LAL-LO, Cagayan, Philippines – As part of Exercise Balikatan 25, Philippine and U.S. service members delivered a “Bundle of Joy” to Dagupan Elementary School, providing essential school supplies and technology to support teachers and students in their mission of education.
The donation included laptops, televisions, printers, and a variety of classroom materials to enhance the learning environment for students.
The event began with a Catholic Mass, followed by student dance performances that brought the community together in celebration. Chaplains from both the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the U.S. military delivered remarks, underscoring the importance of shared values and service.
“Balikatan is our annual celebration of our shared values and vision,” said U.S. Navy Lt. Steven Weathers, chaplain with the Combined Joint Civil-Military Operations Task Force. “One of those values is the power of teachers and how the classroom shapes young lives. The second is the strength that comes from faith communities in bringing hope and comfort.”
Weathers noted the donation not only supported classroom learning but also reflected a shared commitment to service, faith, and community partnership. “Teachers, priests, and pastors are all people of service,” he said. “You enrich our communities, and we are here from the United States to honor the gift of your presence in inspiring young people.”
The school leaders and faculty received the donation with enthusiasm and gratitude.
“I recognize this great blessing for our school and children, and we would like to extend our deepest gratitude to all of you who made this happen,” said Clydellene G. Duero, principal of Dagupan Elementary School. “We are incredibly thankful – rest assured, your Bundle of Joy will go a long way for this community. We deeply appreciate your commitment to making this possible.”
Partnership during Balikatan isn’t limited to military cooperation. It also shows up in shared acts of service – in classrooms, places of worship, and community spaces – where both nations come together to support and strengthen the next generation of learners.
Dagupan Elementary School serves 179 students and employs nine teachers. All will benefit from the donated supplies, enriching classroom learning and empowering both students and teachers alike.
Balikatan is a longstanding annual exercise between the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the U.S. military that strengthens the alliance, improves combined capabilities, and demonstrates a shared commitment to regional security and stability.
Date Taken: | 04.10.2025 |
Date Posted: | 04.11.2025 20:13 |
Story ID: | 495108 |
Location: | PH |
Web Views: | 112 |
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