Today marked an inspiring milestone with the official turnover of the Cultural Heritage Learning Center (CHLC) to Landan National High School (LNHS). This first-of-its-kind initiative in the Philippines was made possible through the generosity of AY Foundation, Inc. and Dole Philippines, Inc., in collaboration with the 549th Engineer ‘Kapayapaan’ Battalion of the 54th Engineer Brigade, the 5th SF Battalion, the 38th Infantry Battalion of the 1st Mechanized Infantry Brigade, and LGU Polomolok, and was implemented through Mahintana Foundation’s Adopt-A-School Program.
The event was graced by esteemed guests, including Mr. John Delgado, RCBC Region Head representing AY Foundation, Inc.; Hon. Bernie D. Palencia, Polomolok Municipal Mayor; Hon. Rebecca Diale, Landan Barangay Chairperson; Fulong Jerome Ante, Polomolok IPMR; Mr. Mazasumi Nishikage, Senior Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of Dole Philippines, Inc.; Mr. Yohei Kojikawa, Vice President and Chief Strategy Officer of Dole Philippines, Inc.; Ms. Leamor Bañaga, Senior Manager of Corporate Affairs at Dole Philippines, Inc.; Ms. Liza Duropan-Hora, Executive Director of Mahintana Foundation, Inc.; Mr. Martiniano Maagdolot, President of Mahintana Foundation, Inc.; LTC Noel Salvajan, Commander of the 549 Engineer Battalion PA; CPT Norjamin Dimapalao, Commanding Officer, Bravo Company, 549th Engineer Battalion PA; BGEN Darwin Hernandez, Commander of the 54th Engineer Brigade PA; 1LT Michael Jordan (SC) PA, Commanding Officer of the 38th Infantry Battalion of the 1st Mechanized Brigade PA; BGEN Andre Santos, Commander of the 1st Mechanized Brigade PA; PCOL Nicomedes Olivar, City Director of PNP, GSCPO; Mr. Leonardo M. Balala, CESO IV, DepEd School Division Superintendent; Mr. Nathaniel Bangoc, Education Program Supervisor of DepEd XII; Mr. Ferdinand Esteban, Principal of LNHS; as well as IP elders, LNHS teachers, and students.
The program included the unveiling of a commemorative marker, the formal turnover of the “Key of Responsibility,” and a ceremonial signing of the Deed of Donation. Additionally, 50 armchairs were provided through Dolefil’s Chairs-for-Trees Program, along with a 65-inch smart TV from LGU Polomolok.
This milestone is a testament of Mahintana’s commitment to community empowerment and cultural preservation, establishing a space for students and community members to celebrate and honor the cultural heritage of Indigenous Peoples. The CHLC will serve as a vital resource, helping preserve and pass down the values, traditions, and stories of the IP community to future generations.
