QUEZON CITY, (PIA) --The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) announced the start of construction for the new main academic building of the Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP) Main Campus in Sta. Mesa, Manila that will help address shortage of classroom and learning facilities.

DPWH National Capital Region Director Nomer Abel P. Canlas said that the soon-to-rise modern 9-storey main school building will replace the old structure with six floors that will accommodate PUP’s growing student population.

“We are as excited as the students in the reopening of schools and return of in-person classes, and one of the ways we are welcoming back our Iskolar ng Bayan is by providing them a bigger, better learning environment,” Canlas said.

DPWH Assistant Secretary Antonio V. Molano, alongside PUP officials and faculty led by University President Manuel M. Muhi and Executive Vice President Alberto C. Guillo graced the groundbreaking ceremony held September 8.

Muhi said the project is one of the highlights of a re-engineered university as he continues to bid for a National Polytechnic University status.

“Since my appointment as a president last 2020, infrastructure projects is my focus. I started lobbying for budget to address the long-standing issues about poor facilities in our university,” Muhi said.

“Years from now, I believe that our future students will be filled with gratitude for they have finally been provided with the sufficient learning facilities that they so richly deserve. We will continue to foster an atmosphere that allows our employees, students, and faculty members to thrive while providing a quality education for our PUPian in a safe, secure, and supportive environment,” he added.

The school building project will be implemented in phases by DPWH NCR. Phase 1 will start with the North Wing, with funding allocation of P187.3 million, and is estimated to be completed in 12 months. (DPWH/PIA-NCR)