DLS-CSB set to open Innovation Institute in May
THE De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde (DLS-CSB) is scheduled to open the Peter D. Garuccho Jr. Innovation Institute (PDGii) in May.
In a statement, the college said the innovation hub is “envisioned to provide an open environment for curious minds, understand systemic problems, creatively solve them, and champion its implementation.”
The PDGii is the result of DLS-CSB’s partnership with Mr. Garrucho, vice chairman of agribusiness firm Franklin Baker Company and a former Secretary of Tourism and Trade & Industry under President Corazon C. Aquino.
“Some of you may be saying that is a generous Act of Charity. It is, because it represents a major contribution for me. But let me add just as quickly that this is also a major Act of Faith. Many of you who have asked me, what an Institute of Innovation is meant to do. I didn’t know then and I know a bit more now and I still have a ways to go,” Mr. Garrucho earlier said.
“Let me say that my contribution will not end with the payment of the check. I plan to continue to help with my network of experienced friends and businessmen, my many suggestions, and my overall support in our road towards Inclusive,” he added.
The four-storey building, located along Pablo Ocampo St. in Malate, Manila, will be the new home of the college’s Hub of Innovation For Inclusion (HiFi). It is expected to also become a business incubator for social good start-ups.
The building is designed by Javier Design Studios Manila and built by Gain Construction and Development Corporation. It has solar panels that may power 100% of the lighting, while its facade is covered in glass louvres that can be opened to allow air and light.
The lobby, called Empathy Hall, will have space for public talks, meetings and film screenings, while the second floor, dubbed as The Bright Space, houses the main office of HiFi and function halls.
The Maker Space, located on the third floor, provides rooms for start-ups and a workshop area. On the roofdeck, The Evergreen features a garden and event hall.
“HiFi brings together under its roof a cross-pollination of various disciplinary fields, industries, public and private organizations to create rich conversations and open up opportunities to partner in championing innovative solutions,” HiFi Director Abigail Mapua-Cabanilla was quoted as saying in a statement.