LDS-Christians donate 1,082 school chairs and 55 televisions to Ifugao schools

Public schools in the Municipality of Mayoyao took a significant step toward modernizing their classrooms on Monday, March 16, 2026, as the Department of Education (DepEd) Mayoyao District received 1,082 chairs and 55 classroom televisions from The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

The donation aims to improve the learning environment for both teachers and students across the municipality, which faces geographic challenges that can hinder access to educational resources.

The turnover ceremony, attended by education leaders, local government officials, and Church representatives, reflected a shared commitment to supporting schools and enhancing opportunities for students. Isabel M. Chug-e, Public Schools District Supervisor for Mayoyao, expressed deep appreciation for the contribution, noting that the new equipment would provide “additional tools that support interactive learning and create more comfortable classrooms.”

The initiative was coordinated by former Municipal Local Government Operations Officer Linda H. Marcaida, a member of the Church, and was first discussed during the Local School Board meeting in August 2025. Funding for the chairs and televisions was secured through the Church’s humanitarian programs, following consultations with school leaders and Church missionaries Elder and Sister Plummer.

“These chairs and Smart TVs are not just pieces of equipment,” said Elder Manrico Marcaida during the ceremony. “They are tools for learning, bridges to knowledge, and instruments that can help improve teaching and learning in your classrooms—especially in this beautiful but geographically challenging municipality of Mayoyao.”

He emphasized that the selection of Mayoyao was based on genuine need rather than personal connections, highlighting the district’s desire to provide students and teachers with equitable access to modern learning tools.

Also present at the event was Elder Willy Estrada, Welfare and Self-Reliance Manager of the Philippines–Santiago North Stake, who noted the importance of understanding the purpose behind acts of service.

Municipal Vice Mayor Rudy N. Chilagan, representing Mayor Jimmy B. Padchanan Jr., thanked the donors for their generosity, calling the initiative a valuable contribution to the municipality’s ongoing efforts to improve educational quality.

The donation exemplifies the impact of partnerships between humanitarian organizations, local government units, and the education sector. By supporting teachers and students, Mayoyao hopes to ensure that its youth have access to the resources needed to thrive despite the area’s geographic obstacles.