THE Basilan State College (BaSC)-Sta. Clara Campus has received two newly-constructed dormitory buildings from the Ministry of Public Works-Basilan District Engineering Office (MPW-BDEO).
The two dormitory buildings that can accommodate up to 200 students were turned over to BaSC-Sta. Clara Campus on Wednesday, July 16, 2025.
Each two-storey dormitory measures 1,332.97 square meters and features 25 rooms, accommodating four students per room. One building is designated for male students, the other for female students.
The two buildings are equipped with modern amenities, including a roof deck with lavatories, two washing machines, a chiller, and a gas range.
“These dormitories provide not just shelter, but a safe, stable, and dignified environment that allows them to focus on their education without the burden of daily travel or unstable lodging,” MPW Minister Eduard Guerra said in his message read by District Engineer Kasim Hasanin during the turnover ceremony.
Guerra described the dormitories as “not merely a structure of concrete and steel, but a symbol of opportunity, equity, and progress.”
He emphasized that the new facilities aim to address the geographical challenges faced by students.
“For many students who come from remote barangays or far-flung island municipalities, the distance to school often stands between them and their dreams,” he said.
“Beyond the students, this facility will benefit families who can now send their children to college with peace of mind,” Guerra added.
Basilan State College President Haipa Salain formally accepted the dormitories and expressed gratitude for the collaborative efforts behind the project.
She also thanked then Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (Barmm) Chief Minister Ahod Ebrahim, under whose administration the project was conceptualized, and current Chief Minister Abdulraof Macacua, for ensuring its continuity.
Basilan Governor Mujiv Hataman, who attended the turnover ceremony, expressed his support and urged students to appreciate the new facility.
“Napakaswerte ninyo dahil mayroon kayong ganito kagandang dormitory (You are very fortunate to have such a beautiful dormitory),” Hataman told the students.
Hataman also promised to assist the BaSC Sta. Clara Campus in the construction of a Research Center for Agri-Fisheries, as one of the provincial government's priority projects. (SunStar Zamboanga)