On February 20, Guimaras State University (GSU) commemorated a momentous milestone with the groundbreaking ceremony of its expansive five-hectare annex in Barangay McLain. The event was spearheaded by Hon. Alberto J. Lopez and Hon. Emily Relucio-Lopez, who played an instrumental role in actualizing this monumental expansion.

The former Guimaras Governor and Congresswoman, who generously donated the land, articulated her long-cherished aspiration to augment the university’s infrastructure to cultivate academic opportunities for students. She reiterated that education has always been a priority for her and that the donation aims to support the growing needs of GSU’s students and faculty.

A representative of the Governor of the Province of Guimaras, Hon. JC Rahman A. Nava, attended the occasion and conveyed gratitude on behalf of the provincial government. The significance of this expansion in fortifying higher education within the province and enhancing scholastic programs for future generations was then accentuated.

Buenavista Mayor Hon. Samuel T. Gumarin also delivered his words of appreciation, noting that the additional campus would significantly contribute to local development. He lauded the efforts of the Lopez family and all stakeholders involved in making the expansion a reality.

GSU President Dr. Lilian Diana B. Parreño expressed heartfelt gratitude to the donors and foregrounded the impact of this expansion on the university. She stated that the annex would pave the way for improved academic facilities, modernized classrooms, and more research opportunities for students and faculty.

Several distinguished guests were also present to bear witness to this historic occasion, including representatives of Mr. Beaver Lopez of Partido sa Bagong Pilipino, Ms. Imee Ramos and Mark Chua; Hon. Cyril Beltran; Hon. Art Cartel; Vice President for Administration and Finance Mrs. Janet R. Aleman; Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Erly M. Martir; and Vice President for Research, Extension, Training, and Innovation Dr. Julius T. Vergara.

The new annex is expected to house additional learning facilities, laboratories, and administrative offices, furthering GSU’s mission to provide quality education and training to students in Guimaras and beyond.