Passi City school opens PHP 2.9 million gym

By Mariela Angella Oladive

A new PHP 2.9 million multi-purpose covered gym was inaugurated at Narciso Ayalin Integrated School in Barangay Aglalana, Pass City, Iloilo on Sept. 8, providing students and teachers with a much-needed venue for school and community activities.

The facility, funded by the Iloilo provincial government, is intended for both educational and recreational use.

Principal Dr. Emilie L. Padernal said the gym has already hosted graduation ceremonies, intramurals, and other events.

“That shows the impact of this project to our community,” Padernal said.

Iloilo Gov. Arthur Defensor Jr., who led the inauguration with Vice Gov. Nathalie Ann Debuque, Mayor Stephen Palmares, barangay officials, and Department of Education representatives, said the project reflects the province’s strong commitment to education infrastructure.

He emphasized that even though education is not a devolved function of local governments, the province will continue to maximize its Special Education Fund to help address the shortage of classrooms in public schools.

“We are committed to education right from the very start, whether the responsibility is ours or not,” Defensor said.

Mayor Palmares expressed gratitude to the provincial government for delivering key infrastructure projects to Passi City since 2016, saying these have significantly improved the lives of Passinhons.