By Danny Estacio
SAN NARCISO, Quezon, Philippines – The combined engineering forces of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP)- Southern Luzon Command (SOLCOM), and the Aviation Engineer Group of the United States Air Force conducted a groundbreaking ceremony for the construction of one unit, two-classroom school building at Villa Reyes Elementary School on April 1, in this town.
The Philippine Army-564th Engineer Construction Battalion, and the United States Indo-Pacific Command-356th Aviation Engineer Group of the United States Air Force are responsible for undertaking the project part of the Engineer Civil Action Program (ENCAP) and was attended by the contingents from the Armed Forces of the Philippines, led by the Battalion Commanders of the 564th Engineer Construction Battalion and the 85th Infantry Battalion, United States Counterparts, representatives from the local government unit (LGU) of San Narciso, and the local police.
The project reflects the enduring commitment, strengthened unity, and close cooperation between the Philippines and the United States, as both nations work side by side in advancing community development.
Exercise Balikatan stands as a powerful testament to the resilient and steadfast alliance between the two countries.
The construction of a 7-meter by 18-meter classroom building, complete with a comfort room, is scheduled to be completed by May 15, 2026.
Once completed, the additional classrooms are expected to benefit approximately 573 students for School Year 2026–2027. This initiative will provide a safer, more conducive, and adaptable learning environment while addressing the growing demand for classroom space.
With only 11 existing classrooms, the addition of two new ones will help ease congestion and overcrowding, thereby enhancing the quality of education and supporting a more effective teaching and learning process. Ultimately, this development will serve both present and future generations of students within the community.
The Humanitarian Civic Assistance conducted under Exercise Balikatan continues to enhance access to education and essential services for local communities, while strengthening community resilience and deepening bilateral ties.
The AFP and U.S. Forces emphasize that, beyond enhancing protective capabilities and combat mobility, joint activities such as ENCAP also promote meaningful community engagement through sustainable and people-centered development initiatives.
Army Lt. Gen. Cerilo C. Balaoro Jr., commander of the Southern Luzon Command, emphasized the value of collaborative efforts in advancing education and community development.
He said that initiatives under Exercise Balikatan not only enhance military interoperability but also deliver tangible and lasting benefits to local communities.
Balaoro expressed appreciation to partner units, local government stakeholders, and community members for their continued cooperation, noting that these projects reflect the shared commitment of the Philippines and the United States to building resilient, peaceful, and progressive communities.
