The iconic Quezon Hall of West Visayas State University (WVSU) in Iloilo City has been fully restored and reopened, marking a significant milestone in preserving both the history and future of education in Western Visayas.

This project was made possible through the collaboration of the Henry Sy Sr. Foundation and the SM Foundation, who worked together to restore the hall, which stands as a cornerstone of WVSU’s rich legacy. Originally completed in 1926, Quezon Hall’s restoration was driven by a deep commitment to preserving Filipino heritage and improving educational infrastructure.

The restoration of Quezon Hall is a comprehensive effort that not only addressed structural issues but also modernized the building to meet the needs of today’s students. According to Dr. Joselito Villaruz, President of WVSU, the collaboration with the Henry Sy Sr. Foundation and SM Foundation was a natural fit, given their shared dedication to education and heritage preservation. "The value of connecting healthy buildings to an enhanced learning environment goes a long way in making strides towards long-term educational investments," Villaruz noted.

Breathing New Life into a Historical Landmark

Under the careful guidance of Arch. Gerard Ibañez, the WVSU Campus Physical Planning Office Head, the restoration project was designed to retain the hall's historical essence while integrating modern updates. The building’s original wooden moldings were preserved, while concrete and steel elements were repaired. Efforts also included the restoration of stairs, columns, and arches, repainting architectural features, and restoring the roof, all while maintaining its historical significance.

The newly renovated Quezon Hall now boasts 24 modern classrooms, faculty rooms, and administrative offices, offering a fresh environment for students and faculty. The College of Arts and Sciences will oversee the management of the facility, serving students from all WVSU colleges.

In addition to improving the aesthetics, the renovation focused on functionality and comfort. The hall now includes new lighting fixtures to improve illumination and added ceiling fans for comfort. Upgraded restroom facilities and structural reinforcements in faculty rooms ensure that the building is equipped for long-term use. Pest control measures were integrated into the construction works as well, addressing previous maintenance challenges.