A 38-year-old teacher at Savidug Elementary School in Sabtang, Batanes, was seen climbing the flagpole during a flag-raising ceremony.
The teacher is identified as Carol Figuero-Dela Cruz. She teaches a multi-grade class, including Grade 4 and Grade 5 students.
The video of Figuero-Dela Cruz's climb has garnered over 11.1 million views and thousands of shares in just a day.
The video showcases her impressive agility as she ascends the pole to reattach the flag's rope.
Figuero-Dela Cruz is the only staff member capable of climbing the pole due to the absence of male employees at the school.
"Kasi wala namang ibang pwedeng gagawa, dahil puro kami babae dito. Wala kaming lalakeng empleyado, tapos ako lang yung nakaka-akyat sa kanila; tsaka delikado rin kung yung patumba tumbang pole, dahil medyo malakas yung hangin dito kung minsan," Figuero-Dela Cruz said.
Arlene Castillo, the school principal, supported Figuero-Dela Cruz's decision, noting that she had climbed coconut trees in the past and has a history of performing such tasks.
"Second round na yan... kampante naman ako dahil alam kong kaya niya, kasi nakita ko na rin ýan minsan na umakyat sa puno ng niyog hindi ko lang na-video-han," Castillo said.
"Grade 3 pa lang ako, marunong na akong umakyat sa puno ng niyog, kasi laking hirap naman. Magbubukid naman kasi ako mula nung bata pa lang ako, kaya pagpumupunta kami sa bukid, syempre kapag nauuhaw na, yun inaakyat na lang yung niyog para makakuha ng inumin," Figuero-Dela Cruz added.
Figuero-Dela Cruz, advised students not to attempt similar risky actions.
Despite the dangerous climb, her dedication to her students, the school, and the flag became evident.
