CATARMAN, Northern Samar (PIA) – The Local Government Unit here convened recently the expanded Local School Board at the Catarman Covered Court to tackle and address timely school-related issues with the opening of face-to-face classes in November.

“This gathering is called for to create a pipeline, to make sure and ensure that the needs of the schools within my area of responsibility be taken care of,” Mayor Antet Rosales said.

Rosales invited other government agencies such as the Department of the Public Works and Highways - Northern Samar First District Engineering Office, the Provincial Government through its Provincial Engineering Office to present all implemented school-related projects for the period 2019-2022 and the projects to be implemented next year.

It was learned that for the period 2019-2022, DPWH-NSFDEO has allotted an amount of P598,660,057 for Catarman covering 42 school buildings and 190 classrooms in 41 school sites, while the provincial government reported five school projects being implemented in the municipality.

On the other hand, Mayor Rosales presented projects being implemented by the LGU through the Special Education Fund to include repair and maintenance of various school facilities particularly those used in the COVID-19 operation, repair of classrooms and parking area, pathways, and waiting shed, among others.

During the forum, concerns on school lots, floodings in schools during rainy season, demolition of old structures, lack of teachers, lack of classrooms, and others were among the issues discussed, noted and assured to be given attention to.

“Just submit all the documents and requests you think are needed by your school, we will look into it and ask assistance from other agencies that could extend funding and assistance. I hope by the coming years we will have a good financial status,” said Mayor Rosales

The expanded school board meeting was attended by school district supervisors within LGU Catarman, principals, school heads, with SB Education Committee Chair Councilor Jennifer Arillo, Provincial Engineer Basiliso Arban, First District- DPWH Engineer Mar Dionald Eiman, Ailene Diaz of PIA, Municipal Treasurer Marieta Pabello, Municipal Budget Officer Delia Laodenio, Engr. Gilbert Cuanico of the Municipal Engineering Office, Rachel Arnaiz of the Municipal Information Office, media partners, and other guests. (MMP/ADiaz/PIA-Northern Samar)