AUP Welcomes Groundbreaking of Pedestrian Overpass in Puting Kahoy

The project had been in the works for some time as local stakeholders sought a safer way to cross the busy road outside AUP. The planned overpass is expected to benefit residents, motorists, and pedestrians, particularly AUP students who regularly cross the area when traveling to and from the University.

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The groundbreaking ceremony brought together local government officials, barangay representatives, and AUP administrators. Among those present were Congressman Roy Loyola, 5th District Representative of Cavite; Silang Mayor Gen. Ted Carranza; Vice Mayor Cris “Kidlat” Reyes; Barangay Puting Kahoy Captain Mario Marqueses; and Municipal Counselors: Ara Loyola, Ari Velazco, and Carlo Madlansacay. AUP was represented by Dr. Susy Jael, vice president for academics; Mrs. Aileenmae Silverio, vice president for finance; Dr. Restituto Bualoy, vice president for student services; and Mr. Jeruel Ibañez, Advancement, Philanthropic, and Guest Relations officer.

In highlighting the purpose of the project, the Municipality of Silang described it as an important development for the residents of Puting Kahoy:

“Isang magandang proyekto para sa ating mga kababayan sa Brgy. Puting Kahoy. Layunin nitong gawing mas ligtas at mas maayos ang pagtawid ng mga pedestrian, lalo na sa lugar na maraming dumadaang sasakyan.” (“This is a good project for our fellow residents in Brgy. Puting Kahoy. It aims to make pedestrian crossing safer and more orderly, especially in an area where many vehicles pass.”)

The statement also emphasized the project’s direct benefit to students of AUP: “Malaking tulong din ito para sa ating mga estudyanteng tumatawid papunta at pauwi mula sa AUP, upang mas maging ligtas ang kanilang pagpasok at pag-uwi araw-araw,” (“This will also be a great help to our students who cross to and from AUP, making their daily travel to and from the University safer.”)

“Lubos ang pasasalamat namin kay Congressman. Lagi naman finofollow-up ni Mayor. Mababawasan ang mga aksidente dito sa lugar,” (“We are deeply grateful to the Congressman. The Mayor has also consistently followed up on this project. This will help reduce accidents in the area,”) Barangay Puting Kahoy Captain Mario Marqueses expressed his appreciation for the efforts that brought the project to the community. He also acknowledged the significance of the footbridge project in Silang, noting that it is the second barangay with a pedestrian crossing.

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Mayor Gen. Ted Carranza likewise expressed his appreciation for the initiative, “Lubos na nagpapasalamat sa proyektong pinapamahala ni Congressman sa Silang.”(“We are deeply grateful for the project that Congressman has brought to Silang.”)

In his message, the mayor also thanked AUP for developing quality students and acknowledged the University’s contribution to the community. He shared his intention to send his grandchildren to AUP and recognized the University’s singing groups for bringing honor to Silang.

For AUP, the project was received as a welcome development for the safety and welfare of its students and other members of the University community. “Taus-puso naming tinatanggap ang proyekto at inaasahan naming maitayo at mapakinabangan, (“We wholeheartedly welcome the project and look forward to its completion and use,”) Mr. Ibañez expressed, representing the University.

“Ang footbridge na ito ay magiging simbolo ng ating pagkakaisa at pagtutulungan,” (“This footbridge will become a symbol of our unity and cooperation,”) Congressman Loyola emphasized the project’s significance beyond infrastructure, particularly its role in promoting safety and protecting lives.

He further reflected on the project’s development and the efforts that led to its realization, noting that the initiative had previously been in their strategic planning. “Natuwa kami na nagkaroon na ito ng katuparan.” (“We are happy that this [project] is now in fulfillment.”)

The project reflects the continuing partnership between the local government and the communities it serves. For AUP, the development represents a meaningful response to a longstanding safety concern and an opportunity to strengthen its partnership with the surrounding community. It also reflects Exemplary Service, one of AUP’s core values, as AUP welcomes initiatives that contribute to the safety, welfare, and development of its students and neighboring communities.

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Following the messages, the groundbreaking ceremony formally commenced, with government officials and AUP administrators in attendance. After the program, AUP Food Service provided meals for the guests and participants.

The original article was published on the Adventist University of the Philippines news site.