ISABELA CITY, Basilan, Dec 2 (PIA) – The
Armed Forces of the Philippines through Western Command (WESCOM) and the United
States Navy through US Naval Construction Battalion - 74 turned over a school
building to the school administrators of Mangingisda West Elementary School in
Palawan during the Dedication Ceremony held last Nov. 28, 2012.
In a press release, WESCOM Commander LtGen Juancho
M. Sabban AFP said that he considered the ceremony as another milestone in the
alliance between the Philippines and the United States of America in the
promotion of education among the youth who represent the nation’s aspirations.
“The spirit of collaboration in protecting
the right to education is very much alive. While we take seriously our role as
protectors of our peace and our seas, we also take earnestly our duty to the
young individuals, who we dedicate, our efforts toward a promising future. The
best hope for tomorrow lies with the young people, who we educate today,” Sabban
said.
According to him, the military’s first
investment priority is the school, which plays a crucial part in security and
economic prosperity.
“With the completion of this building, we are
eliminating the barrier that denies students’ access to better learning. It
will not only provide them the opportunity to enjoy a decent facility, but it
will also pave the way for their development,” he stressed.
In the same report, Head Teacher Neil G.
Bundac expressed gratitude to the military’s development efforts, particularly
in addressing the shortage of classrooms.
“We are very grateful to the concern of
WESCOM and the US Government represented by the US Naval Construction
Battalion. This additional classroom is a monumental gift, which we will
cherish for life. We hope another unit will be coming someday to address the
growing population of our school,” he said.
US Navy Team Leader LT Chris Willich looked
forward to continued partnership with the Philippine military in the implementation
of engineering construction projects meant to benefit the people of Palawan.