On October 6, 2022, the people of Barangay Lun Padidu in Malapatan, Sarangani Province were jolted awake by the sound of sirens from speeding fire trucks.

The Bureau of Fire Protection had reported a raging fire at Lun Padidu Central Elementary School, and eleven classrooms were quickly consumed, along with all the furniture, TVs, chairs, tables, and reading materials.

In the face of this disaster, the community sprang into action, grabbing pails to put out the fire with water, showing the true spirit of Bayanihan. But despite their efforts, the damage was extensive, and the school’s future hung in the balance.

Thankfully, the Sarangani Division and the local government of Malapatan immediately took swift action to help the affected school, recognizing the importance of education for their community’s children. 

Various organizations and individuals stepped in to fill the gaps left by the fire, providing support to ensure that learning would not be disrupted.

Despite the challenges, the focus remained on continuing students’ education. As clearing operations continued, affected classes moved to the Lun Padidu National High School, but with a lack of classrooms, double-shifting became necessary, making it difficult for the students.

The School Governance and Operation Division, particularly the School Facilities Section, quickly stepped up to construct temporary learning spaces. 

The Conrado and Ladislawa Alcantara Foundation, Inc., also built a temporary learning space to help ensure that students could continue their studies.

Amidst the devastation, the Save the Children Foundation’s Catch Up Clubs program helped students recover from learning gaps caused by the disruption, providing hope for a brighter future.

This disaster showed the community’s resilience and the importance of coming together in times of crisis, highlighting the Bayanihan spirit that is at the heart of Filipino culture.