THREE public high schools in Iloilo province received a total of 21 tent classrooms just a week after the opening of School Year 2025–2026, to address urgent classroom shortages and ensure learning continuity.

Governor Arthur ‘Toto’ Defensor Jr. led the ceremonial turnover of the tent classrooms, a project of the Iloilo Provincial School Board, aimed at providing temporary learning spaces for schools affected by fire or inadequate infrastructure.

Alimodian National Comprehensive High School received the largest allocation with 10 tents after losing 19 classrooms in a fire on June 2.

Ardemil National High School in Ajuy received nine tents to address its chronic classroom shortage, while Leonora Salapantan National High School Extension in San Miguel received two tents to support students in remote barangays with limited school facilities.

PSB Secretary Maria Freda Fajardo said the initiative was inspired by the emergency classroom solutions used by the Philippine Red Cross and UNICEF. The provincial government adapted this approach to meet Iloilo’s immediate educational needs.

The tents were customized by the Provincial Engineer’s Office and installed by the General Services Office. Designed to meet standard classroom requirements, they ensure safety and comfort for both students and teachers.

Fajardo emphasized that while temporary, the tent classrooms are a critical stopgap measure to maintain access to quality education amid unexpected disruptions.