New Horizons for Buttong Integrated School

On July 30, a new chapter began for Buttong Integrated School (BuIS) in Laoag City, thanks to the generous support of the SM Group. The company officially handed over a modern two-story building featuring four spacious classrooms, as part of the Department of Education’s Adopt-a-School Program.

The newly constructed facility is designed to enhance the learning experience for students, boasting fully furnished classrooms equipped with panoramic whiteboards, wall fans, and ample seating for 50 students, including specialized left-handed chairs. Accessibility was a key consideration, with a PWD-friendly restroom, flush toilets, and a handwashing station featuring ten faucets to promote hygiene among the nearly 900 students and over 30 dedicated teachers.

Safety was paramount in the building’s design, incorporating emergency lighting, a fire alarm system, and ramps to ensure that all students can navigate the school safely. This initiative aligns with the SM Group’s broader mission to improve public education infrastructure and create inclusive learning environments across the country.

BuIS has a rich history, having begun as a primary school in 1916 before transitioning to an integrated school in 2022, thanks to the collaborative efforts of local leaders, parents, and the DepEd. The school now serves students from Grades 1 to Junior High School, welcoming learners from various nearby barangays.

With over 110 school buildings constructed through partnerships with SM Prime and other philanthropic organizations, the SM Foundation continues to make significant strides in enhancing educational facilities and supporting the future of thousands of Filipino students. The new building at BuIS is a testament to their unwavering commitment to education and community development.