Filinvest, Xavier Ateneo, join forces to provide good opportunities to NorMin students

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The Gotianun-led conglomerate Filinvest and Xavier University – Ateneo de Cagayan jointly established the Andrew L. Gotianun Sr. Center for Integrated Technologies (ALGCIT), a state-of-the-art facility for senior high school students dedicated to promoting innovation, collaboration, and skill development in the field of technology.

“ALGCIT represents a shared vision of Filinvest and Xavier Ateneo to bridge the gap between education and industry, ensuring that students from poor backgrounds have access to high quality education and opportunities for of socioeconomic development,” said Filinvest Development Corporation (FDC) Chairman Jonathan T Gotianun.

Named after visionary entrepreneur and philanthropist Andrew L. Gotianun Sr., ALGCIT addresses the educational needs of marginalized students through scholarships, financial aid, and mentoring programs to ensure equal opportunity. for everyone. Through this initiative, students can break the cycle of poverty, acquire industry-relevant skills, and become valuable technological contributors to the region’s ecosystem.

“In this era of rapid technological development, it is important to equip the future workforce with the skills and knowledge they need to thrive. With ALGCIT, we aim to create a dynamic ecosystem where innovation thrives , driving economic growth and social development,” Gotianun emphasized.

ALGCIT is an endowment from the Andrew Gotianun Foundation and was established in 2018. The program offers specializations in Machining Technology, Instrumentation Technology, and Mechatronics Technology. Filinvest and Xavier-Ateneo welcome their 5th batch of graduates in 2023. Successful graduates not only acquire technical skills but also develop critical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and spirit in innovation. These qualities will undoubtedly position them for success in the job market and empower them to be agents of positive change in their communities.

“I still remember when I received the news that I was accepted into the ALGCIT program. Having the opportunity to study at Xavier University is a life-changing opportunity. This is truly a blessing!” said Paul Laurence Mondelo, one of the outstanding ALGCIT graduates. “We have been given an opportunity to make a positive change in society, and it is our duty to take advantage of this opportunity wholeheartedly,” added Mondelo.

To celebrate the outstanding achievement of the student, a commencement ceremony was held on May 28, 2023, at the Xavier Ateneo SHS covered court, where Gotianun served as the commencement speaker. In his speech, Gotianun encouraged the students to be “true agents of change, be a person for others,” and “always persevere, have courage, and fill the heart with love.”

Apart from the commencement exercise, Fr. Mars P. Tan, President of Xavier Ateneo, presided over the blessing rite of the ALGCIT complex, which includes the Mercedes Gotianun Hall, named after the matriarch of the Gotianun family, which holds the classrooms and laboratories, the Alvarez Hall, which provides offices, classrooms, and workshops, and the Filinvest Hall, the dormitory of ALGCIT scholars. Stakeholders from both parties, including students, attended the blessing rite.

Mercedes Gotianun Hall: The ALGCIT Complex includes Mercedes Gotianun Hall, named after the matriarch of the Gotianun family, which houses classrooms and laboratories. The building is a tribute to Mrs. Gotianun, who founded the Filinvest Group with her husband, Andrew L. Gotianun Sr. Together, they successfully grew Filinvest into a diversified conglomerate with significant interests in critical sectors, making a difference in the lives of Filipinos. The photo above shows FDC Chairman Jonathan T. Gotianun after unveiling the landmark building.

“The Gotianun family’s example of love and generosity has inspired many young students to pursue quality education, giving them hope and concrete opportunities to work after studying and, in return, help their families and contribute positive in the local community,” said Rev. Fr. Tan. He also encouraged ALGCIT scholars to take their studies seriously, work hard, and “contribute to the development of our society.”

Juan Eugenio L. Roxas, President and CEO of FDC Misamis Power Corporation (FDC Misamis), the operator of Filinvest’s flagship baseload power project – the 405 MW Circulating Fluidized-Bed Coal thermal power plant located at the PHIVIDEC Industrial Estate in Villanueva, Misamis. Oriental, joined Gotianun.

Roxas is also a strong advocate of inclusive education. His team actively campaigns every year for students to apply for the scholarship program. “We are proud to partner with Xavier Ateneo,” said Roxas. “Together, we aim to provide a holistic educational experience and empower students from Northern Mindanao to unlock their full potential. This collaboration shows our shared commitment to promote innovation, inclusivity, and socioeconomic development in the region,” said Roxas.

For more information about Andrew L. Gotianun Sr. Center for Integrated Technologies and its application process, please visit https://www.xu.edu.ph/shs/algcitscholarships.