ILOILO – A P6.5-million investment from the Iloilo provincial government has given Oton National High School (ONHS) two major facilities that officials say will transform how students grow, learn, and play: a P3.5-million Teen Center and a P3-million football field.
Unveiled on September 9, the projects are expected to benefit more than 5,000 students, combining psychosocial support and grassroots sports development in what provincial leaders hailed as a landmark investment in the future of Ilonggo youth.
“The establishment of the Teen Center marks a pivotal moment in our school’s initiatives to provide psychosocial support for our students. I am profoundly thankful for this generous gift from our Provincial Government,” said ONHS Principal Dr. Darwin Haro during the ceremony.
Provincial Population Officer Atty. Ruel Von Superio underscored that the Teen Center is designed as more than just a student lounge.
“Now, more than ever, we must stand united in building a society where no child is forced into motherhood and every young Filipino is equipped, supported, and empowered to shape our future with dignity and hope,” he declared.
Meanwhile, the football field is envisioned as both a world-class training ground for student-athletes and a venue for community events.
“This project doesn’t just aim to build facilities; it seeks to instill values such as discipline, teamwork, and resilience through sports. We are committed to strengthening grassroots football development and expanding opportunities for young Ilonggos to pursue their passion competitively,” said Dr. Ma. Janelyn T. Fundal, head of the Iloilo Sports Development and Management Office.
Governor Arthur Defensor Jr. reaffirmed that the province’s “Bulig sa Eskwela” program is anchored not just on academics but on total youth development.
“We are not solely focused on your academic achievements within the classroom walls; we are deeply invested in your social lives as well. This is a significant aspect of your lives and future,” he stressed.
Students, too, welcomed the facilities with excitement. “The Teen Center is more than just a place; it’s a venue where we can spend time with friends, find a space to relax, and have an area dedicated to studying,” said Grade 7 student Nina Nicole Tefora.
The inauguration was attended by Vice Governor Lee Ann Debuque, Oton Vice Mayor Jose Niel Olivares, provincial department heads, faculty, and students. The program featured a pledge of commitment signing, induction of officers, ceremonial ribbon cutting, blessing rites, and the unveiling of a commemorative marker.
For ONHS, the P6.5-million project is more than infrastructure—it is a springboard for nurturing well-rounded, empowered, and resilient Ilonggo youth./PN
