The University of Southeastern Philippines (USeP) held a groundbreaking ceremony for a new dormitory at its Mintal Campus on May 16, 2025, signaling the start of a new chapter in student development while honoring a legacy grounded in inclusive, culturally appropriate, and relevant education.
The new dormitory will rise on a site that holds deep significance for the University and for the many lives it has touched—the former location of the Pamulaan Center for Indigenous Peoples Education (PCIPE).
Since welcoming its first batch of Indigenous Peoples (IP) students in 2006, PCIPE served as a sanctuary for learning, cultural identity, and empowerment. It nurtured indigenous youth from across Mindanao, shaping them into empowered leaders and development workers committed to building sustainable communities and advancing the rights of Indigenous Peoples—to life, land, self-governance, and cultural integrity.
Choosing to build the dormitory on this hallowed ground stands as a tribute to the contributions of PCIPE—its people, its purpose, and its enduring impact. It exemplifies what meaningful collaboration between government and non-government agencies can achieve. Made possible through a partnership among USeP; the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples Region XI; Assisi Development Foundation, Inc.; ILAWAN, Inc.; and Cartwheel Foundation, the initiative goes beyond infrastructure; it ensures that PCIPE’s legacy lives on, not only in the memories of those who once walked its paths but also in the generations of students who will soon call this new dormitory their home.
USeP President Dr. Bonifacio G. Gabales, Jr., speaking before University officials, faculty, staff, students, partners, and Indigenous and religious leaders, underscored the significance of the day. “This event marks not only the start of a new construction project reviving the life of this community, but more importantly a solemn moment of remembrance, respect, and renewal,” he said.
“Though the fire that struck last year has scarred this place, it did not diminish its meaning.” President Gabales emphasized, “This ground remains hallowed by the footsteps, the dreams and the stories of the over 400 graduates who called this place as their home. Within these grounds, their identities were affirmed, their talents nurtured, and their academic journeys were enriched.” He shared that this same site had once hosted a meeting of the University’s Top Management just a month before the fire a year ago.
The new structure, according to Dr. Gabales, will rise as more than just a dormitory. It will serve as a shared space and a sanctuary for both students and University personnel. “The University envisions that this structure is more than just a building—it will be a bridge linking our past with our future; anchoring our aspirations to be a more inclusive student- and personnel-centered University—a university that honors the roots while embracing the growth of all who are part of this journey.”
He also expressed optimism for continuing USeP’s commitment to Indigenous Peoples education and inclusion with the PCIPE. “Even without the former structure of Pamulaan, we will continue to serve as an inclusive University for members of the IP communities,” Dr. Gabales affirmed.
Moreover, Physical Development Division Director Ar. Ericson P. Europa presented the project background of the dormitory. He shared that the two-storey building is designed to accommodate 82 persons and is targeted for completion on December 5, 2025.
The event is more than a significant achievement in infrastructure—it is a celebration of legacy, a renewal of purpose, and a reaffirmation of USeP’s dedication to providing not only shelter but a sense of belonging as the University continues to build dreams without limits.
