After a 1-year break for an overseas assignment I was able to visit Cancabalong and Obo this week to check in with the teaching staff and pupils. The super warm welcome lifted my soul with loads of energy and positivity in the classrooms. We are 6 weeks into block 1 of the new three term school calendar format for SY 2026-2027 and the pupils are settling in well, especially the excited little ones in kindergarten.
Improvements at Cancabalong Elementary School
I was delighted to see the benefits realised from our 2025 projects which have delivered real impact on the ground for the school. The Project A Extended Covered Court now means pupils are sheltered from the hot sun and especially the rain. It is rainy season now here in the Philippines and we had 2 heavy rain showers while I was at the school but the pupils were still able to have their snack break outside unaffected by the inclement weather.
The School Learning Resource Center (SLRC) has really taken shape now and provides a breakout space for class focus sessions, reading / playtime, and for school admin / hosting visitors. This is such an important space for supporting school activities and I was very happy to see that we received the Certificate of Functionality from Dep Ed Region VII in the March 2026 assessment by the Learning Resource Management System Office. This recognition also demonstrates that our Donor’s Funds are being well spent on essential infrastructure to upgrade to Dep Ed standards.
Development Plans for Cancabalong Elementary School
Our priority project for 2026-2027 is the construction of a new classroom for Grade IV and the relocation of the existing kitchen area. As the school continues to develop with a full complement of teachers per grade, space is at a premium and we desperately need to create the right facilities for teachers to do their job and the right environment for pupils to learn effectively. Based on costings for material and labour we estimate this project will be approximately ₱112,000. Look out for more updates coming soon on our fundraising activities and how you can help!
Together we can make a difference…
Mike Hickey – Project Coordinator, Project Ripple
Project Ripple 