“Who knows? The next breakthrough may happen in one of these rooms, or the next biggest technology may be developed inside this building. Years from now, I hope no one speaks only of the day this building was inaugurated; I hope they speak of how well it was cared for and how faithfully it fulfilled its purpose.”

With this message, NEUST President Dr. Rhodora Jugo led the groundbreaking and time capsule laying ceremony for the construction of the four-storey Multipurpose Technology Business Incubation Building at the NEUST Sumacab Campus on July 6, 2026.

Designed as a hub for innovation, entrepreneurship, and collaboration, the facility will integrate sustainable building practices and advanced construction technologies, incorporating energy- and water-conservation systems to promote environmental sustainability and operational efficiency.

In her welcome remarks, Vice President for Research, Extension, and Training Dr. Jean Guillasper emphasized that the project represents more than the construction of a new facility.

“Great ideas deserve a place. Let us remember that today, we are not simply laying the foundation of a building, but a foundation for future innovators, entrepreneurs, and change-makers,” she said.

Presenting the project, SUC Vice President III Atty. Bembol Castillo recalled the University’s 19-year journey in acquiring the property, describing the development as a milestone that reflects NEUST’s long-term vision for innovation.

Atty. Castillo also provided an overview of the building’s features, highlighting how the facility embodies the University’s commitment to becoming a smart university while strengthening its innovation ecosystem.

A prayer offering and blessing for the commencement of construction was led by Rev. Fr. Carl John Taduran, Director of the Youth Ministry of the Diocese of Cabanatuan.

The ceremony was attended by key University officials, including Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Feliciana Jacoba; Planning and Development Director Dr. Kenneth Armas; Infrastructure Development Office Director Engr. Allan Abenoja Jr.; Moral Recovery and Spiritual Uplift Program Director Dr. Elenita Paet; Innovation Management Office Head Dr. Edgelly Vitug; Sumacab Campus Director Dr. Arnold Dela Cruz; Building Maintenance and Office of General and Auxiliary Services Director Engr. Sherwin Allado; Research Department Director Dr. Marilene Hipolito; Extension Services Department Director Dr. Marivic Villegas; Training Department Director Dr. Marilou Pascual; and College of Information and Communications Technology Dean Dr. Ronald Santos, together with faculty members, staff, and guests.

Phase I of the project covers the construction of the building’s operational front section, which includes four office spaces, a common working area, the second floor, and an open hall on the ground level—targeted for completion by the end of the year.

“I hope we make a promise that this will never be taken for granted in the future. I believe that how we care for a shared space says something about how we value the people who will come after us,” President Jugo added.

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