A Project Dedication Ceremony was held on campus on May 20, 2025, at 6:30 in the morning, attended by members of the Board of Trustees, bishops from the Philippines Central Conference of the United Methodist Church, academic and administrative officials, faculty, staff, student representatives, and guests.
Among the projects dedicated was the newly constructed road from the Elementary Gate to the South Gate, officially named Bishop Solito K. Toquero Avenue. A dedication marker was installed at John Wesley Park in commemoration of the late bishop’s contributions.
In a message of remembrance and gratitude, Mr. Mervin Sol Toquero shared that a year before Bishop Toquero passed away, their family visited Casiguran, Aurora, where the bishop began his mission work at the age of 19. He recalled, “Ang kaniyang kwento, pag gumising daw siya sa umaga, ay aalamin na niya kung siya ay maglalakad ng apat na kilometro or 30 kilometro depende sa pupuntahan. So, siguro po noong 19 years old siya, wala sa hinuha niya na ang isang kalsada ay ipapangalan sa kaniya.” He emphasized how his father’s mission and dedication contributed to the establishment of United Methodist Churches in the area.
A pocket garden located at Plaza Acacia across the JJD Garcia Auditorium was also inaugurated. The Printing Hub, located at the University Food Gallery beside the Alumni Affairs Office, was likewise dedicated during the ceremony.
The University Chapel, recently renovated, was rededicated in a short thanksgiving worship service, with University President Dr. Irineo G. Alvaro, Jr. delivering the message.
“Noong nagsimula tayo, akala natin hindi pwede. Pero heto tayo ngayon, lumakad sa bagong [Bishop] Solito K. Toquero Avenue. Umawit tayo sa Pocket Garden. Itong program natin, printed from our Printing Hub. At ang inumin natin from our own water station, Wholy Water. Nagkaroon tayo ng renovated chapel. At mamaya, magkakape tayo sa WESPRESSO Café natin. We gathered not just cut ribbons and unveil new spaces, but we came together to give glory to the One who makes all things possible, our faithful God. Matthew 19:26 says “With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible.” These words remind us that faith fuel dreams, and God fulfill these dreams in His perfect time. Kahit maraming bumps, humps, detour, God will carry us to our dreams. Imagine, nagpasimula tayo ng mga pagawain pero marami tayong nadiscover na mga unpaid dues sa mga suppliers. Imagine, humahakbang tayo papunta sa mga plano natin tapos dadating ang Supreme Court Order para tuparin ang isang obligasyon para sa mga manggagawa sa nakaraang 10 taon at hindi maliit ang halaga. Imagine, iaabot natin ang pangarap para sa mga mag-aaral at manggagawa ng ating Pamantasan, pero may mga pabulong na panunuligsa mula sa anino ng mga nakaraan. Imagine, there were moments we thought the resources were too few, the challenges were too great. O kaya, eka din nila ay the dreams were too big. But God, our provider, our sustainer, our faithful shepherd has shown us that what is impossible for men is always possible for Him; at sa gitna ng kawalan, ika nga, Jehovah Jireh, God will provide, and God has provided,” Dr. Alvaro recounted.
The President also stressed how everyone’s cooperation and sacrifice contributed to what was achieved by the University through these projects.
“These dreams did not come to life through one person alone. It came through prayers prayed together, plans made together, and sacrifices offered together. It was born of a shared vision and rooted in love for this university. We offered and did our best, kaya naman God filled our shortcomings with his Wonders,” he further stated.
An al fresco coffee shop on the second floor of the Library Building, constructed above the canopy of the JJD Garcia Auditorium, was also opened. Named “WESPRESSO,” the coffee shop was named through a student competition. The College of Business and Accountancy won first place in the naming contest, followed by the College of Nursing and the College of Engineering and Computer Technology.
The Wholy Water Water Station was also visited as part of the series of dedications.
The Board of Trustees present during the ceremony included Atty. Juanito R. Carlos, Jr., Chairman; Rev. Egmedio B. Equila, Jr., Vice Chairman; Rev. Celestino I. Cancio, Corporate Treasurer; Dr. Michael P. Fronda, Trustee; and Dr. Margie DG. Dela Cruz, Trustee. The College of Bishops of the Philippines Central Conference was represented by Bishop Ruby-Nell M. Estrella, Bishop Rodel M. Acdal, and Bishop Israel M. Painit.
Guests in attendance included Mr. Mervin Sol Toquero, his wife Raquel, and their two children; Ms. Ria Toquero and her partner; and Ms. Estrella (Bishop Toquero’s cousin) and other relatives. Also present were Mrs. Irene Alvaro, wife of the University President, and their son, Mr. Karlo Nicolas Alvaro.
Photos by Izza Gabrieli DV. Capia (PIO) and Leo Sta. Ana (PIO)
