TO ADDRESS the lack of classroom and learning facilities, the Department of Public Works and Highways has allocated more than P187 million for the construction of a new building for the Polytechnic University of the Philippines.

The DPWH on Wednesday said that the 9-story academic building will rise in PUP’s main campus in Sta. Mesa, Manila.

DPWH National Capital Region Director Nomer Abel Canlas said the new building will replace the old structure with six floors to accommodate the school’s growing student population.

“We are as excited as the students in the reopening of schools and return of in-person classes, and one of the ways we are welcoming back our Iskolar ng Bayan is by providing them a bigger, better learning environment,” Canlas said.

The school building project will be implemented in phases. Phase 1 will start with the North Wing, with a funding of P187.3 million. It is estimated to be completed in 12 months.

The ceremonial groundbreaking was graced by DPWH Assistant Secretary Antonio Molano, along with PUP officials and faculty led by University President Manuel Muhi and Executive Vice President Alberto Guillo.