MODERN UP DORM TO BE BUILT FOR GRAD, LAW STUDENTS

Senator Edgardo J. Angara keynoted yesterday the groundbreaking ceremonies for the new UP Law Centennial Dormitory, which will be the university's exclusive home for graduate and law students.

As head of the Centennial Commission, Angara explained the rationale behind the creation of living quarters specifically for graduate students in the University of the Philippines.

"It is good that we are now providing accommodation for our graduate students, especially those studying law. It is a wonderful and memorable experience to go through the highs and lows of your academic life with your peers, and creates a strong bond with the community," he said.

Located on Apacible St. of UP Diliman near the School of Statistics and the Shopping center, the construction of the proposed student housing will start within a few weeks.

A more modern, "smart library" is also being considered as one of the future projects for the College of Law. According to Angara, a veteran lawyer and legislator, it is necessary for both the faculty and the students to be able to keep up with the constant changes caused by the dynamism of law.

"Right now, things move so fast and ideas change so rapidly--which is why we must try to keep pace with the developments in law and in society through science and technology," said Angara.

Angara also elaborated on the influences behind the building's design, which is mostly modern but adorned with touches of traditional elements.

"We need a structure that reflects the contemporary times while at the same time incorporating traditional designs that represent the continuity of law--its reverence for precedents and past practices," said Angara.

Also present at the groundbreaking and ceremonial burying of the time capsule--dated an iconic 1/11/11--was fellow UP Law alumnus ex-Chief Justice Hilario Davide, UP President Emerlinda Roman, and Law Dean Marvic Leonen