DepEd Gives PHP4.19M Aid to Fire-Hit Iloilo School

By Mariela Angella Oladive

The Department of Education has turned over PHP4.19 million in financial assistance to support the rehabilitation of Alimodian National Comprehensive High School, which was severely damaged by a fire on June 2.

Initial police reports estimated the damage at PHP14 million, with 14 rooms—including the canteen and clinic—completely destroyed, and the gymnasium partially damaged.

The ceremonial turnover was held on June 6 during a high-level interface attended by officials from the DepEd Central and Regional Offices, Schools Division Superintendents, and Assistant Superintendents from Western Visayas.

DepEd Undersecretary Atty. Peter Irving C. Corvera led the turnover, underscoring the agency’s commitment to restore damaged school facilities and ensure learning continuity.

OIC Regional Director Cristito A. Eco expressed gratitude for the Central Office’s quick response, noting that the interface helped bridge gaps and align efforts to better serve schools and communities.

The financial aid will cover debris removal and hazardous material clearing, construction of 10 temporary learning spaces, procurement of 10 complete teachers’ kits and 10 play kits, and installation of a temporary water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) facility.

Alimodian Mayor Ian Kenneth Alfeche said the building had been slated for condemnation, but the process was delayed due to the election ban.

The local government has allocated PHP25 million for new classrooms and plans to build temporary makeshift rooms to avoid class disruption when school opens on June 16.

School Principal III Rumar Cubin said the fire started in the laboratory of the Technology Livelihood Building and spread quickly due to the structure’s age.

Students will be temporarily housed in the school’s multipurpose building and other makeshift classrooms.

Cubin also appealed to the public for assistance, noting that the supply office—which stored essential materials for the school opening—was among the affected areas.