Gicel Roger Salvilla, John Wyne M. Palad, News, Communication Management Office
Sintang Paaralan commenced the construction of its athletes’ dormitory through a groundbreaking ceremony held on April 15, 2026, at the PUP A. Mabini Campus in Sta. Mesa, Manila, marking a significant milestone in advancing student-athlete welfare and strengthening institutional sports development.
The University implements the project under a design-and-build scheme as part of its continuing efforts to provide adequate facilities and essential support services for its growing population of student-athletes. The initiative ensures compliance with Republic Act No. 1076, which mandates higher education institutions with established sports programs to provide necessary amenities for athletic development.
In an interview, Romulo B. Hubbard, Director of the Sports Development Program Office, highlighted the collective effort behind the initiative and recognized the role of the University’s executive leadership in advancing the project.
“This is truly an effort of the University, especially the EXECOM, to provide what is required by law and to respond to the growing number of athletes in PUP,” Hubbard said. “While the University already has existing dormitories, these are no longer sufficient. This project was initially pushed by VP Tomas O. Testor, with the support of VP Alberto C. Guillo and VP Adam V. Ramilo, to further enhance services for our athletes.”
The University is set to develop three dormitory buildings that will accommodate approximately 200 student-athletes. The project directly addresses current capacity limitations and strengthens the University’s ability to attract and retain athletic talent.
“This development ensures compliance with RA 1076 and, at the same time, will attract more athletes to apply to PUP. With improved facilities, we can further strengthen our teams for future leagues,” he added.
Beyond infrastructure, the initiative underscores PUP’s commitment to holistic student-athlete welfare—recognizing the physical, academic, and socio-economic challenges faced by its athletes, particularly those coming from the provinces.
From the students’ perspective, the dormitory project represents a transformative support system that directly responds to their daily realities. Mariel Abonio, a Bachelor of Science in Sports Science student from the College of Human Kinetics and a member of the PUP softball team, shared her insights:
“Happy and blessed because it will help me and other student-athletes. Every time we go to campus, the money and energy we use in commuting can instead be used for our food if the dormitory is already available.”
She further emphasized the practical benefits of the facility, stating, “It’s a big impact because we can save more money and time when we live inside the campus.”
Abonio also highlighted how proximity to training venues can enhance performance and daily routines. “When you’re always commuting, you have to wake up early for training and classes. Going home takes around 30 minutes to an hour, compared to just a five-minute walk to the dormitory. That means you can still do the things you usually do when you arrive home.”
On balancing academic and athletic responsibilities, she added, “It gives you more time and it’s convenient.”
Looking ahead, Abonio expressed optimism for the initiative and future developments: “I hope all athletes can receive a spot in the dormitory, and more projects will be provided for all student-athletes.”
These insights reflect the broader impact of the project—not only as a physical structure but as a strategic investment in student success, equity, and well-being.
Hubbard further emphasized the project’s significance for students coming from outside Metro Manila. “This will greatly support the welfare and development of our student-athletes. Around 80 percent of them come from the provinces, making this a necessary provision. It also significantly boosts their morale,” he said.
The dormitory project also aligns with several United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 4: Quality Education, by creating an enabling environment where student-athletes can better balance academics and sports; SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being, through improved living conditions that support rest, recovery, and performance; and SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities, by providing equitable access to housing and resources for students from diverse socio-economic backgrounds.
By investing in inclusive infrastructure and student-centered support systems, PUP reinforces its role as a state university committed to accessible education, athletic excellence, and sustainable development.
PUP President Manuel M. Muhi led the ceremony together with key officials and stakeholders. The program included a blessing, messages of support, and the formal groundbreaking rites—signifying not only the start of construction, but also a strengthened commitment to the welfare and future of PUP student-athletes.
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