Agusan Norte gov’t inaugurates 2-classroom building in remote community
By Nora L. Molde
BUTUAN CITY (PIA) — A newly completed two-classroom school building was inaugurated and turned over during a ceremonial event held at the Barangay Simbalan covered court in the municipality of Buenavista, Agusan del Norte.
The infrastructure serves as a major milestone in the provincial government’s efforts to address the challenges in educational infrastructure in the province, especially in far-flung communities.
The school building, valued at P4,999,654.97, was funded by the provincial government of Agusan del Norte, under the leadership of Governor Ma. Angelica Rosedell M. Amante. The project reflected the province’s unwavering commitment to providing a conducive and safe learning environment for learners.
In her message, Gov. Amante emphasized the essential role of education in shaping the future and encouraged stronger parental involvement in the children’s schooling “Your presence here today reflects our shared responsibility in shaping our children’s future. It is our duty to monitor and ensure they are truly attending school. This new school building is a vital instrument in helping our children pursue and complete their education.”
The inauguration also marked the kick-off of Brigada Eskwela 2025 and the conduct of Kumustahan sa Barangay in Simbalan, symbolizing unity among various sectors in support of education and community welfare.
Contributing to the occasion, the Department of Education (DepEd) Caraga Regional Office donated 90 school-go-bags, containing emergency and school supplies, while Sangguniang Bayan member Eduardo P. Makiling extended support through 50 water pails and paint materials. Cash donations were also made by partner banks including China Bank, City Savings Bank, and EastWest Bank.
The event was attended by DepEd Agusan del Norte Schools Division Superintendent Jeanie L. Mativo and Buenavista Mayor Joselito T. Roble who expressed heartfelt appreciation for selecting Barangay Simbalan as the recipient of the school building project.
“It’s heartening to see different agencies unite to bring services to the people of Simbalan. Along with my municipal council, we will continue to work hard to bring progress to our communities,” said Mayor Roble.
The municipal government of Buenavista also provided a range of free services, including medical consultations and medicines, civil and voter registration, seedling distribution, anti-rabies vaccination, and others. Over 600 residents benefited from the services and also received a 5-kilogram sack of rice and packed lunch.
The event underscored the power of collaboration in building not just infrastructure, but stronger and more empowered communities anchored on education and inclusive development. (NCLM, PIA Agusan del Norte with a report from MLGU of Buenavista)