TARLAC CITY (PIA) -- Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) completed a one-storey, two-classroom building at Padapada National High School in Sta. Ignacia, Tarlac.

This is part of the agency’s commitment to address classroom shortages in the public school system and create conducive spaces for learning.

DPWH Tarlac 1st District Engineer Neil Farala said the P5.93-million school building funded under the 2023 General Appropriations Act is a testament to the national government’s continuous efforts to improve educational infrastructure.

"It was reported by the Department of Education that for the 2023-2024 school year, the country is facing a shortage of 159,000 classrooms, a higher figure than last school year's 91,000. We hope that this project will at least alleviate the challenges faced by the management of Padapada National High School,” he added.

The additional two classrooms were designed to accommodate the students comfortably and provide an environment that fosters learning and growth.

"The school building was constructed with adherence to the highest standards, ensuring safety and durability. It is equipped with amenities such as a wheelchair ramp, wash station, comfort room, ceiling fan, and blackboards, providing a conducive learning environment for the students," Farala detailed.

Meanwhile, Head Teacher Eloisa Capinpin commended DPWH for the construction of a new building in their school.

“With the help of the classrooms built by DPWH, malaking tulong ito dahil sa sobrang dami ng population with more than 2,000 na estudyante ng Padapada National High School,” Capinpin shared.

The new educational facility reflects the government's commitment to quality education, providing a safe and comfortable learning environment for students and contributing to their overall development and growth. (MJSC/CLJD-PIA 3)