Tampakan, South Cotabato – In a heartwarming display of its commitment to education and community development, Sagittarius Mines, Inc. (SMI) brought joy and excitement to the learners of Tokay Mal Elementary School through the distribution of brand-new school bags for Grade 1 to Grade 6 pupils and the turnover of monoblock chairs for school use.
The activity, held on June 4, 2026, at Sitio Tokaymal, Barangay Tablu, Tampakan, South Cotabato, reflects the spirit of Brigada Eskwela and comes at the perfect time as schools prepare for the opening of classes this June.
The school bags brought smiles to the faces of the learners, many of whom had long hoped to own a new bag for school. Their excitement and enthusiasm were evident as they prepared for another year of learning. Meanwhile, the monoblock chairs will support classroom activities, school programs, and meetings, helping create a more comfortable learning environment for both pupils and teachers.
As a school situated in a Geographically Isolated and Disadvantaged Area (GIDA), Tokay Mal Elementary School faces challenges that often limit access to educational resources. In communities where support can be difficult to obtain, SMI’s assistance carries special significance, bringing both practical benefits and renewed hope to learners, their families, and the entire community.
Teacher-in-Charge Gilbert A. Aungon, T-III, expressed his heartfelt gratitude to SMI for extending assistance to the school and its learners.
“Damo gid ang amon nga pasalamat sa SMI sa ila pagtabang sa amon mga kabataan kag mga IPs. Nagapasalamat gid kami kay nakadawat sila sang bags na kung sa diin dugay na nila gina handom. Makita mo gid sa mga bata ang ilang kalipay. Kag sa mga bangko, dako ni nga tabang. Salamat gid sa SMI sa ila pagtabang sa Tokay Mal Elementary School,” he said.
This meaningful gesture from Sagittarius Mines, Inc. (SMI) reflects the essence of Brigada Eskwela, where collaboration among stakeholders, communities, and partners helps build stronger and more inclusive learning environments. It also highlights SMI’s commitment to shared responsibility in education, showing that even in Geographically Isolated And Disadvantaged Area (GIDA) like Sitio Tokaymal, education thrives through collective action and becomes a vital path toward a better future.
As the new school year begins, the learners of Tokay Mal Elementary School step into their classrooms carrying not only new school bags, but also renewed confidence, hope, and inspiration— reassured that their community, together with partners like SMI, continues to support and guide them in every step of their learning journey (30)
