A renewed space for learning, growth, and dreams stood ready to serve the community as SM Foundation, Inc. (SMFI) and Coson Foundation formally turned over the newly renovated Assumption Socio-Education Center (ASEC) in Brgy. Bo. Obrero, in Iloilo City last September 16, 2026.
The turnover ceremony brought together representatives from SM Foundation, Coson Foundation, Assumption Iloilo, the Iloilo City Government, the academe, and the private sector, highlighting a shared commitment to creating meaningful spaces where young people could learn, develop their potential, and build a better future.
Leading the SM Foundation delegation were Ms. Debbie P. Sy, Executive Director of SM Foundation, Inc.; Ms. Carmen Linda Atayde, Executive Director for Education of SM Foundation, Inc.; and Ms. Eleanor “Lingling” Lansang, Vice President of SM Foundation, Inc. Joined by Iloilo City Mayor Raisa Treñas. Also present from SM Foundation were Project Manager Greg Baclea-an Jr. and Project Assistant Jaycee Garcia.
The project was formally accepted by representatives of the Assumption community, led by Sr. Fe Emmanuel Beltran, RA, Head of Apostolate of Assumption Iloilo; Ms. Pia Gan Uygongco, President of AMA, Inc.; Ms. Cynthia C. Baga, former ASEC Executive Director and a 10 Outstanding Ilonggos awardee; and Ms. Hannilyn Delfin-Leonor, PTA President. Officials from Barangay Obrero were also present during the turnover ceremony.
The newly renovated ASEC provided an enhanced environment designed to support education and community development. More than a physical improvement, the project reflected the shared vision of its partners to provide children and learners with spaces where they could feel inspired, supported, and empowered to pursue their aspirations.
For Mayor Treñas, the project carried a deeply personal meaning. As an alumna of Assumption Iloilo, she described the occasion as a homecoming of sorts and a reminder of the values that continued to shape her public service.
“Being invited to the Assumption Socio-Education Center (ASEC) for the Inauguration and Turnover of the Newly Renovated Buildings was very personal to me as an Assumptionista,” Mayor Treñas shared.
She expressed her gratitude to SM Foundation for undertaking the renovation and to Coson Foundation for funding the facilities.
“Salamat, SM Foundation, Inc. for the renovation and Coson Foundation for the funding sang sini nga facilities. Bangud sa inyo bulig, natigayon ang akon handum nga pasilidad where our children can learn, grow, and reach for their dreams,” she said.
For Mayor Treñas, the project also represented the continuation of a legacy. The education she received at Assumption, she noted, “As an alumna, I can say that one of the things I carry with me in public service is my Assumption education—the values of service to others and putting God first.”
The ceremony was also witnessed by representatives of SM Supermalls, including Kristine Joyce R. Yap, Group Marketing Manager for Visayas, and Troy J. Camarista, Senior PR Manager of SM City Iloilo.
Representing Gain Construction and Development Corp. were Casey Lim, Archt. Ryan Paul Gomez, Archt. Bea Naputo, and Archt. Althea Khate Punzalan, who were part of the team behind the renovation project.
Also witnessing the turnover from the National University (NU) Shared Services, Adolfo D. Aran Jr., Senior Director for Corporate Marketing & Communications Office. NU Iloilo Mary Kareen L. Gancio, Executive/Admin. Director, and Mark Chris M. Lapuz, Academic Director.
The completion of the ASEC renovation underscored the value of partnerships in creating spaces that responded to the needs of communities. Through the collaboration of SM Foundation, Coson Foundation, Assumption Iloilo, and its partners, a facility that served education and community needs was given renewed life and purpose.
The project also reflected SM Foundation’s continuing commitment to initiatives that created opportunities and contributed to the development of communities, particularly through education.
With its newly renovated facilities, ASEC looked forward to welcoming learners, educators, families, and the wider community into a space built not only for learning, but also for nurturing aspirations.
Ultimately, the renewed ASEC stood as a reminder that when institutions and communities came together, building spaces for children could also mean building spaces for their dreams.
