[Philippines] Inauguration Ceremonies for Degebdeb Indigenous School and Kadingilan Special Education School

2026-02-02

On December 11, 2025, inauguration ceremonies were held for the Degebdeb School located in an indigenous village in the municipality of Don Carlos, Bukidnon Province, Philippines, and for a Special Education School in the city of Kadingilan.

A Place to Learn the Foundations of Life

The JTS delegation departed from Valencia at 7:30 a.m. and headed to Degebdeb Village, where the inauguration ceremony was to be held. Degebdeb—meaning “the sound of horse hooves”—is an indigenous village inhabited by the Manobo people. The school built there is the largest among those constructed by JTS Philippines this year.

Although the school has four standard classrooms, it was designed so that the interior can be partitioned and used as seven rooms in total. Elections were scheduled across Mindanao in May, and although an agreement had been signed in February, the execution of the budget was delayed. As a result, construction could only begin in July.

Despite the short construction period, work continued even at night, and many people contributed their efforts to complete the building—including painting work that continued until the day before the inauguration ceremony.

Although the Don Carlos municipal government repaired the access road to the school, it was still too rough for a bus to use. The delegation transferred to trucks and four-wheel-drive vehicles on the unpaved road and continued on to the school.

At 9:20 a.m., the JTS delegation arrived at Degebdeb School and toured both the inside and outside of the school building.

At 10:00 a.m., the ceremony began with a ribbon-cutting and unveiling ceremony, followed by the national anthems of the Philippines and Korea.

The event continued with a welcome address from the village head and a progress report by Roh Jae-guk, the representative of JTS Philippines. Roh explained that the school was completed on schedule thanks to close cooperation: JTS provided the construction materials, while the local government supplied labor and oversaw on-site monitoring. He also expressed his deep gratitude to the engineers who participated in the construction, as well as to the school principal, the Datu, and the indigenous education coordinator.

Next, the students presented a celebratory performance. Degebdeb Village is a place where the traditional culture of the Manobo people has been well preserved. Dressed in traditional attire, the students took the stage and expressed the process of farming—sowing seeds, nurturing the crops, and harvesting them—through dance.

The lively performance drew continuous applause from the audience.

After the performance, Venerable Pomnyun Sunim, Chairperson of JTS, presented the completion certificate to the municipal mayor. JTS representative Park Ji-na handed the school keys to the Bukidnon Provincial Education Director, and Roh Jae-guk presented a clock to the school principal.

This was followed by Venerable Pomnyun Sunim’s congratulatory address:

“Students, parents, and teachers, it is a pleasure to be with you. I am truly delighted that Degebdeb Elementary School has been successfully completed and that we are able to hold today’s inauguration ceremony. You must be very happy as well, right?”

“YES!”

“This wonderful school was made possible through the collaboration of several organizations. JTS provided the materials, the Don Carlos local government supplied the technicians, and the Department of Education dispatched the teachers. It was the combined efforts of these three groups that brought us to today’s achievement. In particular, the municipal mayor of Don Carlos provided active support throughout this process.”

Building the School Together, Brightening the Children’s Future

“The reason we came together to build this school is to provide you, the children, with a better environment and conditions for learning. But besides the three organizations I mentioned earlier, there is one person who made a special contribution to the construction of this school. Can you guess who it is? This person is the one who donated the land on which the school now stands. Please come forward for a moment. Everyone, let’s give a big round of applause to welcome them.”

The tribal leader guiding the village (the Datu), stepped forward onto the stage.

“It is thanks to people like this that our children can study in better conditions, and that the community can continue to develop. This person not only donated land for the elementary school but has also provided enough land for a future high school to be built.”

Venerable Pomnyun Sunim placed a flower garland around the Datu’s neck as a token of appreciation.

“To educate children, the efforts of parents alone are not enough. Education cannot succeed through the efforts of the Department of Education or teachers alone either. It is only when local government, community leaders, and external support—like that of JTS—come together, as we see here, that a proper learning environment can be established.

