Enverga University community gathers for inaugural blessing of new CCJC Building

The Manuel S. Enverga University Foundation (MSEUF) celebrated another historical event with the inaugural blessing of its new three-storey College of Criminal Justice and Criminology (CCJC) building. Rev. Fr. Ferdinand I. Maano, the university chaplain officiated the ceremony, Jul. 18.

Several university officials, including Chairman and CEO Wilfrido L. Enverga with his wife Ms. Grace M. Enverga, and Executive Vice President and VP for Academic and Research Dr. Benilda N. Villenas graced the event. Vice President for External Relations Celso D. Jaballa, Vice President for Finance and University Treasurer Carlito M. Rodriguez, and OIC- Vice President for Administration and Assistant to the President Amalia E. De Los Reyes, also joined and collectively led the ribbon-cutting ceremony.

Some members of the Board of Trustees Atty. Ben Quiling and Atty. Carlito Enverga, with Atty. Joseph Adolfo C. Ilagan, university legal counsel, Dr. Amelita O. Balagtas, assistant to the chairman and coordinator for affiliate schools, Dr. Claudia Odette CJ. Ayala, Assistant to the Vice President for Academics and Research and Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences, Dr.  Rey Oliver S. Alejandrino, Dean of Enverga Law School, and Mr. Arby Lagman, Assistant to the Vice President for Administration and Head of Health and Safety Office were also present at the ceremony.

Deans, directors, department heads, some faculty and employees from the different colleges and offices likwise joined during the event. The building architect, Ar. Raul Villanueva with his wife Mitchy Villanueva, and Mr. Zaldy Gariguez from the Office of Congressman Mark M. Enverga of the First District of Quezon also joined the event.

In her inspiring address, Dr. Villenas emphasized the profound significance of the new building saying it is a beacon of knowledge, justice, and dedication, and it symbolizes our commitment to fostering a safer, more just society.

"Within the walls of the building, future leaders will be molded, groundbreaking research will be conducted, and the principles of justice and integrity will be upheld." Dr. Villenas remarked.

Dr. Villenas also addressed the students directly, underscoring their central role in the university’s mission, as the heart of the university.

"I challenge you to reach new heights, to question boldly, and to act with integrity," Dr. Villenas added.

Dr. Villenas also acknowledged the contributions of the faculty and staff of the college headed by Dean Dr. Henedina A. Lagumen.

"Your dedication is the cornerstone of the university’s success. I challenge you to continue your invaluable work by fostering a culture of excellence and innovation in the college and let the new building be a testament to the unwavering commitment to justice, learning, and the betterment of society," Dr. Villenas stated.

Meanwhile, the university’s Educational Media Resource Center (EMRC) presented an audio-visual presentation overview of the CCJC’s milestones showcasing the college’s achievements and future aspirations. The presentation highlighted the establishment of the College of Criminology in 1986 and its journey to achieve recognition from the Commission on Higher Education and accreditation from Level I to Level IV by the Philippine Association of Colleges and Universities Commission on Accreditation (PACUCOA), culminating in its status as a Center of Excellence. It also featured topnotchers in the Licensure Examination for Criminologists, the college’s community extension projects, and its partnerships and collaborations with universities across the country offering similar programs.

Dr. Henedina A. Lagumen, CCJC Dean, expressed her gratitude to the top administration for their support in constructing the new building. She also challenged the students, urging them to take care of the state-of-the-art facilities and use them as an inspiration in their academic pursuits.

"This new building is a gift and a responsibility and may this new building inspire you to excel in your studies and to uphold the values of integrity and justice." Dr. Lagumen remarked.

Ms. Hazel Ann S. Asoy, CCJC Faculty served as the host of the program.

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• SDG 4: Quality Education – The new building and the emphasis on educational excellence and facilities for students and faculty align to ensure inclusive and equitable quality education and promote lifelong learning opportunities.
• SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities- By fostering a safer, more just society and emphasizing the role of the College of Criminal Justice and Criminology (CCJC) in upholding justice and integrity, the news reflects efforts to make cities and communities inclusive, safe, resilient, and sustainable.
• SDG 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions – The focus on molding future leaders in criminal justice, conducting groundbreaking research, and upholding principles of justice and integrity directly supports the goal of promoting peaceful and inclusive societies, providing access to justice for all, and building effective, accountable institutions.