In a significant step forward for education in Pangasinan, the groundbreaking ceremony for a new four-story building of the Bayambang Polytechnic College (BPC) took place on Thursday, February 6, 2025. The event was led by First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos, alongside BPC founder Dr. Cezar Quiambao and other dignitaries. The new structure, to be erected on a 1.6-hectare plot in Barangay Bical Norte, will house 32 fully air-conditioned classrooms, marking a substantial upgrade from the current makeshift arrangements in a mall and an old central school.
BPC President Rafael Saygo emphasized the importance of the new building, stating it will offer a permanent learning environment for students. Since its inception in 2022, BPC has been committed to providing free education to 905 students from economically disadvantaged backgrounds, offering bachelor’s degrees in entrepreneurship and agribusiness. Additionally, the college collaborates with the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) to provide free vocational courses.
Dr. Quiambao highlighted the college’s flexible scheduling to accommodate students who work as market vendors, helpers, and farm laborers, underscoring the institution’s dedication to supporting its students’ dual roles. He also stressed the role of education in his family’s ongoing efforts to combat poverty.
Commission on Higher Education (CHED) Chairman J. Prospero de Vera III noted that upon completion, BPC could apply for institutional recognition, potentially qualifying for the free higher education program, which would further alleviate financial burdens for students by eliminating tuition and miscellaneous fees.