On November 7, 2024, Angeles City Mayor Carmelo ‘Pogi’ Lazatin Jr. launched a significant initiative aimed at supporting public school students. The distribution of free shoes, socks, t-shirts, bags, and school supplies began at Air Force City Elementary School. This program is part of the mayor’s ongoing commitment to providing essential resources to students and ensuring that education remains accessible to all Angelenos.
Accompanied by Vice Mayor Vicky Vega-Cabigting, several city councilors, and SK President Richard Gaza Jr., Mayor Lazatin personally oversaw the event. The public school students received the school supplies with great enthusiasm. Among those who participated in the event were City Councilors Atty. Arvin Suller, Jesus Sangil, Crisanto Cortez, Alexander Indiongco, Edu Pamintuan, Marino Bañola, Dan Lacson, JC Aguas, and Raco Del Rosario. Their presence signified the local government’s collective effort to improve educational outcomes.
The distribution of these vital items will continue across Angeles City’s 56 public schools. Mayor Lazatin has committed to personally ensuring that each of the 93,000 pairs of shoes, t-shirts, bags, and essential school supplies reach the students in a well-organized manner. The scheduled deliveries are expected to cover all public schools in the city, ensuring that no student is left without necessary resources for the school year.
The initiative is made possible with the help of various city departments, including the Angeles City Economic Development and Investment Promotions Office, headed by Irish Bonus-Llego, and the City Nutrition Office. These offices have been instrumental in assisting with the logistics and coordination of the event. The presence of Chief Adviser IC Calaguas and Executive Assistant IV Reina Manuel further ensured the smooth execution of the program.
The distribution event reflects one of the key promises made by Mayor Lazatin during his inauguration. His vision for quality education is focused on inclusivity, ensuring that no child in Angeles City is left behind due to financial limitations. By providing free school supplies and uniforms, Mayor Lazatin is addressing the needs of public school students and supporting their academic journey.
Mayor Lazatin reiterated that his administration is committed to making education more accessible and equitable for all Angelenos. “No Angeleño youth will be left behind in terms of education,” he stated. This initiative is part of a broader plan to improve the lives of residents and ensure that the city’s youth have every opportunity to succeed academically.
The mayor’s education-focused efforts are expected to have a lasting impact on public school students, fostering a more inclusive and supportive learning environment. With continued dedication, Mayor Lazatin hopes to strengthen the educational system in Angeles City and set a model for other cities to follow in promoting educational equity and opportunity.
Source: Angeles City Information Office
