Nestled on the mountain ranges of Calinog town in Iloilo Province is Binolusan Pequeño National High School, over 26 kilometers away from the town proper.

Most of the students here are members of Panay Bukidnon, an indigenous people’s (IP) group.

Teacher Argee Caro is a witness to how 272 learners at Binolusan Pequeño have learning difficulty in Mathematics, 46 are non-readers.

Habitual absences of students have resulted in a two-percent drop-out rate, according to Teacher Argee.

So, Teacher Argee initiated the “Balay Sapopo (A Home in School)” project.

Through the “Balay Sapopo” project, school officials, personnel of the Local Government Unit (LGU), law enforcement groups, along with the community converted three former quarters for teachers into a so-called boarding house for 12 students who are from far-flung areas to ensure they would not be absent from classes.

The 12 beneficiaries at “Balay Sapopo” have achieved perfect class attendance.

Class performance improved as demonstrated by their Grade Point Average (GPA) that went up from 75-78 to 82-84.

The Department of Education VI has recognized the project on First Place of the School Head Academy Reentry Action Plan.

“The moment we see our learners learn, that they were able to read dahil sa ating tulong, the moment we see our learners succeed in life, that is the price ng ating sakripisyo bilang mga guro,” Teacher Argee said.