Simply constructing a school building does not automatically create education. Inside it, teachers must provide quality instruction, and students must actively receive and learn from that teaching. The experiences you gain here—learning and growing—will later become cherished memories and serve as a strong foundation for your lives as you become adults.”

“Looking back on my own childhood, I grew up in the countryside and had to walk long distances to reach school. It was difficult at the time, but that experience has actually helped me maintain my health to this day. I also fondly remember learning not only academics but many new things from my teachers—memories that remain very precious to me even now.

I would like to make a request to the teachers: your care and love provide tremendous support for the children’s growth. I sincerely hope that such quality education will take place here at Degebdeb Elementary School. Once again, congratulations on the completion of the school.”

“Lastly, I would like to express my gratitude to one more person—Mr. Jesse Andres, who worked hard for the construction of this school. After retiring from his position as a public official in Damulog, Jesse joined JTS as a volunteer and took great care in overseeing the building of this school with sincere dedication.”

Venerable Pomnyun Sunim then invited Jesse to the front of the stage, placed a flower garland around his neck, and conveyed his heartfelt thanks.

“I hope that the public officials who have joined us today will also actively take part in such meaningful work after their retirement. Once again, I sincerely thank you all.”

This was followed by a congratulatory speech from the mayor. The mayor remarked that “JTS’s kindness goes far beyond material support, and students no longer have to walk long distances to attend school.” He emphasized, “I hope the children—who are the heart of the community and its future—will discover their potential here, value their identity, and pursue their dreams without limits.”

The Superintendent of Education for Bukidnon also expressed gratitude, noting that the joy of students having new classrooms was clearly visible on their faces. He added, “JTS has come here and made the idea that ‘education is everyone’s responsibility’ a reality.”

The Datu, who is also the Municipal Mayor, stated, “This school is a great blessing for our children and families,” and pledged to actively support the teachers and the school so that more children can continue their education.

Finally, the principal concluded the ceremony by saying, “Today is not simply a day to hand over a building, but a meaningful day to share hope, opportunity, and a brighter future for our children.” The principal also encouraged the students to cherish this place of learning so that it can continue to benefit future generations.

After the ceremony concluded, a commemorative tree-planting took place in the schoolyard. Everyone picked up shovels and planted a tree together, wishing that the children would grow strong and healthy like the tree.

Afterward, a group photo was taken in front of the newly built school. Snacks were then distributed to the children, and refreshments were shared, featuring simple dishes thoughtfully prepared with ingredients grown by local residents.

After the ceremony, Venerable Pomnyun Sunim spoke with the Datu who had donated the school site and Edwin, the Indigenous education officer. The Datu shared concerns about the reality that the expansion of large corporate plantations is threatening Indigenous land and identity.

“In this area, major companies, including Del Monte, are seeking to expand their pineapple plantations. Some tribes are already willing to sell their land, but our tribe has no intention of selling under any circumstances.”

Venerable Pomnyun Sunim said that they had done very well, and explained why.

“You’ve made the right decision. If you sell your land, your tribe will eventually be driven out and end up as laborers. While having a new school brings many benefits, there is also a risk of losing traditional culture and beliefs. In addition, many people may approach you from abroad with the intention of missionary work.”

Edwin emphasized that Venerable Pomnyun Sunim’s concerns are already becoming a reality.

“In fact, what you are worried about is already happening. Large corporations are moving in, and as people are influenced by what they teach and show, conflicts are gradually increasing. Our tribe wants to protect our land, air, and sky, but we are deeply concerned that we are steadily losing them due to outside forces. If we fail to protect nature, our identity will disappear as well.”

Venerable Pomnyun Sunim agreed with Edwin and explained that preserving traditional culture is also one of JTS’s key missions.

“I completely agree. First, we must protect the land and nature; second, we must preserve our faith; and third, we must safeguard our culture. Only then can we develop a sense of self-respect within ourselves. In fact, having self-respect is more important than building structures. Since you are responsible for Indigenous education, you should work to ensure that nothing harms the identity of each tribe.

