Kabayanihan Classrooms
Kabayanihan Foundation turns over its first Kabayani Classroom
The turnover of the first Kabayanihan Classroom proved to be a memorable and significant event both for Kabayanihan Foundation and the teachers, parents and students of the Daan Elementary School in Socorro, Oriental Mindoro. The sun was still asleep when members of the Kabayanihan Foundation led by Kabayani Alex Lacson and Kabayani Gerry Gamez started their land and sea journey to Daan Elementary School. Though still groggy from sleep, the trip was filled with stories, laughter and the never ending picture-taking opportunities.
After a two and a half hour land trip to the Batangas port and a one hour FastCraft sea journey, we arrived at Calapan, Mindoro. The cool sea breeze was complimented by the warm welcome of Mr. and Mrs. Tani and Dotie Manibo. They graciously served us a delicious breakfast at their home before going to Daan Elementary School. Despite the long and bumpy trip, we enjoyed passing the vast rice fields, rivers and nearby mountains.
Finally, we arrived at the Daan Elementary School. The short program started with a performance of the Socorro Hymn and the Mindoro March by selected pupils of the Daan Elementary School. Daan’s own “Jovit Baldovino” entertained the audience with a wonderful rendition of Journey’s “Faithfully”.
Mrs. Merlene Fabregas, Principal of Daan Elementary School and Mrs. Celestina Patulot, District Supervisor expressed their gratitude to the Kabayanihan Foundation and their donors, including the Alpha Kappa Rho Alumni Council who donated tables and chairs for the students.
In his speech, Kabayani Alex Lacson shared the story of struggle and success of Chief Justice Hilario Davide. “Sana ang susunod na Davide ay galing sa classroom na iyan, sana ang susunod president ay galing sa classroom na iyan” Lacson declared. Lacson also thanked the parents and the members of the community who offered their time and effort to help build the classroom and presented the principal with a plaque to signify the formal turnover. A short ribbon cutting ceremony followed after which, the Kabayanis and teachers enjoyed a small buffet lunch prepared by local and Mangyan students, parents and teachers.
Kabayanis with pupils of Daan Elementary School happily pose in front of the new classroom
Please tell me more about school program. I have just read the chapter in Mr. Alex LAcson’s book by Audry Trinidad and was excited about the possibility of helping with your program. I taught 3rd through 7th grade in the 1970s before leaving to persue a career that could better support a family. Our last child leaves for college in one month and now may be the time to become reaquanted with helping others learn.
July 25, 2011 at 6:53 AM
Greetings!
I am very glad to read about this project ~ kABAYANIHAN cLASSROOM
Hopefully one of the remote Barangays here ni General Santos City will also be a recipient in this project.
Thank you very much!
August 24, 2011 at 12:54 PM