Pangasinan: The Gokongwei Brothers Foundation (GBF), in partnership with Robinsons Land Corporation (RLC) and the Department of Education (DepEd)'s Adopt-A-School Program, is planning to construct six new classrooms in Pangasinan.

According to Philippines News Agency, the new classrooms will be established at Nalsian-Bacayao Elementary School, San Miguel Elementary School, and Bued Elementary School, with each school receiving two classrooms. Dr. Estela Cari±o, DepEd Ilocos Region director, highlighted the necessity of these classrooms due to frequent flooding issues in the area. She expressed hope that the construction would be completed within the year or early next year, contingent upon weather conditions.

Dr. Cari±o emphasized the importance of the new classrooms in addressing the shortage caused by natural disasters that frequently damage existing structures. She expressed gratitude towards GBF and RLC for their support in building the much-needed educational spaces.

Lance Gokongwei, GBF chairperson, spoke at the groundbreaking ceremony, emphasizing the foundation's mission to support education by investing in infrastructure. He stated that quality education requires not only dedicated teachers and motivated learners but also safe and conducive learning environments. The project aims to support DepEd's efforts to enhance educational settings and highlight the importance of public-private partnerships in expanding educational access.

Gokongwei also acknowledged DepEd's role in identifying schools that require assistance and ensuring that the initiative aligns with the shared goal of providing quality education to Filipino learners. Beyond Pangasinan, four additional classrooms are planned for construction at Emiliano Lizares Elementary School in Bacolod City.