The reason the world is now facing a climate crisis is because humans have destroyed nature. We are entering an era where becoming one with nature is more important than distinctions between religions such as Christianity and Buddhism. Therefore, beyond just building schools, we should also organize programs where Indigenous communities come together—such as traditional dance competitions between schools, or speech contests where children talk about the value of their cultural heritage, with awards given to participants. JTS will also provide funding for these initiatives.”

Edwin, the Indigenous education officer, responded with strong agreement to his remarks.

“We will do so. Currently, there are 267 schools designated to provide education on Indigenous identity. I believe the programs you suggested can be implemented. However, as you can see around you, the trees are gradually disappearing. This is because large corporations are carrying out extensive logging. We believe that even a single tree has a spirit within it. I would also like to develop educational programs that help preserve this belief.”

“If you would like to carry out a tree-planting initiative, JTS will support you by providing trees. If facilities are needed to help preserve traditional culture, we will support that as well.”

Edwin was delighted to hear Venerable Pomnyun Sunim’s response.

“Thank you very much. I will submit a proposal.”

A School Like a Gift for the Children

While traveling to the Kadingilan Special School, Venerable Pomnyun Sunim spoke to JTS activists about the need for education, while also highlighting the potential contradictions and unintended consequences that can arise.

“When we build new schools, there are many benefits, such as helping to eliminate illiteracy. However, if Western-style education is introduced, there is also a risk that traditional culture and identity may be lost. As children gain knowledge, they may also come to take for granted the value of nature and manual labor. How to address this contradiction is a major challenge.”

At 12:50 p.m., while engaged in conversation, the group arrived at Kadingilan Central Elementary School.

As they stepped off the bus, students and teachers warmly welcomed the JTS delegation.

As they walked along the path decorated ahead of Christmas and passed the main building, a newly constructed special education school for students with disabilities came into view. Located beside the main building, the special education facility was designed to allow students with disabilities to interact naturally with their non-disabled peers.

At 1:30 p.m., the inauguration ceremony for Kadingilan City’s first special education school began.

Distinguished guests jointly cut the ribbon and unveiled the plaque, after which the students performed hymns in sign language and sang the national anthems of Philippine and Korea.

The mayor greeted everyone energetically in Korean, saying “Annyeonghaseyo!” and emphasized that this classroom is not just a building, but a place of learning where children with special needs can feel safe and respected. He also stated that investment in special education represents a commitment to ensuring that all children, regardless of differences in ability, have access to a high-quality educational environment.

Next, Director Noh Jae-guk presented a progress report on the school construction. He explained that for the construction of the Kadingilan Special School, JTS provided building materials, while the local government contributed manpower and supervised the construction, actively supporting the project.

Construction began with a groundbreaking ceremony in February 2025, and thanks to this collaboration, the project was completed on schedule. He expressed his gratitude to the mayor, public officials, and technical staff for their contributions.

After the students’ celebratory performance, Venerable Pomnyun Sunim presented the certificate of completion to the mayor. Then, Representative Park Ji-na handed over a key to the superintendent of education, and Director Noh Jae-guk presented clocks to be placed in each classroom to the school principal.

Amid loud applause, Venerable Pomnyun Sunim stepped forward to deliver his congratulatory remarks.

“Today, I am delighted to celebrate together with all of you the completion of the Special Education (SPED) classroom within Kadingilan Central Elementary School. Parents and students, are you happy?”

“YES!”

“Seeing your joyful faces, I believe that all those who worked hard to build this classroom will feel a great sense of fulfillment. This classroom was built through the combined efforts of JTS Philippines, the Kadingilan local government, and the Department of Education. The reason we worked together to build this classroom is to ensure that all of you children can receive a better education in a more convenient and safe environment.”

These children are gifts given to us by God.

Dear parents, every parent hopes that their child will be physically and mentally healthy. How painful it must have been when you learned that your child had some physical or developmental challenges. But according to your faith, these children are not a result of any wrongdoing—they are gifts from God.

