CITY OF SAN FERNANDO — Bulaon Elementary School in the eponymous barangay here just got a new potable water system, a donation from former mayor and board member Mylyn Pineda-Cayabyab.
Pineda-Cayabyab turned over on Aug. 14 the newly installed water system equipped with a powerful pump, a robust water tank, and a high-quality water filter.
The project was conceived as part of Pineda-Cayabyab’s commitment to improving educational environments, following her recent visit to the school, where she distributed school supplies to Grade 1 students.
It was then that she noted that the existing handwashing facilities needed rehabilitation as the water pressure was consistently inadequate, and the water supply was deemed unsafe for consumption.
At the turnover rites, Pineda-Cayabyab emphasized the critical need for safe drinking water, citing a recent study that indicated the detrimental health effects stemming from inadequate water supplies that can lead to severe health concerns, including intestinal parasites and water-borne illnesses that disproportionately affect children.
“We want to encourage the children to develop the habit of proper handwashing to prevent illnesses,” she said, highlighting the importance of sanitation and hygiene in educational settings.
At the turnover ceremony were Barangay Bulaon chairman Laverni Gopez and school principal Abigail Mendoza, who expressed their gratitude for the initiative. Elvie Mallari, vice president of the Bulaon Elementary School Student-Parent-Teacher Association, cited the transformative nature of the water system donation. “This serves as a major boost to the school’s thrust to promote the well-being of students.”
The contributions made by Pineda-Cayabyab reflect not just an investment in physical infrastructure but also a commitment to the holistic development of the children in the community.
