The Paws Place Coworking Space Is Officially Open

On September 5, Friday, The Paws Place Coworking Space officially opened its doors. The project reimagines the old IT Lab by clearing the rows of outdated equipment and redesigning the interior to accommodate a shared function for the university community. The atmosphere inside is carefully curated by the design team, including university President Victor Vicente “Dean” Sinco, who took part in the planning of the sleek and modern layout.

The interior is outfitted by a mix of modular furniture and a lighting scheme that prioritizes comfort and practicality in the long working hours of the weekday.

The space is designed to be adaptable and to sustain an open and flexible arrangement while maintaining the balance of focus and collaboration. A central area organizes the flow of the room, while cushioned seating lines the walls for those who prefer more private or solitary work. Corners that were unused in the old IT Lab are furnished with tables and chairs, including amenities like study pods which are dedicated to focus their study, and improve productivity by reducing distraction around the area.

There are lounges with generous seating that can accommodate gatherings of up to 5 or 7 people, including a single conference room which can host 10–15 people at a time.

To the east wing of the hall, there is a small bar that offers coffee and snacks. The ceiling is fitted with colored acoustic felts, which absorb sound and help keep the space quiet despite its open plan. Along the walls, a decade’s worth of work from resident artist Hersley Casero enlivens the environment, unfolding into a stimulating panorama that sharpens focus while encouraging conversation in the margins.

Because it is difficult to concentrate in the busy corridors of the resting areas, students and faculty find it hard to settle and continue in their work. With the opening of the Paws Place Coworking Space, anyone who has an active university account can finally claim a place where they can focus and extend study sessions for the long working hours of the weekday.

In the press conference which followed the opening, President Dean did not make light of the university’s commitments for artistic development. By combining and layering of design and function in the lobby, the institution transforms architecture into statement and affirms the value of investing in cultural growth and the integration of artistic practice to deepen the collective experience in the spaces of the institution.

The coworking space is organized through a clear system of use. Four categories of access are provided in total:

Single Seats, which are reserved for solo users who need a quiet personal workspace. It is intended for studying, writing, research, online classes, or individual projects that require focus.

Double Seats, with a table dedicated for two users working together on study sessions simultaneously. Any two-pair student or employee can work on projects or shared assignments that require a considerably larger space by settling in the area. Occupancy is limited to two only, and it is required that additional members who want to join in the session must book a group space larger than the double seats.

Group Seats, a space that is intended for small teams of 2 to 4 members who are actively collaborating and currently working on projects, brainstorming, or any form of productive collaboration that requires exchange of ideas. All members are asked to be present within the 15-minute grace period in order to confirm the booking and avoid forfeiting it.

Long Table, with a dedicated area for small teams of 6 to 12. This is meant for projects larger than group seats and are expected to house design, planning, and other similar types of projects.

Conference Room, which are rooms for groups of 10 or more engaged in academic or professional activities such as presentations, workshops, planning, or consultations. The reserving party is accountable for noise, cleanliness, and the conduct of all participants, and are reminded that observance of discipline in the space is expected.

To streamline scheduling, the MIS developed an online reservation system linked directly to student Kiosk accounts and employee EIS accounts. Users can log in and reserve seating according to their preferred time.

A strict code of conduct is expected from users to maintain the order and rhythm in the coworking hall. It is not possible to reserve for someone, but a registrant who is away can reclaim the seat and check in within the given grace period. The procedure simplifies the process of securing a workspace while ensuring that the facility serves its purpose efficiently.

The official opening was heralded by a formal ceremony attended by the university’s leadership. President Victor Vicente “Dean” Sinco led the ribbon cutting, joined by President Emeritus Mira Sinco, Mr. Luis “Tata” Sinco, and executive officers of the institution. The event and the solemn tone was deepened with a prayer of thanksgiving and a blessing officiated by Msgr. Julius Perpetuo Heruela.

Media personnel were invited in the morning to cover the opening of the coworking space. Reporters and broadcasters from the Press Club, DYWB, Energy FM, TV 5, DYST 103.9 FM, DYGB, DYSR, Yes FM, and PNA were invited to document the event and share updates about the university’s ongoing projects. Senior administrators took the opportunity to engage with questions about programs and upcoming initiatives. Press kits circulated among the media highlighted major developments, including the new College of Nursing building scheduled to open in November and the acquisition of land near Larena Drive in Brgy. Taclobo.