Republic of the Philippines

Schools Division Office - Siargao

Department of Education

On August 6, 2024, the signing of the memorandum of agreement and groundbreaking ceremony for the school’s reconstruction represented a significant and impactful occasion, blending a formal commitment with a deep sense of emotional resonance. The Don Albino Taruc Memorial Elementary School (DATMES), once severely devastated by Typhoon Odette, will be renovated through the solidarity of concerned individuals. This day marked the beginning of the renewal of the humble spaces of learning in DATMES.
The event commenced with the signing of the Memorandum of Agreement (MOA), a document that symbolizes the collective vow to restore what had been previously damaged. Gathered in the signing table were BGen Fernando S Zabat (Ret) – PAFCPIC President, Ms Arlene O Villaflor – PAFCPIC Vice President for Membership Education and Community Services (VPMECS), Ms Karen L Galanida – Schools Division Superintendent, Hon Riza Rafonselle T Timcang, Ms Methos Lian Q Juanite – School Principal, and Mr Rhandy Cordero – representative from the RBEP Construction. Each signature was a powerful affirmation of the shared commitment to the construction project.
Following the signing, attention turned to the groundbreaking ceremony, a symbolic gesture that carried profound meaning in every project of this kind. A designated plot of land had been prepared and ceremonial shovels stood ready. The act resonated deeply with all who watched. This was a tangible sign that the spirit of camaraderie remains unbroken despite the challenges previously faced, and that a brighter future is always within reach.
The students, whose education had been disrupted by the typhoon, looked on with a mix of anticipation and emotion. For them, this renovation of school classrooms represents a return to normalcy, a place where they could once again learn and grow.
This event, aside from being a formal commencement of the project, was a symbol of hope, shared responsibility, and resilience, a pact of rebuilding not only physical structures but also the foundations of learning and education.

The Philippine Army Finance Center Producers Integrated Cooperative (PAFCPIC) held a moving MOA signing and groundbreaking ceremony on August 7, 2024 to kick off its eagerly awaited renovation and construction project in Mariano Matugas Memorial National High School (MMMNHS). The event brought together local officials, representatives from DepEd Siargao, students, and community members in a display of unity.
The event began with a festive atmosphere as students lined up at the school’s pathway to greet the guests and attendees of the event. The excitement was evident as students and teachers took their seats, all eager to witness the beginning of the renewing chapter of their school.
The core of the event was the signing of the Memorandum of Agreement. Each shared personal reflections on the project’s background and impact, emphasizing the deep sense of responsibility that drives their efforts. As stated by BGen Fernando S Zabat (Ret), “Nakakalungkot po na makita pa rin ang bakas ng sakuna dito sa inyong paaralan. The importance of infrastructure in education cannot be overstated. An inspiring school environment is fundamental in effective learning. It is within these walls that our children will dream, soar, and shape their future.” As they signed the MOA, the crowd, student and teachers alike, erupted in applause, marking the official and heartfelt start of the partnership for this project.
The ceremony then moved to the groundbreaking site, where a row of shovels awaited. With a backdrop of the buildings to be renovated, the school principal, DepEd Schools Division Superintendent, RBEP Construction, and all representatives from PAFCPIC donned hard hats. The turning of the first shovelfuls of earth was met with cheers. While the MOA Signing marked the official start of the partnership, the Groundbreaking Ceremony serves as the symbolic beginning of the renovation and construction.
With the groundbreaking completed and the MOA signed, the promise of a better and more inspiring learning environment for the students is gradually taking shape. The premise of this promise will always be the students whose future we aim to secure through these walls that we will build through collaboration and dedication.