One of the latest facilities upgrade in the campus is the renovation of the Multi-Purpose Hall. The refurbishment of the venue aimed at improving the efficient use of space, introduce technical enhancements that will contribute to a better theater experience, and add aesthetic appeal and more character to the place.

Specifically, the main objectives were:

1. To improve the sound, lighting, and acoustic systems of the MPH for it to be a better venue for Xavier’s theater and performing arts groups and performance events or contests.
2. To improve its appearance so as to be more aesthetically-pleasing and presentable when accommodating the numerous special functions that are held there.

To meet these objectives, the following improvements were made:

1. A technical booth was constructed near the main entrance to house the newly-consolidated lighting controls and sound system which were previously separate from each other. This affords operators better control of the technical systems during performances and events.
2. The existing windows at the sides of the hall were removed to minimize sound coming in from outside.
3. To further improve on the hall’s acoustics, jagged false walls on both sides of the room were erected to control the bounce of sound waves. This wall also serves as a cover for the existing movable partitions and air conditioning units which were unsightly.
4. A secondary curtain was put on stage in front of the cyclorama to serve as a pass-through during performances. Vestibule curtains were also installed near the main entrance to filter unwanted light passing through the doors. All the fabrics are now in our standard dark blue color in keeping with the institutional look.
5. A warmer look was achieved with by using the look and feel of wood as a key design element for the walls and the floor. For practicality, the school opted for synthetic alternatives like the wood laminates for the walls and high-grade vinyl floor planks with a wood-grain look, which create a feeling of coziness despite the vastness of the space.
6. The existing house lights were changed from the existing daylight fluorescent lamps to energy-saving warm-white bulbs. The fluorescent stage lights were changed to halogen lamps. These should result in a ‘warmer,’ less glaring and more elegant feel.
7. The fire exit doors have been replaced with more modern ones in keeping with fire safety requirements.
8. The existing restrooms were upgraded and patterned after the GS Lecture Hall and the MPC restrooms, which now sport a cleaner, more modern look.

The newly refurbished MPH can now host special events in style and stage quality productions to meet the high standards of the Xavier community and the general public.

(Note: The MPH renovation was designed and executed under the supervision of Arch. Benino de Ocampo. All the old light fixtures were distributed and used in the other renovation projects.)