Photo courtesy of the Office of DepEd Secretary Sonny Angara

WEST PHILIPPINE SEA – Teachers in Pag-asa Island (Thitu Island) have received a fresh set of laptops from the Education Department, months after airing their plea amid the growing integrated school in the island.

Teachers in Pag-asa Island hope for more classrooms, personnel 

In a statement on Monday, the Department of Education (DepEd) said 15 laptops were provided to the teachers of Pag-asa Integrated School. There were also 109 school bags distributed, filled with essential supplies for the students.

Education Secretary Sonny Angara led the turnover ceremony.

“With this technology, we hope to lighten the workload of our teachers and unlock the potential of our learners,” said Angara.

“This mission embodies our dedication to ensuring that no Filipino learner is left behind… The government is committed to developing even the most isolated areas, ensuring access to education, services, and security for all,” the education secretary said.

Aside from this, other officials in DepEd held consultations with teachers, parents, and local leaders there to “address challenges in delivering education in the area.”

This includes, DepEd said, measures to improve the island’s living conditions, as well as housing initiatives and transportation services for residents.

Teachers in the island earlier told members of the media that transportation remained a huge challenge for them, as most educators hail from mainland Palawan.

Kathleen Acosta, for example, said teachers in Pag-asa needed projectors and laptops to help students learn.  

Pag-asa Island has 4 classrooms for around 100 students. There are also 13 teachers from kindergarten to junior high school.

Some classes are still taught under the shade of trees. Some classrooms are also divided into two to accommodate classes.