In support to the continuous and uninterrupted learning of children, the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Field Office V – Bicol Region provided 29 Family Tents to various schools for the Baleno, Masbate on Monday, October 6, 2025.
These Family tents, typically used as temporary shelters during disasters, will now serve a new purpose as they will be used as learning spaces for students in the following schools: Amador Bello, Lahong, Lahong Interior, Canjonday, Bangao, Batuila, Polot, Catalino M. Esquilona, Lipata, Cancaharao, Panase, and Gangao Elementary School. This also includes the coastal areas of Carandang, Eastern Capsay, Docol, Cagpandan, Potoson, Magdalena, and Tinapian.
According to Hazel Llanto, 37, Principal I of Cagpandan Elementary School, many classrooms were severely damaged and some completely collapsed due to the recent typhoon #OpongPH.
“Maraming salamat po sa mga Family Tents kasi magtutuloy-tuloy pa rin ang pagkatuto ng mga bata sa kabila ng matinding naranasan mula sa bagyong #OpongPH. Thank you DSWD dahil kahit na malayo kami, hindi niyo iniwan ang Masbate. Kahit malayo kayo sa pamilya niyo inuna niyo pa rin kaming mga Masbateño.” Llanto said.
In collaboration with the Department of Education and Provincial Local Government Unit of Masbate, DSWD Bicol, through the leadership of Regional Director Norman Laurio continues to assist the affected schools for the welfare of Bicolano children.
This initiative is part of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s mandate and DSWD Secretary Rex Gatchalian’s ongoing commitment to support the community, especially the children in these trying times.
Source: DSWD Region V- Bicol