Dagupan DepEd opens newly-restored MacArthur Building
THE Department of Education (DepEd) Schools’ Division Office in Dagupan City has officially taken over utilization and maintenance of the newly-restored MacArthur Building at the West Central Elementary School last week, September 8.
The historical heritage structure, also known as the” Home Economics Building,” was used by American Gen. Douglas MacArthur as command headquarters during the Lingayen Gulf landings on Jan. 9, 1945.
Fourth District Rep. Christopher de Venecia expressed elation over the completion of the restoration of the MacArthur Building that he worked hard with Education Secretary Leonor Briones through the agency’s Heritage School Building Restoration Program.
De Venecia, was one of the authors of House Bill 5577 or the Gabaldon School Buildings Conservation Act that preserves the architectural, historical and social significance of Gabaldon school facilities built from 1907 up to 1946.
He said the restoration of the MacArthur Building was prompted by his plan to make it a tourist destination and a heritage site.
President Duterte signed Republic Act 11194, known as the Gabaldon School Buildings Conservation Act, on January 18, 2019.
Engr. Tatum Grace Manzano, division engineer of DepEd Dagupan, said almost all the wooden components of the original building were restored and preserved to their original form.
The bathtub used by MacArthur was also returned to its original place in the building.
Rita Teresa Riñoza, West Central Elementary School principal , said the newly restored MacArthur Building will have a Home Economics Room, a Library, Museum as a multi -purpose building. (Eva Visperas)
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