PASSI City – Iloilo governor Arthur Defensor Jr. turned over a P2.9-million multi-purpose gym to Narciso Ayalin Integrated School in Barangay Aglalana on Sept. 8, declaring it a symbol of the provincial government’s broader push to expand educational infrastructure and end classroom shortages.
“This initiative demonstrates our commitment to education, ensuring that we take responsibility for providing quality learning spaces, regardless of whether it falls under the responsibilities of local government units,” Defensor said during the inauguration.
The governor also vowed to tap the province’s Special Education Fund (SEF) to build more classrooms across Iloilo.
“We are committed to education from the very start, whether the responsibility is ours or not,” he said.
The new gym, designed to host both academic and sports events, has already proven its worth, according to school head Dr. Emilie L. Padernal.
“We have utilized this space for various events, from graduation ceremonies to our enthusiastic sports festivals,” she said, citing the school’s recent intramurals.
Vice Gov. Lee Ann Debuque, Mayor Stephen Palmares, barangay leaders, and Department of Education officials witnessed the inauguration.
Palmares thanked Defensor for consistently delivering infrastructure projects since 2016, saying these have “significantly improved the lives of Passinhons.”
With the facility now in place, the provincial government’s commitment goes beyond a single project — it signals a wider effort to uplift Iloilo’s schools and give students brighter, better-equipped futures./PN
