Celebrating the Uytengsu Family Legacy at Silliman
When the Silliman University (SU) Main Library reopens its doors, Sillimanians will step into a fully transformed facility, equipped with modern resources and innovative spaces. At its heart is the Uytengsu Transformative Learning Center, featuring integrative mini-laboratories designed to promote interdisciplinary approaches in research, instruction, community engagement, and service-learning—furthering the University’s dedication to academic excellence and innovation.
Through the generous donation of Uytengsu Foundation, Inc., this significant upgrade offers users modern resources and enhanced spaces. As SU prepares for the inauguration and blessing of this new learning center, it celebrates the enduring legacy of the Uytengsu family, whose invaluable contributions continue to enrich the Silliman community.
The Wentworth Uytengsu Memorial Scholarship
Since 1953, the scholarship has supported continuing students enrolled at the SU College of Law. Established by Don Tirso Uytengsu, a distinguished SU alumnus and former Trustee, the scholarship honors the memory of his son, Wentworth Uytengsu, whose life was tragically cut short during World War II.
Wentworth was a freshman pre-law student at SU when the war broke out. Barely 17 years old, he was eager to enlist in the Philippine Army alongside his fellow Reserve Officers Training Corps (ROTC) cadets. However, he was deemed ineligible due to his status as an alien.
Undeterred, he channeled his determination into serving his birthplace by organizing a group of volunteers in Dumaguete to support the resistance movement. His courage and commitment ultimately led to his arrest and execution by Japanese forces, making the ultimate sacrifice for his country.
The Uytengsu Hall
Located on the east side of the Silliman main campus, the Uytengsu Hall has been the home of the College of Engineering and Designs. Don Tirso, who was a trustee of SU in 1960, funded the construction of the building. Several years later, the Uytengsu Foundation, Inc. donated money for the building’s rehabilitation.
The Uytengsu Foundation Computer Center
Recognizing the growing importance of computer education in shaping future generations, the Uytengsu Foundation generously supported the construction of a new building to replace the SU Computer Center in 1994. This contribution underscores the foundation’s commitment to advancing technological learning and enhancing academic resources at SU.
The Uytengsu Foundation Computer Studies Hall
Inaugurated in 2007, this three-story building was a generous donation from the Uytengsu Foundation. It is home to the College of Computer Studies, which has grown to become one of the premier computing schools in the country. Its excellence in education and innovation has been recognized by the Commission on Higher Education, designating it as a Center of Excellence in Information Technology.
The Alaska Basketball Court
The basketball court, typically bustling with players especially during Intramurals, stands as another testament to the generosity of the Uytengsu family. This facility was named after the milk company founded by Wilfred Uytengsu Sr., son of Don Tirso.
The Apps Incubation and Development Laboratory
Established in October 2015 through funding from the Uytengsu Foundation in partnership with Apple, Inc., the laboratory empowers youth to transform bold ideas into innovative iOS applications. It fosters creativity, encourages innovation, and turns mistakes into valuable learning opportunities, inspiring students to make a meaningful impact on their community.
The legacy of the Uytengsu family is rooted in generosity, vision, and power to transform lives. Through their enduring support, they demonstrate that philanthropy is not merely about giving; it is about creating opportunities, inspiring innovation, and building a brighter future.
