In Lapu-Lapu: Room shortage a hurdle when classes open

CEBU, Philippines - The shortage of classrooms is still the number one problem in Lapu-Lapu City with the opening of classes next month.

Aside from this, the city government needs additional funds to finance the construction of new school buildings for both public elementary and high schools.

City officials of Lapu-Lapu admitted the amount of the Special Education Fund is too small to construct new classrooms.

A check made by The Freeman from the Department of Education in Lapu-Lapu City showed that the city has been lacking 500 classrooms since 2010. The city government, however, was able to construct almost 300 classrooms.

Aside from the city government, the private sector also played an important role in addressing the lack of classrooms.

City School Division Superintendent Eduardo Ompad said public private partnership is key in improving quality education among students in Lapu-Lapu City.

He expressed his thanks for their support to the Department of Education.

City Mayor Paz Radaza said aside from the special fund for education, the city government needs additional funds to construct more classrooms.

Last year, more classrooms were constructed and repaired in Lapu-Lapu City because of the support of private groups, non-governmental organization and companies, most of which are operating inside Mactan Export Processing Zone.

These include Aboitiz Foundation, Lexmark, Philippine Business for Social Progress, Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation, Sports City International, Filipino Chinese Chamber of Commerce.

Some public elementary and high schools in Lapu-Lapu City are also being adopted by some companies inside Mactan Export Zone. They shoulder the repair and repainting of classrooms.

The support of the parents and residents in the different barangays of Lapu-Lapu City is also acknowledged by education officials under the "Brigada Eskwela" program.

Internet shops warned

Still in Lapu-Lapu City, internet cafe owners and operators have been reminded by the city officials to comply with city ordinances or face closure.

This, after the Lapu-Lapu City government created a task force whose main duties and responsibilities is to monitor the operations of internet cafes, especially those near the schools.

Last year, more than 10 internet cafes were ordered closed after they were found to be violating the ordinance by allowing in students during class hours.

Association of Barangay Council President Joe Dungog said they are fully supporting the strict implementation of the ordinance.

Lapu-Lapu City Acting Police Chief Senior Superintendent Armando Radoc said the police will closely coordinate with the task force created by City Mayor Paz Radaza.

Under the ordinance, students are not allowed to enter internet cafes during class hours.

However, they are allowed if they present a certification from their teachers that they are there to do research.

Violators will face suspension of the operations or revocation of permits. (FREEMAN)