SMU Inaugurates Dr. Alejandro R. Roces Building and Fr. Gerry Bouckaert, CICM Conference Hall
Saint Mary’s University marked a major milestone in its institutional growth with the blessing and inauguration of the Dr. Alejandro R. Roces Building and the Fr. Gerry Bouckaert, CICM Conference Hall on January 27, 2026. The event underscored the University’s sustained commitment to academic excellence, mission-driven education, and the holistic formation of Marian learners.
University administrators, faculty members, staff, and invited guests gathered to witness the dedication of the new facilities, which are expected to significantly enhance instruction, research, collaboration, and community engagement on campus.
Dr. Joman Baliton, Dean of the School of Health and Natural Sciences (SHANS), emphasized the role of the new infrastructure in strengthening academic preparation, particularly in science-related disciplines. He noted that “these facilities reflect the School’s commitment to producing competent, well-trained, and service-oriented graduates in the health and natural sciences.”
In his message, SMU President Dr. John Octavious Palina highlighted the importance of investing in facilities that support experiential learning. He stressed that “we strongly believe that excellent facilities are critical for delivering a learning-by-doing approach, which are required in preparing our students in meeting the industry requirements.”
The occasion was anchored in prayer led by Fr. Nemesio F. Huesca, CICM, University Chaplain, who invoked blessings for the buildings and for the academic community that will utilize them in the pursuit of learning and service.
The Dr. Alejandro R. Roces Building was formally turned over to the University through a symbolic ceremony involving Engr. Rico Tiongson and Dr. Palina, marking its readiness for academic use. The legacy of its namesake was recalled through a profile read by Dr. Moises Alexander Asuncion, Vice President for Academics, honoring Dr. Roces’ contributions and the values he exemplified.
The official opening of the building was marked by a ribbon-cutting ceremony, followed by the blessing of its floors and laboratories—dedicating each space to excellence in instruction, research, and innovation.
The inauguration also paid tribute to Fr. Gerry Bouckaert, CICM, whose name now graces the University’s new conference hall. His profile was shared by Fr. Philip Yu, CICM, Vice President for Mission and Identity, who highlighted Fr. Bouckaert’s commitment to mission, leadership, and service. The conference hall was subsequently blessed and dedicated as a venue for dialogue, collaboration, and institutional gatherings.
The ceremony concluded with a prayer of thanksgiving, bringing together reflection, gratitude, and hope as Saint Mary’s University continues to strengthen its facilities in support of its academic and missionary endeavors.
Through the inauguration of these two landmarks, Saint Mary’s University reaffirmed its dedication to honoring legacy while investing in spaces that will shape future generations of Marian professionals and leaders.
Written by: Cherrielyn Suyod
Photo by: Eric Grospe, ULRC
SDGs 4, 9, 3, 11, 16, and 17
