UST HAS formally inaugurated the Henry Sy Sr. Hall, a medical and research simulation hub seen to build a “legacy” of healing and service and elevate medical education standards in the country.
The seven-story building was launched at the España campus through a blessing and ribbon-cutting ceremony on Saturday, Sept. 28, led by UST Rector Fr. Richard Ang, O.P., University officials and members of the Henry Sy Foundation Inc.
Recalling the groundbreaking ceremony in January 2020, Ang said the University was hopeful and confident on the development of the building until the COVID-19 pandemic halted its construction operations.
“But less than two months later, the pandemic struck and we were somehow worried. But I think with willpower and steely determination, we can make and we can do something impossible. The impossible was made possible through our synergy and collective efforts,” Ang said.
Named after its main benefactor and business tycoon Henry Sy, Sr., the building seeks to offer interactive and student-centered learning, collaborative multidisciplinary research and interprofessional education to the Faculty of Medicine and Surgery.
It houses the Saints Cosmas and Damian Center for Simulation and Research, which houses simulation emergency rooms, surgical theaters, delivery rooms, ultrasound skills laboratory, adult and pediatric intensive care units, medical wards and consultation and control rooms.
“I can’t help but think about all the people who would soon walk through its doors, students from [the Faculty of Medicine and Surgery] eager to learn, the faculty, the doctors excited to teach and the many who will benefit from the advanced facilities and technologies,” Ang said.
“I look forward to seeing the many ways this building, the Henry Sy Sr. Hall, will enrich UST and not just UST but our Filipino community,” he added.
The offices of the UST Research Ethics Board and alumni group Anargyroi Foundation, Inc., which spearheaded the project, as well as the Eduardo Gotamco Tan, M.D. Study Hall are also housed in the building.
Students and faculty members are already allowed to enter the Henry Sy Sr. Hall but some rooms and facilities are still being prepared and are not yet ready for use. F – Ma. Alyanna Selda
