Adopt-A-School: Rotary Club of Metro East Taytay Brings Hope Through Education

On August 26, 2025, the Rotary Club of Metro East Taytay (RCMET) officially turned over its Canopy for Learners and Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) Project to San Juan Elementary School Annex, Taytay, Rizal. This milestone project, held under Rotary’s Adopt-A-School Program, marked a celebration of partnership, service, and a shared commitment to improving education.

The event was the Inauguration and Turnover Ceremony of two key facilities:

1. A Canopy for Learners that provides a safe, weatherproof communal area; and 

2. A refurbished WASH facility promoting health, sanitation, and hygiene among students.

Additionally, the project delivered three ceiling fans, lighting with bulbs, and electrical outlets, ensuring the new space is cooler, well-ventilated, and functional even after school hours.

The initiative was led by RCMET President Donato “Don” G. Santiago, supported by the dedicated members of the club. The Service Project Chair was PP Ariel Espino, with Rtn. Rolando Panlaqui as Project Owner and Rtn. Milagros Javier as Project Coordinator. On the school’s side, Principal Dr. Melchor T. Tagudando, teachers, students, and the School Parent-Teacher Association (SPTA) actively participated. The event also showcased the strong collaboration between Rotary and the Department of Education (DepEd).

The project was completed and inaugurated at San Juan Elementary School Annex, Brgy. San Juan, Taytay, Rizal. The turnover took place on August 26, 2025, following a month-long preparation that included two ocular surveys (August 1 and August 10) and construction/refurbishment works from August 10 to 25.

The project addressed pressing needs of the school community. Previously, students had to study under trees with only temporary trapal for cover, and their washing facility was old and unsafe. The lack of shelter and proper sanitation negatively affected learning, comfort, and health. By building the canopy, refurbishing the WASH station, and adding ventilation, lighting, and power outlets, RCMET provided learners with a safer, more conducive environment.

The initiative also aligned with Rotary’s Seven Areas of Focus, particularly, Basic Education and Literacy, Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene, as well as Community Development

More than infrastructure, this project symbolizes hope and opportunity. The Rotary markers and signages installed at the site serve as a public reminder of accountability, transparency, and service. With over 1,437 students and 28 teachers benefiting daily, the project demonstrates a holistic, multi- impact approach that can be replicated in other schools across Taytay and beyond.

Truly, this initiative reflects Rotary’s mission to “Unite for Good”—showing that when communities and Rotary work hand in hand, lasting change is possible.