CATBALOGAN CITY, Philippines—Samar State University (SSU) formally opened its new Student Center earlier today, January 9, 2026, through a Blessing and Ribbon Cutting Ceremony that also highlighted the University’s implementation of major student-focused infrastructure projects for the Fiscal Year 2026.
The newly inaugurated Student Center, erected at the SSU Main Campus, Catbalogan City, will serve as a central hub for student leadership and campus journalism as it houses the University Student Council (USC) Office and Conference Room, as well as The Tradesman Office. USC officers and The Tradesman staffers and advisers were present during the ceremony.
The ribbon cutting was led by SSU President Dr. Redentor S. Palencia, alongside Vice-President for Academic Affairs Dr. Felisa E. Gomba, Vice-President for Administration and Finance Engr. Lourdes P. Amante, and Vice-President for Student Affairs and Services Dr. Gina U. Españo, followed by the blessing of the new Student Center officiated by Parish Priest Ferdie Figueroa.
In his brief message, President Palencia announced several major infrastructure projects funded through the University’s General Appropriations Act (GAA), all aimed at benefiting SSU students. Among these is the establishment of a Wellness Center amounting to ₱40 million, set to be constructed within the fiscal year. The center will feature a prayer room, online library, coffee shop, fitness center, and other student-oriented facilities. He also shared updates on the second phase of dormitory construction for both the Main Campus and Mercedes Campus, the planned library at the Paranas Campus, and new academic buildings for the Mercedes Campus and the Samar Island Institute of Maritime Studies (SIIMS).
Emphasizing the student-centered nature of these developments, President Palencia said,
“Para ha iyo [ine] nga mga estudyante. (This is for you, students) To those who will be using this facility, please take good care of it. We hope that [through these projects], you will develop and engage among yourselves as future leaders of our country.”
The ceremony was also attended by key University officials, including Student Welfare and Development Services (SWDS) Director Dr. Mae Cañal, Sports Development Program (SDeP) Director Dr. Randy E. Pacadaljen, Arts and Cultural Heritage Program (ACHeP) Director Mr. Rowell Dacanay, Student Internship Program Director Dr. Gil Amoyan, University Physician Dr. Tricia Yulo, and Quality Assurance Director Mr. Jake Boy Carbonquillo.
The opening of the Student Center reflects SSU’s sustained commitment to providing inclusive spaces that nurture leadership, collaboration, and holistic student development, reinforcing the University’s vision of empowering learners both inside and outside the classroom.
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This supports SDG 4, SDG 3, SDG 9, SDG 11, SDG 16.
