By Marciana Balusdan, PIKP Researcher
The Alejo M. Pacalso Memorial National High school was used as an evacuation center for a total of 4,000 families from First Gate, Ucab, Itogon, Benguet, who were affected by the landslide during Typhoon Ompong. The school was used as an alternative shelter for the evacuees for eight days. Teachers reported for work to give service and render assistance, such as helping to prepare food for the evacuees. The teachers were among the warm bodies, who gave their helping hands to assist their neighbors and community members at their most difficult times.
Some students were also victims of the landslide, including two grade 9 students, who lost their lives during this disaster. So it was a very painful loss for the students and for the whole school.
Allow us to express our solidarity and pay tribute to the hardworking and supportive teachers of Alejo M. Pacalso Memorial National High School. Not only are you the “Molders of Dreams”, but during the times of tragedy, you are there ready to help the community. MABUHAY!