Mayor Gasataya oversees distribution of free school supplies to Bacolod students

Elementary students in Bacolod City are now receiving free school supplies, beginning with schools in District 1, as part of the city government’s ongoing commitment to education. The distribution commenced today, September 17, 2025.

The initial distribution includes:
– Andres Bonifacio Elementary School I – 1,206 pupils
– Andres Bonifacio Elementary School II – 1,543 pupils
– Banago Elementary School I – 1,789 pupils
– Banago Elementary School II – 1,016 pupils
– Mandalagan Elementary School – 1,366 pupils
– Abkasa Elementary School – 652 pupils

Each student will receive a school kit containing 10 notebooks, 4 rolls of writing pad paper, 1 box of black ballpens, 2 red ballpens, 2 #2 pencils, and 1 plastic envelope with a handle and zipper.

Mayor Greg Gasataya emphasized the program’s role in supporting families and encouraging young students: “Our commitment by next school year, we will be able to release the supplies before classes start.”

The distribution program, funded with ₱32 million, experienced delays due to the implementation of Republic Act No. 12009, also known as the New Government Procurement Act.

Councilor Al Victor Espino, chairperson of the Committee on Education, addressed the delays and assured improvements for future distributions: “I take full responsibility on the delay of the distribution of the school supplies. The reason behind are the changes in procurement law 9184 and the current procurement law. We will make sure that the school supplies are delivered on time next school year.”

The distribution was met with enthusiasm from the students, who chanted “Mayor Greg, we love you!” and expressed their gratitude with phrases like “Thank you Mayor Greg, we love you.”

Mayor Gasataya also highlighted the initiative as part of a larger vision for inclusive education: “Our request is for you to really study well. The city will support you as much as we can.”* (Bacolod City Communications Office text & photos)