TABUK CITY, Kalinga – A new ₱5-million school building was recently inaugurated at Lacnog Integrated School in Barangay Lacnog, providing a significant boost to education in the community.
The 7×9-meter facility, which has two classrooms, was constructed especially for Grades 1 and 2 pupils to meet the increasing demand for better learning environments. The Schools Division Office (SDO)-Tabuk City led the project, which was funded by the Department of Education through the initiative of Kalinga Congress representative (Rep.) Allen Jesse Mangaoang. The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) carried out the construction of the project, guaranteeing adherence to stringent safety and quality standards.
The cooperation of numerous stakeholders, including the city government, barangay officials, the school administration, and private partners, made this accomplishment possible.
“This facility symbolizes our collective commitment to education and the future of our children,” said Ms. Emilia Simeon, School Head of Lacnog Integrated School. “It not only provides a space for learning but also creates opportunities for growth and development.”
During the inauguration, Engineer Samuel Pao-iton, Assistant District Engineer of DPWH Kalinga, announced further development plans, including the construction of a ₱24-million two-story building with four classrooms for Junior High School students this year.
Dr. Carolyn Agyao Mangaoang, representing Rep. Mangaoang, emphasized the importance of maintaining the facility and utilizing it to provide quality education to the community. “This building brings education closer to the heart of our community,” she said. “I encourage everyone to take care of this facility and use it as a stepping stone toward a brighter future for our children.”
On behalf of City Mayor Darwin Estrañero, Mr. Oliver Mendoza, reaffirmed the city government’s ongoing commitment to supporting educational programs. He emphasized how enhancing school infrastructure lowers the likelihood that young people may engage in criminal activity. This sentiment was echoed by Punong Barangay Joel Alunday, who emphasized that building schools within a community is crucial in addressing youth involvement in illegal drugs.
The event also marked the blessing of a recently completed waterworks system that improved the school’s infrastructure and hygienic standards. By Jesse Maguiya