House panel approves bill renaming Eastern Samar high school

THE House committee on basic education and culture has approved a bill seeking to rename the Samar National Pilot Opportunity School of Agriculture in the Municipality of San Policarpo, Eastern Samar, as the San Policarpo National High School of Agriculture.

The measure, House Bill No. 9565, was authored by Eastern Samar Lone District Rep. Christopher Sheen Gonzales, with 4Ps Party-list Rep. Marcelino Libanan as co-author.

"The proposed renaming reflects the school's growth and evolution over the years," Gonzales said.

According to Gonzales, the school now offers a comprehensive secondary education program that fully incorporates the Department of Education's K to 12 curriculum, replacing the opportunity and short-term courses that it previously provided.

"The new name more accurately represents the school's present identity and the quality of education that it now delivers to its students," he said.

Gonzales noted that the renaming is also expected to become a source of pride for the people of San Policarpo by recognizing the school's development and its continuing commitment to educational excellence.

He added that the measure recognizes the collective efforts of stakeholders, particularly the local government unit, which has played a vital role as a partner in advancing education in the municipality.

"This renaming is the culmination of the sustained support and collaboration among our educators, local officials, parents, and the community. Together, we continue to ensure that quality education remains accessible and inclusive for every learner," Gonzales said.

"By strengthening the identity of this institution, we also reaffirm our commitment to empowering future generations through quality education," he added.

Under the bill, only the name of the school will be changed. All assets, personnel, records, rights, and existing positions will be retained and transferred to the San Policarpo National High School of Agriculture upon the measure's enactment.