The Gokongwei Brothers Foundation (GBF), together with Shang Properties, formally turned over upgraded biology and computer laboratory equipment to the University of the Philippines Integrated School (UPIS) on September 25, 2026, in UP Diliman, Quezon City.
The laboratory upgrades aim to strengthen STEM learning at UPIS by providing students with improved facilities where they can deepen their understanding of scientific concepts and engage in more hands-on learning experiences.
The initiative responds to UPIS and Batch 74’s request for support in modernizing its Biology and Computer Laboratories amid growing student interest in the school’s Applied Sciences and Engineering track and the increasing importance of STEM competencies in a technology-driven world.
Through the upgraded Biology Laboratory, UPIS students will have more opportunities to explore advanced areas of study, including molecular biology and microbiology. While students have previously benefited from workshops conducted in partnership with laboratories under the UP College of Science, access to these activities can be limited by time, budget, and laboratory availability. Bringing additional capabilities directly into UPIS can help make these learning experiences more accessible to students.
The facilities are also intended to benefit the wider UPIS student population, giving more learners opportunities to engage with science and technology through experimentation, observation, analysis, and problem-solving.
“Students need opportunities to ask questions, test ideas, make mistakes, observe results, and discover things for themselves. At GBF, we believe that one of the most meaningful investments we can make is to empower students to build inquisitive and critical minds,” said Lisa Gokongwei, General Manager of the Gokongwei Brothers Foundation.
She emphasized that meaningful Science education goes beyond the classroom, it allows students to see the world through the lens of facts and truth, a challenge that they must rise up to amid the noise of social media and artificial intelligence.
Creating spaces for curiosity and discovery
GBF hopes that the upgraded laboratories will become spaces where students can develop not only technical skills but also curiosity, confidence, and a deeper interest in learning.
For students already considering careers in science and engineering, the facilities can help strengthen their preparation for higher education and future professions. For others, the laboratories may provide their first opportunity to discover an interest in STEM.
GBF also expressed its hope that the facilities will enable UPIS teachers to create richer learning experiences and give students more opportunities to apply what they learn in the classroom.
“A laboratory instrument becomes meaningful when a student uses it to understand a scientific concept for the first time. A computer becomes valuable when it helps a learner turn an idea into something real,” Gokongwei said. “A laboratory becomes truly successful when it becomes a place where curiosity grows into capability.”
Partnership for better learning environments
The project was made possible through the collaboration of UPIS, UPIS Batch ’74, GBF, Shang Properties and Kerry Group Foundation Inc.
Following UPIS’ request for support for the modernization of its Biology and Computer Laboratories, UPIS Batch ’74 reached out to GBF who then partnered with Shang Properties and Kerry Group Foundation to provide funding for new laboratory equipment and computers.
The partnership reflects a shared commitment to create learning environments that help students build the skills needed to thrive in an increasingly scientific, technological, and knowledge-based economy.
Responding to learner needs through Juan Community
The UPIS laboratory upgrades form part of GBF’s broader commitment to addressing the needs of schools and learners through its Juan Community program.
Through Juan Community, GBF works with schools, communities, and partners to identify practical needs that affect the learning experience and respond through initiatives such as donations of equipment, learning resources, and improvements to educational facilities.
The program recognizes that the needs of learners can differ across communities. By working closely with schools and partners, GBF aims to provide support that is relevant, useful, and responsive to the realities faced by students and educators.
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