Under the humanitarian assistance project of the joint military exercise, Filipino, American and Australian troops turned-over the completed one unit, two-classroom school building in Calangitan Elementary School last week.
Speaking in behalf of the soldiers, US Marine Corps 9thEngineer Support Battalion commanding officer LTC.
Soulynamma Pharathikoune said they are committed in helping teachers in raising the next generation as good and productive citizens of the Philippines.
“At the end of the day, we serve. We came here, built the school so that teachers may continue to serve as well. Hopefully, many years from now, we will see the products of your labor and service through these kids who will grow up to be outstanding citizens,” he said.
For his part, Tarlac Vice Gov. Carlito David underscored the importance of education in defeating and overcoming poverty.
Construction of school buildings would be of big help in addressing the shortage of classrooms that affect the learning development of the students, he said.
“This school building will become a manifestation of the strong partnership among the participating countries in this endeavor and the forging of a deeper commitment in improving the quality of education. This is a proof that anything is possible when people join hands and combine efforts with the willingness to help,” David said.
