TARLAC CITY (PIA) — Students of San Bartolome High School in Mayantoc, Tarlac now have a safer and more comfortable space for sports and other activities with the completion of a 549.95-square-meter covered court built by the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH).
School Head Cezar Ian Senido said the project has brought immediate changes in the daily lives of learners, who now spend their breaks more actively.
“Kasi nga noong wala pang court at open space pa siya, talagang napaka-init po ng part na ‘yan. Pero ngayong may court na, malaki po ang pagbabago—sa lilim pa lang. Ngayon, imbes na puro gadgets ang gamit nila, mas pinipili na nilang maglaro ng basketball at volleyball dito sa court tuwing lunch break,” Senido shared.
DPWH Tarlac 1st District Engineer Neil Farala reported that the project, located in Barangay San Bartolome, began in May 2025 and was completed ahead of schedule.
He explained that the facility is designed not only for sports but also as an additional learning and activity space usable throughout the year.
“This kind of facility could host sports activities and provide additional learning spaces that remain usable even during the rainy season, helping students stay active and engaged regardless of the weather,” Farala said.
The P6.85-million covered court was funded under the 2025 national budget, in line with the Marcos administration’s efforts to strengthen educational infrastructure and support youth development through the Build Better More program.
By investing in school facilities, the government aims to enhance the learning environment of students while promoting physical wellness and community engagement in public schools across the country. (CLJD/RPQ, PIA Region 3-Tarlac)
