UE breaks ground for new campus in Eton Laguna

The University of the East (UE) today held its official groundbreaking ceremony for the university's newest campus in Eton City in Santa Rosa City, Laguna.

"This groundbreaking marks more than just the start of construction. It signifies the unfolding of a shared dream built on collaboration and a sense of community," UE Vice Chairman David O. Chua said.

"This embodies the spirit of partnership. It represents the alliance of three vital forces: the University of the East, Eton Properties Philippines, and the government and people of Santa Rosa, Laguna. And today all three are here together to witness the beginning of this remarkable endeavor," Chua added.

The initial phase of the 19-hectare UE Eton Laguna campus that is set to be operational in a few years will offer comprehensive facilities for basic and higher education, and training and development programs. The expansion will extend the university’s academic footprint beyond Metro Manila and into the dynamic and fast-developing educational hub of Southern Luzon.

"As we break ground today, we also break new ground in our mission. UE Eton Laguna will not just be a campus—it will be a hub of learning, innovation and hope for the South," said UE President and Chief Academic Officer Zosimo M. Battad.

Attending the groundbreaking were government officials led by Santa Rosa lone district Rep. Roy Gonzales, Santa Rosa City Mayor Arlene Arcillas and Cabuyao City Mayor Dennis Felipe Hain, who all expressed support for the initiative and its expected positive impact on the region.

Joining them at the event were UE officials led by Chua, Battad, President Emeritus Ester A. Garcia, members of the board of trustees led by Vivienne K. Tan, former Sen. Ramon Magsaysay Jr., former Transportation Secretary Jaime J. Bautista and UE Ramon Magsaysay Memorial Medical Center Inc. (UERMMMCI) Vice Chairman Wilson T. Young.

Likewise present were President and Chief Executive Officer Kyle C. Tan and Director Karlu Tan Say of Eton Properties Philippines Inc., property development partner of UE.

Reception followed in South Lake Village in Eton City where the UE Band, UE Chorale and the UE Silanganan Dance Troupe performed cultural numbers.

The UE Eton Laguna campus will be the fourth UE location, following UE Manila, UE Caloocan and UERMMMCI Quezon City.

Founded in 1946, UE is a leading private educational institution that once held the record for having the largest student enrollment in Asia.