Village Connect
SM Foundation, in collaboration with SM Prime, recently handed over a newly constructed school building to Booy South Elementary School in Tagbilaran City, Bohol. This initiative is part of SM Foundation’s ongoing commitment to supporting education and uplifting communities, a vision inspired by the late SM Group founder, Henry Sy, Sr. The new facility replaces classrooms lost to a fire in 2021, providing students and teachers with a modern, safe, and conducive learning environment.
Marking the 110th school building donated by SM Prime through SM Foundation, the two-story structure features four fully furnished classrooms equipped with curved panoramic whiteboards, wall fans, wall clocks, and flush toilets with wash basins. To cater to the diverse needs of students, each classroom includes 50 armchairs, with specially designed left-handed chairs. Prioritizing the well-being and comfort of the school community, the building also includes dedicated spaces such as a clinic, teachers’ room, mini-library, and a prayer room.
Hygiene and safety are emphasized through the installation of a handwashing facility with ten faucets and the inclusion of emergency lights, a fire alarm bell system, and PWD ramps for accessibility. A PWD-friendly toilet is also available on the ground floor, ensuring an inclusive environment for all students. Additionally, storage rooms are provided to help organize educational materials and equipment.
Supporting the school’s digital learning efforts, Mastercard Philippines, a social good partner of SM Foundation, donated three laptops to enhance the students’ technological skills. These devices were handed over by SM Foundation’s school building team, led by project manager Gregorio Baclea-an and school building head Juris Soliman.
This project is a part of SM Foundation’s School Building Program, which aims to alleviate the classroom shortage in public schools across the Philippines. In collaboration with the Department of Education’s (DepEd) Adopt-A-School Program, SM Foundation identifies schools in need and builds facilities that adhere to national educational standards. By prioritizing safety, accessibility, and modern learning tools, the foundation continues to make a positive impact on public education.
This latest donation not only provides a state-of-the-art educational space but also symbolizes hope and resilience for the Booy South Elementary School community, helping them rebuild after the challenges brought by the 2021 fire. For more information on the SM Foundation School Building Program, visit www.sm-foundation.org.
