THE Department of Education (DepEd) has proposed the construction of seven school buildings in selected public elementary schools throughout Dagupan City this year.

This information comes from Resolution No. R-233, passed by the Sangguniang Panlungsod on December 23. The resolution authorizes Mayor Belen Fernandez to enter into a tripartite agreement with the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) and DepEd.

The construction will take place at Bolosan Elementary School, Bliss Elementary School, Bonuan Boquig National High School, Carael National High School, Lomboy Elementary School, East Central Integrated School, and Pugaro Integrated School, necessitating a signed agreement among all three parties.

The Dagupan City government has requested collaboration with DPWH and DepEd to oversee the procurement, construction, supervision, and completion of these projects.

As the national government’s engineering and construction agency, DPWH is tasked with executing and overseeing infrastructure projects, including educational facilities. Meanwhile, DepEd is responsible for providing quality basic education and ensuring adequate school facilities.

To clearly define the roles, responsibilities, and commitments of all parties involved, a Tripartite Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) must be executed. The resolution, therefore calls for Mayor Fernandez’s authorization to sign the agreement.

In an earlier resolution (R-322), the SP respectfully requested Education Secretary Edgardo  “Sonny” Angara  Jr. to extend support for the construction of multi-level school buildings to address the current classroom shortage, replace ageing and structurally unsafe facilities and strengthen disaster-resilient education infrastructure. (Leonardo Micua)