Southern Luzon State University (SLSU) started the celebration of its 18th University Charter Day on March 24, with the theme "Building a Better University and Serving the Greater Community," showcasing the institution’s achievements under the leadership of University President Dr. Frederick T. Villa during his first year in office, which coincided with the celebration.
The festivities began with a Thanksgiving Mass at St. Louis Bishop Parish Church in Lucban, Quezon, followed by a town parade. University officials, faculty members, employees, and students marched towards the SLSU Gymnasium, where the opening program took place. Dr. Arvin N. Natividad, OIC Vice President for Administrative and Financial Affairs and chairman of the 18th Charter Day celebration, warmly welcomed the attendees and acknowledged the dedicated individuals behind the event’s preparations.
In his keynote speech, Dr. Villa emphasized the university’s collective progress and urged the SLSU community to envision its future:
“As we move forward, our vision for SLSU remains clear: to become a premier institution of higher learning that is globally competitive, community-responsive, and academically excellent.”
A special audiovisual presentation by the SLSU Information and Communications Office titled “A Year in Review” showcased SLSU’s accomplishments across seven key areas: Instruction; Research, Development, and Innovation (RDI) Initiatives; Extension and Gender and Development (GAD); Workforce; Administration, Finance, and Infrastructure; Climate Change Adaptation and Disaster Risk Reduction; and Networking. The presentation also reinforced the university’s commitment to its YES SLSU vision, which stands for “Yielding Exceptional Outcomes through Scholastic Excellence, Service-Driven Endeavors, Leadership by Example, Spiritual Awareness, and Unity in Diversity.”
Looking ahead to 2034, SLSU aims to drive transformative outcomes anchored on five pillars: Academic Excellence and Recognitions; Faculty, Staff, and Student Development; Research and Community Engagement; Sustainable Infrastructure and Digital Transformation; and Governance and Management. Under these guiding principles, SLSU envisions itself as a “Future-Ready, Technology-Driven, and Value-Laden” institution that empowers individuals and fosters sustainable development.
Dr. Villa also presented an overview of four new buildings and facilities set to be inaugurated on the same day. Additionally, he unveiled plans for a groundbreaking project—the transformation of Hermano Pule into “Yuyan’s Ecological and Sustainable Park” (YES Park). Designed as a hub for relaxation, learning, and community engagement, YES Park will feature lounge areas, study and dining huts, and a coffee shop accommodating up to 200 people. This initiative aligns with SLSU’s commitment to sustainability and student well-being.
With a strong vision and a roadmap for the future, SLSU’s 18th Charter Day celebration not only honored its history but also set the stage for continued growth and excellence.
Photos: Jillian Bautista, SMRivere
Layout: SMRivere