AFP, ABS-CBN turn over 50 classrooms in CDO, Iligan

MANILA, Philippines - The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and the ABS-CBN Sagip Kapamilya Foundation have turned over a total of 50 classrooms in storm-ravaged areas of Iligan and Cagayan de Oro cities.

AFP spokesman Col. Arnulfo Burgos Jr. said the turnover was in line with efforts to reconstruct the areas hit by tropical storm “Sendong” last December.

The storm left more than 1,200 people dead and more than 6,000 others injured.

The 50 classrooms were turned over to school authorities in formal ceremonies held in Cagayan de Oro and Iligan last Friday and Saturday, respectively.

Burgos said 30 classrooms were constructed in different schools in Cagayan de Oro, and the rest in Iligan.

These structures were constructed by members of the Army’s 1st Infantry Division and 52nd Engineer Brigade built the classrooms. 

The project was made possible by the partnership forged by the AFP National Development Support Command (Nadescom), the ABS-CBN Foundation and local officials. 

Burgos said the ABS-CBN Sagip Kapamilya Foundation also granted 300 scholarships to students in Cagayan de Oro and Iligan. 

“Numerous projects in other parts of the country are also being undertaken by soldiers as part of the focus in supporting the education sector and efforts on humanitarian assistance and disaster response of the AFP and OCD (Office of Civil Defense),” Burgos said. 

Maj. Gen. Carlos Holganza, Nadescom chief, said the efforts of ABS-CBN Foundation have inspired soldiers to continue serving the people.