‘Sec. Dizon moved by school conditions, commits funding for key projects’ - Kalinga Dep-Ed SDS Buya-ao

Rizal, Kalinga — Schools in Kalinga that have long struggled with overcrowded and aging classrooms may soon receive much-needed infrastructure support following the visit of Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Secretary Vince Dizon, according to Schools Division Superintendent (SDS) Gloria B. Buya-ao.

Speaking during the DepEd-CAR 2nd Quarter Press Conference on June 2, 2026 in Rizal, Kalinga, Buya-ao said Secretary Dizon personally inspected school facilities, including classrooms and comfort rooms, giving him a firsthand look at the challenges faced daily by learners and teachers.

According to Buya-ao, the secretary examined cracked walls, damaged ceilings, worn-out floors, and cramped comfort rooms during his visit. Moved by the conditions he observed, Dizon committed to support projects included in the Schools Division Office’s master list of priority infrastructure needs.

Among the projects identified for funding is a two-story, six-classroom building for Liwan West Elementary School. While the division appears to have sufficient classroom units on paper, Buya-ao explained that many existing buildings are old, deteriorating, and already due for replacement.

“Some buildings are condemned, but because there’s no available alternative, teachers and communities patch walls, ceilings, and floors just to keep classrooms usable,” Buya-ao said.

The DPWH commitment is expected to help replace unsafe structures with more durable classrooms. Construction of the priority projects is targeted for completion by the end of this year or early 2027.

Buya-ao added that Dizon had earlier assured education officials that classroom projects in Rizal would be prioritized based on the list submitted to him during the visit. Schools identified in the list, including Rizal National School of Arts and Trades (RNSAT), may be among the first to receive assistance.

The visit also highlighted the need for improved sanitation facilities in schools.

Buya-ao recalled that Dizon and his accompanying assistant secretary personally inspected the small comfort rooms being used by learners and noted how inadequate facilities could affect students’ comfort and learning.

“He insisted we push for better comfort rooms,” Buya-ao said, adding that the secretary saw pupils having to bend in cramped spaces. Buyao explained that teachers said these facilities are meant for Grade 2 pupils but are far from adequate.

Despite the planned projects, Kalinga continues to face a significant infrastructure backlog. Buya-ao reported that school supervisors have identified 22 priority schools requiring replacement buildings, with the number expected to increase as Public Schools District Supervisors continue submitting reports and photographs of dilapidated structures.

At present, five classroom projects are under construction, another five are in the procurement stage, and one project remains suspended.

*This article is written by an intern from Kalinga State University, taking BS in Developmental Communications.