Addressing Infrastructure Issues in Philippine Public Schools: The Case of Sto. Tomas Senior High School

By Nikkie C. Malanom

Infrastructure in schools is a vital component of providing quality education to today’s students. Unfortunately, Sto. Tomas Senior High School is one of the many public schools in the Philippines that suffer from a lack of adequate infrastructure, both physical and academic. This problem significantly impacts the quality of education and the wellbeing of students and staff at the school.

One of the critical issues is the lack of a cemented pathway which causes significant problems for students and staff at Sto. Tomas Senior High School. During the rainy season, the path leading to the classrooms and other school facilities can easily turn into a muddy mess, making it difficult and hazardous for students and staff to navigate. This can lead to injuries, as students may lose their balance or fall onto the ground, resulting in accidents. Moreover, the lack of a school pool despite having swimming as part of the curriculum is a significant issue at Sto. Tomas Senior High School. Students are unable to engage in swimming activities, ultimately denying them the ultimate purpose of the subject- learning how to swim. Although it’s uncommon for public schools in the Philippines to have a swimming facility, having one would mean that there is improvement in carrying out the curriculum effectively.

Another issue is the need for an updated gymnasium and proper parking arrangement. The unavailability of cemented flooring poses a threat to the safety of the students who participate in indoor sports and other activities. Moreover, the unregulated parking arrangement leads to damage to the school’s fields, causing even further problems with muddy terrain.

In addition to the lack of funds for physical infrastructure, Sto. Tomas Senior High School also struggles with inadequate resources for academic infrastructure. Another recurring problem at schoolis thelackofproper libraries with shelves and studying areas, computer rooms with individual computer access, speech laboratories for HUMSS students and other laboratory equipment in physics, chemical and biology laboratories for STEM students. This ultimately affects the quality of education students receive and significantly restricts their potential to learn and excel in their respective fields.

It's worth noting that Sto. Tomas Senior High School is not the only school experiencing this issue in the country. The lack of funding for infrastructure is an ongoing issue that persists across countless schools in the Philippines, depriving many students and teachers of their vital resources.

Editorial Board

Nikkie C. Malanom Editor in Chief

Jackielyn C. Gracia Associate Editor

Raiza P. Hanapi Managing Editor

Arabella Palonpon News Editor

Maria Alexa Postrado Feature Editor

Kim Gerald Desepeda Sports Editor

Arlene A. Bondad

Rose Lyn M. Macapuno

Fherly C. Pernes

Annalyn D. Ramos

Sarah Jane V. Ema Jane L. Comia School Paper Advisers

Wilma A. Aguspina Cristy C. Reyes School Paper Consultants

Gigi C. Corpuz, EdD School Head

Possible solutions to this problem include increased government funding for infrastructure in schools, forming partnerships with private corporations that can aid in building modern infrastructure facilities, and actively promoting fundraising campaigns within the school community.Sto. TomasSeniorHigh School has implemented several programs and events to address and raise funds to aid the infrastructure problems, including the Graduation Ball this June2023.Whilesucheventscan helpraisevital funds for much-needed infrastructure, the government must recognize the fundamental importance of infrastructure investment in education as their financial support and efforts are crucial in achieving infrastructure solutions. Furthermore, the government should also establish standards for school infrastructure including the provision of basic amenities such as potable water, functioning toilets, and adequate lighting in classrooms. Regular inspections and repairs of existing school facilitiesshouldalsobeconductedtoensurethey are in good condition and safe for use.

Are you passionate about writing, storytelling, and making your voice heard? We have an exciting opportunity for you to become part of the EFICOM, ourschool'sofficialpublication's pool of talented writers!

To join or learn more about the EFICOM, please reach out to Ms. Arlene A. Bondad at the HUMSS Faculty Room. We eagerly await your participation and look forward to seeing your creativity shine!

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