March 23, 2023 — The turnover ceremony of Smart LED TVs was made possible through Latter-Day Saint (LDS) Charities who showcased their efforts in making a significant difference in the lives of learners in the city. The City Government led by City Mayor Francis Anthony S. Garcia, Vice-Mayor Vianca Lita V. Gozon, and members of Sangguniang Panlungsod took part in this event, demonstrating their commitment to making a positive impact to the city’s residents, especially the learners.

In coordination with the City Education and Excellence Development Office (CEEDO) headed by Ms. Tarra Ann Pagdanganan and other concerned departments including MISO, GSO, and CEO, a total of ninety-two (92) Smart LED TVs will be given to various schools in the city to help them meet the demand of online learning, thus empowering the next generation by providing them with access to technology.

To witness and express their support were Sangguniang Panlungsod members Victor Baluyot Jr.; Ma. Liza Vasquez; Pedro Yuzon, Jr.; Christian Laurence Manalaysay; Ricardo Magpantay; and Hubert Pizarro. Others present were LDS Brother and Sister Joel Licop; Sister Myrna Ariola; Brother Romano Baul; Kabataan Kontra Droga at Terorismo (KKDAT) National Spokesperson Mr. Franz Liam Arabia; DepEd officials headed by Assistant Schools Division Superintendent (ASDS) Dr. Ilynne Samonte; School Principals under the Schools Division Office (SDO) – Balanga, and city department heads.

BNHS – JHS Principal Ms. Alma Poblete welcomed the attendees. She expressed gratitude to LDS and the City Government of Balanga because of their initiatives in bridging the digital gap and providing students with the tools they need to succeed.

In his inspirational message, LDS President Ramir Figuracion highlighted the importance of education in helping children to reach the full potential. He added that these Smart LED TVs will go along the way in returning this blessing to the Lord through the guidance of teachers.

LDS Brother Jairus Perez also stated everyone’s responsibility to care for one another. He also mentioned that they are one with the government to ease their burden. He also hopes to have further collaborations with the city of Balanga.

At the same time, LDS Elder Lenard Huff and Sister Cecil Huff, noticed the care by the Local Government of Balanga for education evident in their provisions for BLH’s citing their past experiences as teachers. They hope that this donation would make lives better by educating people and giving them opportunities.

Meanwhile, City Mayor Francis Anthony S. Garcia mentioned the previous donations that aided the city’s barangay learning hubs, their educational practices, and residents during the pandemic. The donations include tri-wheelchairs, relief goods, hygiene kits, and massage therapy kits. They have also been actively supporting schools and students by providing LED Smart TVs, laptops, printers, and other materials, which encourage interactive learning strategies and help students visualize what lies beyond the classroom. On behalf of Gov. Joet Garcia and Congressman Albert Garcia, he further expressed his gratitude to LDS and stated that LDS gives the city an inspiration to make this world a better place.

The Mayor’s message was followed by DepEd ASDS Dr. Ilynne Samonte’s remarks that interconnected developments in the province have made education felt by students and teachers. She noted that the Bataan-Cavite Interlink Bridge Project will create more opportunities for students and teachers, allowing them to access libraries, research institutions, and specialized training programs. She added that the existing difficulties of learners and the limitations they face can now be reduced and touched upon through this donation.