TACLOBAN CITY – Aiming to strengthen science-focused education in Samar, Governor Sharee Ann Tan led the formal turnover of a newly constructed academic building to the Eastern Visayas Regional Science High School (EVRSHS) in Catbalogan City, underscoring the provincial government’s ongoing commitment to improving educational infrastructure.

The new facility, funded by the provincial government of Samar in partnership with the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), is the latest in a series of support initiatives extended to the school. It follows the earlier provision of a new administration building, covered court, learning devices, and other essential learning resources.

The project was made possible through the endorsement and collaborative efforts of Senator Sherwin Gatchalian and Rep. Michael Tan of the province’s 2nd district who worked closely with local stakeholders to bring the project to fruition.

Governor Tan, in her message, emphasized the role of science education in shaping the province’s future leaders and innovators.

“We are proud to sustain our support to EVRSHS and the Catbalogan City Division of DepEd. Quality education begins with creating spaces that inspire and empower,” she said.
The turnover ceremony was attended by local government officials, Department of Education representatives, school administrators, and students—marking another milestone in the province’s push to build a more inclusive, resilient, and future-ready education system.

The provincial government of Samar reaffirmed its commitment to education as a cornerstone of development and vowed to continue forging partnerships that uplift both learners and educators throughout the province.

(LIZBETH ANN A. ABELLA)

TACLOBAN CITY – Residents of Barangays Pongso and Hiagsam in Barugo, Leyte, now enjoy a smoother and safer travel experience following the completion of a vital concrete road project by the Department of Public Works and Highways–Leyte 2nd District Engineering Office (DPWH-L2DEO).

The road improvement initiative involved the construction of Portland Cement Concrete Pavement (PCCP), covering a total of 1,806.6 square meters at 5 meters wide in Site 1, and 114 square meters at 1 meter wide in Site 2, which serves as an extension on both ends.

The project was aimed at easing transportation between the two barangays, especially for farmers and students who rely heavily on the road for daily access.

“This road will ease transportation challenges for the residents of Pongso and Hiagsam, especially farmers and students who rely on it daily,” said District Engineer Leo Edward L. Oppura. “With this development, access to schools, health centers, and local markets will be faster and more convenient.”

Barangay Pongso chairman Noel Avorque underscored the project’s impact, recalling the difficulty residents used to face.

“Before this project, our students and residents had a hard time, especially here in Barangay Pongso. The road used to be muddy and difficult to pass, especially when it rained,” Avorque, speaking in the dialect, said.

“Now, the road is no longer muddy or slippery, and travel has become smooth and easier. We are sincerely thankful to the DPWH for this project. On behalf of all my barangay councilors, we express our deepest gratitude,” Avorque added.

The road construction began on March 3, 2025, and was completed on May 21, 2025. It was funded under the 2025 General Appropriations Act (GAA) with a total budget of P4.87 million7, and implemented by YFL Builders.

The project is part of the national government’s continuing efforts to improve rural infrastructure and boost local development across underserved communities.

(LIZBETH ANN A. ABELLA)