World Vision Turns Over Handwashing Facilities in Davao 

DAVAO CITY, Philippines – More than 2,800 learners in Davao City now have improved access to safe and accessible handwashing facilities following the turnover of two handwashing facilities, each equipped with 20 faucets, to Doña Soledad Dolor Elementary School and Talomo Central Elementary School. 

The initiative forms part of World Vision Philippines’ commitment to strengthening Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) programs in schools and ensuring that children have access to safe, healthy learning environments. 

The newly installed facilities will serve approximately 1,000 pupils at Doña Soledad Dolor Elementary School and 1,876 pupils at Talomo Central Elementary School, helping promote proper hygiene practices among learners and reducing their vulnerability to preventable diseases. 

The project is part of World Vision Philippines’ Bawat Batang Pinoy Malusog (BBPM) program, with support from various donors and sponsors who share a commitment to improving children’s well-being through clean water, sanitation, nutrition, and health interventions. These collaborative efforts, including support generated through initiatives such as the Tatler Ball 2025, continue to provide life-changing assistance to vulnerable and disaster-affected communities across the country. 

During the turnover ceremony, stakeholders from the education sector, local government, parents, and learners expressed their gratitude and highlighted the importance of partnerships in promoting children’s health and well-being. 

Representing Hon. Atty. Rene Alexis P. Villarente, Punong Barangay of Talomo, Kristine Veneracion thanked World Vision and its partners for making the project possible. 

“We would like to thank World Vision for making this project possible. We also extend our appreciation to the school personnel and all those who worked hard to bring this project to the school.” she said. 

She added that the facility will greatly benefit learners and support the promotion of proper hygiene and health practices within the school community. 

Representing Public Schools Division Supervisor Marilyn L. Marcelo, Mr. Fernando D. Dimayuga II, Assistant to the Principal, emphasized that the facility represents an investment in children’s future. 

“This facility is more than just a structure. It is an investment in the health, safety, and well-being of our learners and the entire school community,” Dimayuga said. “May this facility serve as a constant reminder of the importance of proper hygiene and our shared responsibility in maintaining a clean, safe, and healthy environment.” 

He also acknowledged World Vision and other stakeholders for their unwavering support in creating schools where every child can learn, grow, and thrive. 

Meanwhile, Dr. Sarah D. Gerona, Division WINS (Wash in Schools) Focal Person, noted that the project will significantly strengthen the implementation of the Department of Education’s WINS Program. 

“A functional and accessible handwashing facility encourages proper hygiene practices and helps ensure the health and safety of our children,” Gerona said. “We sincerely thank World Vision for donating this project. It will greatly benefit not only the learners but also the entire community.” 

Parents also welcomed the initiative. Cherry Mae Donayre, Vice President of the Student-Parent Teacher Association (SPTA), expressed appreciation on behalf of families. 

“Your generosity and commitment to the health and well-being of our learners will leave a lasting impact on our school community,” she said. 

For the learners themselves, the new facilities provide a convenient way to practice handwashing throughout the school day. 

Marish Althea, a Grade 6 pupil, shared that the handwashing area will help students keep their hands clean, especially before and after school activities. 

“Madumi man o hindi kailangan pa rin natin maghugas para manatiling malinis,” she said. 

Another Grade 6 learner, Daniel, thanked everyone who contributed to the project. 

“I would like to sincerely thank all the people who made this project possible. Your kindness and generosity have greatly helped our school and all learners. Thank you very much for this wonderful gift,” he said. 

In a message delivered during the event, Public Schools Division Supervisor Marilyn L. Marcelo underscored the value of collaboration in supporting children’s development. 

“It takes a village to educate a child. It may sound cliché, but it is true. Partnership is important in honing our learners, especially in promoting their health and nutrition,” Marcelo said. She also encouraged the school community to maximize and maintain the facilities to ensure their long-term benefits. 

Following the turnover, World Vision Philippines will continue its support through WASH awareness training sessions for schoolchildren, aimed at increasing knowledge and encouraging positive behaviors related to proper water handling, sanitation, and hygiene. 

“Access to safe water, sanitation, and hygiene is not only a public health concern, it is fundamental to protecting children and enabling them to grow, learn, and thrive,” Dr. Herbert Carpio, MD, National Director, World Vision Philippines. 

The organization believes that combining infrastructure improvements with behavior change and health education can help create lasting impacts on children’s health, reduce the risk of waterborne diseases, and enable learners to reach their full potential in a safe and supportive school environment.