By: Arrantxa I Quipanes and XU Communications and Promotions Office
Powering a Sustainable Future takes a significant move forward as Xavier University - Ateneo de Cagayan has officially commenced the construction of its Solar Photovoltaic Facility Project through a kick-off meeting held on 8 April 2026, 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM at the XU Senior High School Employee's Parking Space. This sustainable initiative, in partnership with the United States Mindanao Renewable Energy Corporation (USMREC), has come a long way and has now officially begun to advance the university's sustainability goals.
XU President Fr Mars P Tan SJ, welcomed the partners and guests, expressing his gratitude to those who have continuously supported the university's initiatives to advance its sustainability goals. He specifically acknowledged key partners, including Mr Henry B Howard, CEO and President of USMREC; Mr Cecilio U Sumaoy, COO and President of Minergy Philippines; and Mr Andrew P Donggay and Engr Cerael C Donggay, CEO and President of Greenergy Development Corporation. In his message, Fr Mars noted the journey of the project — from its early conceptualization prior to his term under former XU President Fr Roberto C Yap SJ, to its present realization. He said the arduous bidding process and board discussions started in 2021, until finally, in 2024, the best offer given by USMREC through Henry Howard was chosen.
“[The solar project starts] here in the Basic Education, but will be done in the remaining buildings at [the Main Campus] and Campus of the Future. I’m thankful to Mr Howard for his patience and his interest in helping the university with his partners. The implementing unit is the VP Admin office under the leadership of Engr Abasolo. This is not just for XU but for the bigger society, helping cut down carbon emissions.”
Special Guest Mr Henry B Howard also reflected on his years as a Jesuit scholar at Xavier University, emphasizing that these formative experiences laid the foundation for his lifelong partnership with the institution through the Henry Howard Scholarship and his continued support for XU's sustainability and environmentally driven initiatives. Mr Howard pointed out that the partnership of XU, Minergy, and CEPALCO aims to provide XU’s existing and future buildings with a rooftop solar energy system to provide daytime electricity. He explained that USMREC will buy the equipment for the project, which means that XU will not be spending anything on it. The energy will be sold to XU, while the unused energy will be sold to CEPALCO.
“Part of the earnings will be given to scholarships to students who will become electrical engineers. I’ve been funding XU scholars since 2001. Why do I like XU so much? In 1974, an exchange student [program] in New York sent me to XU high school in CDO. I got a better education at XU that changed my life.”
Furthermore, Engr Cerael C Donggay stated that the project will involve the supply and installation of 100 kW solar panels for XU Senior High School, and 200 kW solar panels for XU Junior High School and Grade School, specifically outlining the mounting structure installation, from necessary area preparations to the installation of mounting brackets, rails, and solar panels. He noted that the Solar Photovoltaic Facility Project will be seen in its full actuality within a span of 60 calendar days.
“Every second the sun bombards heat on Earth is enough to electrify the whole world for thousands of years. [I commend XU] for this project in its role in [addressing] this global [problem]. We expect the project to be completed in May. To respond to this demand, we have ordered solar panels and are ready to install. Greenergy is the first recognized by the Department of Energy as an energy service company in Mindanao. We are ISO certified and accredited by the Philippine Contractors Accreditation Board (PCAB). We want to do the installation effectively and efficiently [as] there is an expected surge in electricity needs. Seven years ago, I approached Fr Yap, and at that time solar was very expensive, but in the past years there has been a reduction in its cost. This will be the model for other academes and institutions needing solar energy.”
The project was formally commenced through a ceremonial lighting of the solar street lamp, symbolizing the institution’s transition toward a sustainable, resilient, and brighter future through the generation of clean and renewable direct current electricity.
In the closing message of Engr George M Abasolo, XU VP for Administration, he conveyed his deep appreciation to XU's partners for fostering environmental stewardship and sustainable development, and especially acknowledged USMREC, Minergy Philippines, and Greenergy Development Corporation, ending his remarks by saying, "Let this not just be the start of a project, but a lasting commitment to create impact for generations to come."
Also present at the program were officials from Minergy and Greenergy, and esteemed university administrators from Basic Education, headed by VP for Basic Education Pamela Q Pajente, PhD.
The Solar Photovoltaic Facility Project is anticipated to contribute significantly to Xavier University’s efforts to advance a more sustainable and energy-resilient campus. As a Laudato Si’ university, XU remains committed to integrating environmental stewardship in its operations and long-term development plans.