Abby Binay asks Sara Duterte to resolve issues in 3 public schools

FILE PHOTO: Makati Mayor Abby Binay on Thursday calls on Vice President and Education Secretary Sara Duterte to address the management issue in three public schools that are now under Taguig City’s jurisdiction. PHOTO: Official Facebook page of Abby Binay

MANILA, Philippines — Makati Mayor Abby Binay on Thursday called on Vice President and Education Secretary Sara Duterte to address the management issue in three public schools that are now under Taguig City’s jurisdiction.

She urged action from Duterte after the Makati City government appealed for the retention of management and administration of the Makati Science High School in Cembo under the Schools Division Office-Makati City (DepEd Makati), as well as integration of Fort Bonifacio Elementary and Fort Bonifacio High School in West Rembo with the University of Makati (UMak).

“A favorable resolution from the Vice President will allow Makati to move forward with our plans for enhanced programs and services in the said schools,” Binay said in a statement.

“We have already explained at length the rationale supporting our stand to exclude them from the administrative transition, and we believe it is for the best interest of the students,” she added.

READ: Taguig-Makati land row flares up over schools

Binay said the city government has already temporarily suspended its initiatives – such as the proposed increase in the monthly stipend for scholars to P3,000 – for Makati Science High School.

She also underscored the ongoing enhancements in public school facilities, including the installation of smart classrooms with interactive whiteboards and unlimited internet connection.

“We have both the political will and the resources to continue providing the essential needs of our students, including complete school gear, school supplies, nutritious snacks, and modern learning tools and facilities, among others,” Binay pointed out.

Citing a letter to Duterte dated August 29, 2023, Binay emphasized the importance of the city having its own science high school.

“Having our own Science High School is indispensable to providing students with excellent education that will empower them to achieve their dreams and take the lead in their respective fields. It bears noting that Taguig City already has its own Science High School which caters to the needs of its constituents,” she wrote.

According to Binay, a school’s legacy, dedication, and historical significance may also transcend geographical boundaries, citing the Valeriano Estrella Fugoso Memorial High School in Barangay Parang, Marikina as an example which was named in honor of the 13th Mayor of the City of Manila and is currently under the administration and management of the City of Manila.

Meanwhile, in another letter dated August 31, 2023, Binay expressed the city’s intention to integrate the Fort Bonifacio Elementary School and Fort Bonifacio High School with the city-run UMak, stressing the university’s readiness to pursue the integration of the two schools as its Teacher Education Laboratory School.

“We are confident that having Fort Bonifacio High School and Fort Bonifacio Elementary School operated and managed as a Laboratory School by the University of Makati is undoubtedly feasible,” the mayor asserted.

According to the local chief executive, this integration would allow DepEd to allot their resources intended for such schools to other projects.

“The UMak Management is ready to adopt these two schools under our care as we expand and create a full-range basic education laboratory school,” Binay said, adding that working groups have already been formed and are on standby to ensure uninterrupted services to students.

Binay also pointed out that UMak can absorb teachers with available positions and has qualified faculty for the Teacher Education Laboratory School.

She emphasized how Makati’s public schools excel nationally and internationally, with achievements in both the Programme for International Student Assessment and Test of Fundamental Academic Skills.

DepEd: Legal team studying the matter

DepEd spokesperson Michael Poa said their legal office is already reviewing the issue.

“DepEd legal has been tasked to study the matter, along with the position papers of the parties concerned,” Poa told reporters through Viber.

“We are waiting for the Legal Strand’s recommendation,” he added.

READ: Taguig: Feud with Makati over 14 public schools ends, thanks to DepEd’s transition panel

Makati and Taguig were embroiled in a territorial dispute involving several barangays, particularly Cembo, Comembo, East Rembo, Pembo, Pitogo, Post Proper Northside, Post Proper Southside, Rizal, South Cembo and West Rembo – collectively known as Embo Barangays.

But the Supreme Court declared the Embo barangays and Fort Bonifacio, as well as the Philippine Army headquarters, Navy installation, Marines’ headquarters, Consular area, JUSMAG area, Heritage Park, Libingan ng mga Bayani, AFP Officers Village, and six other adjacent villages as under the jurisdiction of Taguig based on historical, documentary, and testimonial evidence.