The Municipality of Alegria has swiftly approved emergency measures to address critical ground instability at Valencia Elementary School. This urgent action follows a technical assessment by MGB 7 geologists and reinforces the municipality’s commitment to safeguarding students and faculty.

Legislative Action for Safety

In a decisive move on March 16, 2026, the 17th Sangguniang Bayan of Alegria passed Resolution No. 088-2026-17. The measure provides the formal legislative backbone for the LGU to coordinate with the Department of Education (DepEd) and the Mines and Geosciences Bureau (MGB) 7 to implement structural safeguards on the campus.

The resolution, moved by Hon. Lenie L. Piñez and attested by Vice Mayor Verna V. Magallon, was spurred by urgent concerns from the school’s Parent-Teacher Association (PTA) regarding the physical integrity of the school grounds.

The “Red Flag” Survey

The legislative action follows a Geohazard Identification Survey (GIS) conducted by MGB 7 on February 25, 2026. Technical experts were deployed to the school in Purok 2, Matinabangon, Barangay Valencia, following a report from the Local Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (LDRRMO) of visible ground cracks.

MGB 7’s assessment confirmed areas of “high landslide susceptibility” and ground subsidence, warning that seismic activity or heavy rainfall could worsen the current conditions.

“Our assessment has shown that the school is at significant risk. Protecting the students and staff must be a top priority, and we are working closely with local officials to ensure the necessary safety measures are put in place immediately,” said Al Emil G. Berador, OIC Regional Director of MGB 7.

“These scientific findings are essential in assessing potential risks,” the resolution stated. “Our priority is to protect the welfare of our students, teachers, and staff through responsible, coordinated action.”

A Unified Response

The survey was a collaborative effort involving school leadership, led by Principal Ronald L. Pileo, and local disaster responders. By formally adopting the PTA’s call for help (Resolution No. 2026-01), the LGU Alegria has signaled that disaster preparedness is a priority.

The MGB-7 Regional Office remains committed to providing technical expertise as the LGU begins implementing safety measures and explores options for rehabilitation of the school site. (Heart Rizarri/IO)