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TURNOVER OF BOOKS TO HILAAN ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
Hilaan, Bontoc, Southern Leyte
Thursday, November 24, 2005Submitted by: Felix L. Ocon, Program Administrator
“Time Change and We Change With Them”
This was the message posted on the wall in the principal’s office of Hilaan Elementary. I found it very appropriate as the book donation for Hilaan Elementary School’s library was delivered from Move On Philippines. If we don’t do anything now and as time changes, then nothing will happen to us and to others. We have to help others to change with time… help them have a better life.Books Arrival and Inventory
A balikbayan box containing books, school supplies and toys for Hilaan Elementary School arrived the Philippines on November 16, 2005. Prior to turnover, inventory of books and school supplies were conducted. Then resources were packed and prepared for delivery.Schedule of Delivery and Means of Transportation
Hilaan Elementary School agreed to receive the donated resources November 24, 2005. It required three trips to arrive Hilaan - - (1) a bus ride from Baybay to Bato, Leyte (48 kms); (2) another bus ride from Bato to Bontoc, Southern Leyte (23 kms); and (3) a motor trip from the town of Bontoc to Hilaan (15 kms). Two motorcycles (one motor carrying the books in cartons; one motor for passengers) were requested to bring us and the books to Hilaan so that a turnover be promptly conducted in the morning and to allow us time take the last trip at 1:30PM back to the Sogod, Southern Leyte.Arrival to Hilaan Elementary School and Turn Over Ceremony - Unexpected Arrival
We arrived Hilaan at around 7:00 AM. The principal and teachers were expecting us at 11:00 AM. A text message sent the day before informing them of the change of travel route, means of transportation, time of turnover, etc. was not received due to unstable mobile phone signal in the area. Upon our arrival, teachers and students hurriedly prepare the stage for the ceremony. The school had prepared a short program for the turnover and guests were quickly notified of the change. The program started at 10:00 AM and ended at 11:30 AM.
Distinguished guests and teachers gathered on stage while students were standing on school grounds and taking shelter from the hot sun under umbrellas, trees and sheds.Dance Program, Showcase of Student’s Artistic Talents
There were three dances performed during the ceremony - - two dances from selected grade VI and IV females students, and one dance number by the teachers. The donated computer was used to play the music CD for the dances. Transmittal letter was read and afterwards, I engaged students by asking them questions. Then I asked students who donated the computer and books to Hilaan Elementary School. Laughter erupted when a student answered “Movie on Philippines”.Signing of Acknowledgement Letter
The acknowledgement letter was signed by Officer-in-Charge Elena Ruales, First Barangay Councilwoman Pasciencia Sumodlayon, General PTCA President Mario Orag and School Property Custodian Fausto Lagumbay. The new school principal was out attending a seminar in Tacloban City and was not able to attend.Touching Speeches and Browsing of Books
Inspiring messages were shared by yours truly, the school OIC, 1st Councilor, Gen. PTCA President, student leader and a teacher which were appreciated everyone present. Students listened carefully and were entertained by the dance numbers and excited about touching and reading the books.Students were given a few minutes to brose the books due to hot weather. However, the OIC promised students they will be able to fully view and read the books in the library. Photographs of students and teachers browsing, opening pages and reading the books were then taken.
Lunch and Distribution of Toys
Lunch was served after the ceremony. Toys were then distributed to pre-elementary students inside the classroom. Afternoon classes for pre-K students started at 1:30PM.I waited in the principal’s office for the signed “thank you” letter, student’s impressions and collection of guests speeches. I then took a few more photos of the principal’s office including the school’s organizational chart, bulletin boards, etc. Also, I took time to demonstrate use of computer software programs such as excel (graphs presentation), power point (reporting style), etc.
I left LSU at dawn and did not return until night time. It was a long day but very rewarding.
