLSU’s civil engineering program continues to produce highly skilled professionals who are making lasting contributions to the construction and development sectors.
As the Laguna campus continues to expand, the completion of Enrique K. Razon Hall serves as a reminder of how the university’s alumni play an essential role in shaping the future, not only through education but also through their expertise in creating spaces that nurture the next generation of leaders.
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