Education leaders, local officials, school heads, and community stakeholders gathered at the Gregorio Cordero Memorial Sports Complex for the 2026 Municipal Education Summit, centered on Project PUNLA: Pototanon in Unison for Numeracy and Literacy Attainment under the theme “Planting Seeds of Inspiration in Education.”
The summit marked a milestone as the Sangguniang Bayan passed an ordinance institutionalizing full policy and budget support for Project PUNLA, ensuring sustained implementation in local schools.
In her welcome remarks, Dr. Tesa Joy B. Pachica, Principal-in-Charge of Pototan I Schools District, stressed that quality education requires strong partnerships beyond the classroom.
Mayor Rafael Enrique “Adi” Lazaro delivered the State of Education Address, while Councilor Nonito Q. Pasuelo Jr. presented Project PUNLA milestones and literacy assessment results. Messages of support came from Board Member Jason R. Gonzales and Chief Education Supervisor Dr. Nestor Paul M. Pingil.
Provincial Administrator Dr. Raul N. Banias praised Pototan’s initiative, noting its success in improving learning outcomes even before adopting provincial programs. He confirmed Pototan’s participation in Iloilo’s BES BASA / Proof of Concept Localization program, expanding efforts to combat learning poverty.
“Project PUNLA is our shared promise: to plant seeds of hope today and harvest a brighter future tomorrow,” he said.
Workshops led by Synergia Foundation’s Edwin N. Nacionales and Dr. Lucia P. Lamanero enriched the summit. The event concluded with the unveiling of the Project PUNLA logo, pledge of commitment, symbolic signing of support, partner recognition, and closing remarks from Dr. Evelyn L. Reconquista.
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