However, it is difficult for parents alone to care for these children. That is why all members of society must come together to support them. For these children to learn, they need a little more effort, more teaching, and more support compared to others. Although the process may be more challenging, once they receive education, as you just saw, they can sing, dance, and express themselves well.”

Recently in Korea, a person with a visual impairment studied and became a member of the National Assembly, giving lectures to inspire young people. Our children, too, should be able to grow in that way. To make this possible, parents must go beyond simply loving their children and provide education tailored to each child’s unique needs. Educational authorities should also train and assign teachers who can teach in ways suited to students’ disabilities. In addition, many educational resources and materials are needed. Let us all work together to create an environment where these children can receive education just like non-disabled children.

Currently, in Bukidnon, local governments are working to establish one special school in each area. This has been made possible thanks to the strong interest and support of the Superintendent of Education. The goal is to provide equal educational opportunities for all children. Please join me in giving another round of applause to the Superintendent for his dedication to the education of children with disabilities.”

Venerable Pomnyun Sunim also expressed his gratitude to the education officials who have dedicated themselves to special education and Indigenous education, and presented them with books as a token of appreciation.

“You should be proud that there are education officials in the Bukidnon Education Department who are so dedicated to the children.

Dear children, many people are expressing their love for you in this way. I hope you will grow up well surrounded by such care and affection. Providing special education for children is a very challenging task. Please give a round of applause for the teachers as well.”

“Today’s event should not end with simply constructing a building. Rather, I hope it will serve as a starting point for all of us to come together and continue to care for and support the education of children with disabilities.

Lastly, I would like to express my gratitude to the mayor for allocating a budget for this special school, despite very limited local funds. I hope you will continue to show your support and interest going forward.”

After Venerable Pomnyun Sunim’s congratulatory speech, the mayor of Kadingilan expressed his gratitude.

“On behalf of the Kadingilan local government, I would like to extend my deepest thanks once again to everyone at JTS Philippines. At times, we have felt envious seeing other local governments collaborating with JTS. Now, JTS has finally come to Kadingilan, and we are able to begin this meaningful project together for children in special education. We are truly grateful and consider this a great blessing. The Kadingilan local government sincerely hopes to continue a long-term partnership with JTS. Thank you once again from the bottom of our hearts.”

Next, the Superintendent of Education of Bukidnon expressed his gratitude.

“Until now, teachers have had to educate children in very difficult and challenging conditions. When the children become happier and teachers feel a sense of fulfillment, parents will also experience the greatest relief and joy. From now on, parents no longer need to worry, ‘Are our children safe?’”

“Now that a wonderful educational environment has been established, I hope our teachers will no longer need to go abroad in search of employment. I encourage you to fully utilize your abilities here for the benefit of the children. Once again, I offer my heartfelt thanks to JTS Philippines and the local government a hundred times over.”

The barangay captain also expressed his joy, noting that his own children now have the opportunity to be educated in a better environment.

“I sincerely thank you for giving us such a precious project. I am a parent of two children, and one of them attends the Kadingilan Special School. Thanks to the support of the JTS family, my child, along with many other students, can now enjoy a better school environment. Seeing the happiness of the parents brings me great joy as well. Thank you from the bottom of my heart.”

Finally, after the representative of the parents’ association expressed their gratitude, the inauguration ceremony came to a close.

“To the supporters in Korea, thank you sincerely for believing in every child’s potential and for your generosity. This space will be a home where children in special education are encouraged and can grow. Your kindness will extend far beyond this classroom and remain deeply in the children’s lives. Its impact will resonate in every lesson and in every moment of their growth. Let us continue to join hands and build a brighter, more inclusive future together.”

After the event concluded, the attendees planted a commemorative tree in the schoolyard and distributed snacks to the children.

Afterward, a group commemorative photo was taken, and the students personally handed handwritten letters of gratitude to the JTS Philippines activists.

After sharing a meal prepared with care, the visiting delegation waved goodbye to the children and departed from the school.