The Adventist University of the Philippines Academy (AUPA) held the Inauguration and Dedication Ceremony of the AUPA SPDA Rafael Bennett S. De Castro Performing Arts Stage on September 15, 2026, marking the completion of a facility made possible through the generosity of Dr. Jeimylo de Castro and Kyna de Castro.

The ceremony featured the presentation of the donation, signing of the Deed of Donation, and formal acceptance of the gift by AUP President Dr. Arceli Rosario. The AUP Academy Chorale provided special music and the closing number, while Pastor Gerardo Cajobe led the litany and dedicatory prayer.

In his message, Dr. Jeimylo de Castro emphasized the project’s lasting impact on the University. “Changing the landscape of the University makes a lot of difference,” he said, recognizing the facility as part of the legacy donors hope to leave with AUP. He acknowledged that such contributions “do not come easy,” but affirmed his trust in God’s faithfulness.

De Castro also reminded students not to forget AUP and encouraged them to return in the future. He urged them to contribute to the University’s continued development and “change it so it would become more beautiful.”

Accepting the donation on behalf of AUP, Dr. Arceli Rosario, University president, called on the University community to protect both the facility and the intention behind the gift. “Let’s take care of the donations,” she said. “I charge you to take good care of this one in terms of preserving the purpose for which this is built, the spirit this is built [on]. Preserve this legacy.”

Sharon Perdon, AUPA principal, likewise affirmed the University’s commitment to stewardship. “We commit to take care of these gifts because we are reminded that God is faithful.” She added that through the donors’ generosity, “the ministry here [AUPA] is progressing,” and expressed hope for more projects with Dr. de Castro and other donors.

The ceremony concluded with a dedicatory prayer led by Pastor Restituto Bualoy, the vice president for student services. The newly inaugurated stage stands as a tangible expression of generosity, stewardship, and partnership, carrying with it a shared commitment to strengthen the AUP Academy and its ministry for generations to come.