The Office of the Vice President (OVP) and the City Mayor’s Office collaborated to provide 'Pagbabago Bags' to 1,151 students in four public elementary schools in Himamaylan City, Philippines. Mayor Raymund Tongson and Dr. Chris Sorongon from the OVP Satellite Office led the distribution of these bags, which contain educational materials and school supplies. This city-wide initiative, focusing on Grade 1 and Grade 4 students, commenced at Talaban Elementary School, where 176 pupils were the initial beneficiaries, and continued at Don Serafin Gatuslao Elementary School, with 83 pupils receiving the bags.
The peak of the initiative was at Himamaylan Central School, where an impressive 659 students received their 'Pagbabago Bags'. The distribution concluded at Cong. Eliseo P. Limsiaco Elementary School, providing bags to 233 pupils. Mayor Tongson expressed appreciation to Vice President Sara Duterte for her support and extended gratitude to teachers, school heads, and Parent-Teacher Association officers for their cooperation in this city-wide educational effort. The initiative, symbolizing the collaborative efforts of both the OVP and the City Mayor’s Office, underscores their dedication to enhancing the educational experience for learners in the city.
The distribution of 'Pagbabago Bags' extends beyond providing school supplies; it signifies a collective endeavour to offer equal education opportunities, regardless of socio-economic status. The initiative serves as a symbol of optimism for students, ensuring they have the essential tools for academic development. In a broader perspective, this effort by the OVP and the City Mayor’s Office establishes a model for other cities, emphasizing the significance of collaborative initiatives in enhancing the educational environment.