𝙃𝙊𝙋-𝙋𝙔 𝙇𝙄𝙏𝙏𝙇𝙀 𝙃𝙀𝘼𝙍𝙏𝙎: NIA, SM City Iloilo bring joy to Calinog learners

ILOILO CITY — More than 300 daycare and elementary school learners in Barangay Binolusan Pequeño, Calinog, Iloilo, received stuffed rabbit toys during a community outreach activity organized by the National Irrigation Administration (NIA) and SM City Iloilo on Oct. 14, 2026.

The initiative, dubbed “Besties of Joy,” aimed to promote children’s emotional well-being, self-confidence and sense of belonging through the distribution of stuffed toys.

The activity brought together young learners, members of the community’s Council of Elders and school faculty at Binolusan Pequeño Elementary School.

Children received cuddly rabbit companions as part of an effort to create a positive and supportive learning environment while encouraging play and social interaction.

Organizers said the toys were intended to serve as reminders to children that they are valued, supported and cared for by their community.

The initiative also recognized the importance of play in childhood development, particularly in helping young learners build confidence and develop positive emotional connections.

The outreach activity was organized through a partnership among the NIA Jalaur River Multipurpose Project II (JRMP II), SM City Iloilo and the faculty of Binolusan Pequeño Elementary School.

The collaboration brought together a government infrastructure project, a private-sector partner and a local educational institution to support children in the upland community.

The JRMP II is a major irrigation infrastructure initiative in Iloilo intended to improve agricultural productivity and strengthen water resources management in the province.

Beyond its infrastructure mandate, the project also participates in community engagement activities in areas connected to its operations.

Organizers said the “Besties of Joy” activity sought to provide more than material assistance by creating a memorable experience for children and fostering a nurturing atmosphere within the school community.

The outreach highlighted the role of partnerships among government agencies, private companies and educational institutions in supporting the welfare and development of young learners, particularly those in rural communities.