Energy Development Corporation (EDC) and Rockwell Land Corporation completed the construction of four typhoonresilient classrooms in the Bicol region. About 180 students will benefit from the new classrooms in Nagutgot Elementary School in Manito, Albay and Rizal Integrated National School in Rizal, Sorsogon.
The Lopez Group led byEDC president and COO Richard Tantoco and Rockwell Land corporate social responsibility manager Vicky Riosa led the turnover of the new classrooms. Vice President Leni Robredo who was the guest of honor at the turnover ceremony in Rizal Integrated National School delivered the keynote message.
“With the ever-changing climate and frequency of extreme weather events, the more we need to typhoon-proof structures such as school buildings to ensure that the education of the youth will not be interrupted. The Lopez Group is committed to help them gain access to quality education and a conducive learning environment,” Tantoco said.
Robredo commended EDC for its CSR programs, particularly those focused on education. Likewise, Sorsogon Gov. Robert Rodrigueza thanked EDC for implementing programs that benefit many Sorsoganons.
The Lopez Group companies started the school rebuilding project in February 2014, initially in support of the reconstruction efforts of the Office of the Presidential Assistant for Rehabilitation and Recovery. The project was eventually expanded to benefit other provinces that were hit by calamities.
Under the project, the Lopez Group constructed 150 typhoon-resilient classrooms housed in 66 school buildings located in 30 cities and municipalities in 11 provinces. (Story/Phots by: Toni Nieva)