Bacolod Mayor Greg Gasataya led the distribution of free school bags and supplies to 9,136 students of Negros Occidental High School (NOHS) during the flag ceremony at the school campus on Monday, August 17.
It marked the first time that the Bacolod City government provided such assistance to NOHS students. The mayor said the initiative was extended to the school since the majority of its learners reside in Bacolod City, a press release from the Bacolod City Communications Office said.
“From now on, we will make sure that every year they receive this program and we will continue to improve it. We will ensure that no Bacolodnon youth is left behind,” Gasataya said.
Grade 7 student Rezlyn Arevalo expressed surprise and gratitude after receiving a sling bag, a box of pens, and writing pads she said she only used to receive during her elementary years.
“Now I have more paper to use and pens, too. I’m thankful to have such help,” Arevalo said.
During his speech, Gasataya recalled that even during his tenure in Congress, he had initiated programs benefiting NOHS, including the construction of 48 classrooms for the school, which is under the Department of Education–Schools Division of Negros Occidental.
“We will make the necessary coordination so that by the next school year, we can make preparations ahead and distribute them before the annual school opening, the same way we do in other government schools,” the mayor said.
Before the opening of classes this school year, the city government distributed school bags and supplies to kindergarten and elementary learners, as well as school bags and PE uniforms to high school students in public schools in Bacolod City.
A total of P90 million from the Special Education Fund (SEF) was allocated for the program, benefiting more than 113,000 learners from various public schools in Bacolod.
Gasataya emphasized that the distribution of free school supplies is not merely compliance with an existing ordinance but a continuing commitment of the city government to strengthen the foundation of education and support learners and their families.
“Together, we are building a stronger foundation for education,” the mayor said.*
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