THE LYCEUM of the Philippines University in Manila recently opened the Sotero H. Laurel Academic Resource Facility, a resource center featuring brightly colored interiors, couches and tables, and spacious stairs.

LPU named the center after the late senator Sotero H. Laurel.

Former Chief Justice Alexander Gesmundo, Comelec Chairman George Garcia and CHED Chairman Prospero De Vera III were present during the event.

Paolo Sotero Laurel, LPU Assistant Vice President for Non-Academic Operations, said that it was an inspiration from the South Korean TV series “Start-Up.”

“It’s very inclusive, modern, young. We also have interfaith prayer rooms and also gender-neutral toilets. And we also have spaces for students to destress, practice self-care, and take care of their mental health,” Laurel said.

“What fitting tribute, but to erect the Sotero H. Laurel Academic Resource Building in his name, recognizing that all throughout his life, he had been a child of research, with a passion for excellence. Who nurtured LPU through its early years of birth pains to become one of the highly reputable institutions of higher learning in the country,” LPU President Atty. Roberto Laurel said.