Sleep, shout, be calmed! As the glass doors of Saint Louis University’s Talged Center slide open, visitors are greeted by a tranquil embrace. Warm lights dance across the room, casting a golden hue on the pristine walls, while the spacious interior whispers of endless possibilities. The Talged Center is more than just a facility; it is a haven, a sanctuary, a safe space.
On 23 July 2024, Saint Louis University (SLU) proudly inaugurated the Talged Center, nestled on the 4th floor of the Fr. Hugo Delbaere Building at the SLU Main Campus. The Center’s name, “Talged,” which means “safe” or “free from danger or injury” in the Ilocano dialect, perfectly encapsulates its mission. This Center is dedicated to fostering the growth and development of students and the broader community, ensuring a secure and supportive environment for all.
The blessing ceremony began with the ceremonial unveiling of ribbon, followed by a solemn yet joyous celebration led by University President Rev. Fr. Gilbert B. Sales, CICM, PhD; SLU Parish Priest and VP for Mission and Identity, Rev. Fr. Emery Mwako, CICM; and Fr. Emmanuel Enjang Pranatal, CICM. Their words echoed through the hall, emphasizing the Center’s role in nurturing not only the minds but also the hearts and spirits of students and staff. Prayers were offered, holy water was sprinkled, and a special benediction was given– all signifying the start of a prosperous journey for the Talged Center.
Ms. Geraldine B. Sanil, the incoming Talged Center Head, then took to the stage with a heartfelt message. She reminisced about the Center’s beginning, the history of its location, concluding to describing the Center as a place that has always felt like home. “This Center was once and always will be a home and a place to belong,” she said. Ms. Sanil extended her gratitude to the unending support of Fr. Gilbert and the SLU VP for Administration, Atty. Shellah Yzanne P. Merced, whose vision and dedication brought the Talged Center to life.
Set to officially open its doors to students in September 2024, the Talged Center stands as a testament to SLU’s commitment to holistic education and community development. It promises to be a safe space where students can find solace, inspiration, and a sense of belonging. It is envisioned to be a third space, a brave space, and a safe space. (by Rita Mae Lopez, UIO Volunteer)
The various safe spaces of Talged
(descriptions by Justine S. Latawan, Center Assistant, Talged Center)
- The Kwentuhan Room – This is the home of Project Sequoia, a movement and mentorship program of the Center for Counseling and Wellness for student volunteers. If you need people you can share, listen, and be real to, this is the place for you. You and your stories are always welcome here.
- The Solo Breakdown Room – Need to be alone for a little while? Come to this room. The walls are soundproof, so you can cry and shout to your heart’s content. If you need someone to talk to afterwards, the Project Sequoia Leaders are willing to hold space for you and listen.
- The Office – Welcome to the Center Personnel’s natural habitat. You need to log in here before doing anything else — besides breathing, of course. If you need assistance, we’re happy to help.
- The Locker Room – Please leave your shoes and bags here! At Talged, you’re encouraged to relax and stay grounded. That means shoes off, and chill on.
- The Group Breakdown Room – Have you ever wished for a place where you and your besties can cry, scream, and rant together? Consider your wish granted! This room is soundproof and padded so whatever happens in this room, stays in this room.
- The Field – Here is the living room for students. You can mingle, sleep, do activities, or lie on the floor while contemplating life. This is the closest thing you can get to sitting on the grass in Burnham Park, but without the bugs and screaming children.
- The Performing Stairs – Our very own mini-theater — stairwell style. You can come here to sing, dance, or share your talents while the audience sits on the steps. This is also the ideal space for brainstorming and group projects.
- The Kitchen – We love bonding over food, and this is the perfect space to do so. Gather around the island and have a chat. You can also conduct mini meetings here, just let the Center Personnel know.
- The Comfort Rooms – The comfort this room provides is beyond just physical and excretory. It is halved in terms of function, with the left side as gender-neutral Safe and Brave Toilets, and the right side as Recreational Cubicles.
- The Recreational Cubicles – In case you need some alone time, the Reading Nook, Sitting Room, and Sound Room are here to recharge your social battery.
- The Safe Toilets – These are our regular gender-neutral toilets, with squeaky-clean walls. Perfect for some peace of mind.
- The Brave Toilets – Graffiti and self-expression is encouraged here. You can freely write and draw on the walls with the marker provided. Likewise, you can read your fellow habitants’ messages while doing your business.
- The Employee Area – Stressed from work? Unplug and escape here for a moment. This is a living room for SLU employees. You can even bring your own pillows and blankets for a quick power nap.
- The Outdoor Garden – Let’s grow plants here together! We’ll have some flowering plants, herbs, and other edible foliage. Let this area be a place of thriving life — including yours.
- Reading Nook – A cozy corner filled with a variety of books and soft seating, perfect for those who want to escape into a different world for a while. Here, you can relax and unwind with a good book in a tranquil environment.
- Sitting Room – Designed for comfort and relaxation, this room offers plush seating and a calming ambiance. It’s an ideal space to take a break, reflect, or simply sit quietly and gather your thoughts.
- Sound Room – For those who need a moment to themselves, this soundproof room provides a private sanctuary. Whether you want to listen to music, meditate, or simply enjoy some peace and quiet, the Sound Room offers the perfect retreat.
