The local government of Odiongan has begun distributing school supplies to more than 6,200 public elementary school students in Odiongan, Romblon on Monday.
In an interview with PIA Romblon, Odiongan Mayor Trina Firmalo-Fabic stated that the program aims to alleviate the financial burden on parents during the school year and encourage children to pursue their education.
“We know that life is very difficult right now, and the cost of goods is high. We want to help parents, especially those with 2-3 children in elementary school. This is a significant help because they no longer need to spend on school supplies,” said the mayor.
“There is no reason to say that they can’t afford school supplies and can’t attend school. This ensures that 100% of our children will enroll,” the mayor added.
The current number of students is based on data provided by the Department of Education, but the local government has prepared up to 6,500 sets of school supplies as a buffer in case of additional enrollees this year.
Each set of school supplies includes notebooks, paper, pens, pencils, glue, and other necessary school items, depending on the grade level of the students.
Last year, the Sangguniang Bayan of Odiongan approved funding for this program, enabling the local government to implement it promptly.
