University of Nueva Caceres Breaks Ground on Learning and Innovation Center in Naga City

Naga City, Camarines Sur - March 07, 2026 - NAGA CITY, Philippines — February 12, 2026 — University of Nueva Caceres (UNC) held the groundbreaking and cornerstone-laying ceremony for its new Learning and Innovation Center (LINC), a multi-story academic facility designed to support technology-enabled, collaborative, and industry-aligned education in the Bicol Region. 

Scheduled for completion in 2027, the LINC Building is part of UNC’s long-term academic infrastructure investment strategy to strengthen higher education in the Philippines and enhance learning environments for future generations of students.

Strategic Investment in Academic Infrastructure University President Dr. Fay Lea Patria M. Lauraya said the project reflects the institution’s response to evolving global education demands.

“The LINC Building represents our commitment to preparing students for a rapidly evolving and technology-driven world,” Dr. Lauraya said. “This facility is not simply an expansion of space, but a strategic investment in the quality, relevance, and accessibility of higher education in our region.”

The new center will feature: 

• Technology-enabled classrooms
• Flexible and collaborative learning spaces
• Research and innovation hubs
• Interdisciplinary engagement areas
• Industry-aligned instructional facilities 

University officials said the building is designed to encourage experiential learning, research productivity, and cross-disciplinary collaboration among students and faculty. 

Institutional and Industry Support 

The ceremony was attended by members of the UNC Board of Trustees and executives from iPeople Inc., the university’s education management partner. 

Present during the event were: 

• Mr. Alfredo I. Ayala, President of iPeople Inc., Chairman of the UNC Board of Trustees, and UNC’s 3rd President 
• Ms. Gema O. Cheng, Executive Vice President and Chief Finance Officer of iPeople
• Ms. Yoda Buyco, Chief Marketing Officer of iPeople
• Ms. Shirley Q. Earnheart, Treasurer of iPeople 

Mr. Ayala emphasized the broader educational impact of the project. 

“Investing in academic infrastructure ensures that institutions like UNC remain responsive to industry needs and global standards,” Ayala said. “The LINC Building strengthens the university’s role in developing highly skilled graduates for regional and national growth.”

Local Government and Community Engagement 

Also in attendance was UNC’s Most Outstanding Alumni Awardee, Hon. Maria Leonor G. Robredo, Mayor of Naga City, along with representatives from local government, business sectors, and media organizations.

Mayor Robredo underscored the importance of institutional development within the city. “Universities play a vital role in regional progress,” she said. “Projects like the LINC Building contribute to economic activity, innovation, and opportunities for young people in Naga City and the wider Bicol Region.”

Cornerstone Ceremony and Blessing 

The event included a ceremonial blessing led by Rev. Fr. Danilo T. Imperial, followed by the laying of the cornerstone, symbolizing the formal commencement of construction. 

University officials noted that the ceremony marked both a structural milestone and a reaffirmation of the institution’s mission-driven foundation.

Advancing Higher Education in the Philippines 

As higher education institutions adapt to digital transformation and interdisciplinary learning models, UNC stated that the LINC Building is intended to serve as a central hub for research development, entrepreneurship initiatives, and community engagement programs. 

The facility is expected to support expanded academic offerings and strengthen UNC’s position as a key contributor to educational advancement in Southern Luzon. 

Construction is scheduled for phased development, with completion targeted for 2027. 

About the University of Nueva Caceres 

Founded in 1948, the University of Nueva Caceres is a private higher education institution based in Naga City, Philippines. UNC offers basic education, undergraduate, and graduate programs across multiple disciplines and is committed to accessible, industry-relevant education, research development, and community engagement in the Bicol Region.