The funds will build classroom buildings across 40 public schools to address the province’s shortage of 608 classrooms, part of a larger 8,257 shortfall in Region 12.
New classrooms will be constructed in Koronadal City, Polomolok, Tampakan, and Tupi, with each building containing two rooms, accommodating up to 100 students. Eight buildings are already complete, with the first at Tupi Central Elementary now housing over 40 Grade 3 students. The remaining classrooms are expected to open within the school year.
The new facilities are designed with accessibility in mind, featuring wheelchair ramps and lavatory facilities between the classrooms. Additionally, each room will be equipped with ceiling fans and modern concave blackboards to enhance the learning environment.
Strengthening support for education, local communities
“We at Belle, and the entire SM Group, firmly believe that education is key to lifting marginalized families out of poverty,” said Belle president and CEO Armin Antonio Santos.
“Although South Cotabato is geographically distant from our main communities in Metro Manila and Luzon, the need for classrooms and educational infrastructure in South Central Mindanao, particularly in areas inhabited by the Blaan and T’boli indigenous communities, is pressing,” he said.
Addressing the education gap
Belle is the holding company for the group’s gaming interests, which includes the City of Dreams Manila integrated resort, operated by Melco Resorts Philippines.
“Our collaboration with the Melco Foundation to fund these 80 new classrooms—capable of accommodating up to 4,000 students—is a vital step towards addressing this gap. We believe these new facilities will greatly support the educational journey of students and contribute to the overall betterment of their families and communities,” Santos said.”
