2026-02-03

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JTS Philippines has been constructing schools each year with the goal of building one SPED school for children with disabilities in each municipality across Mindanao. On December 12, 2025, completion ceremonies for SPED schools were held in Plantation Central in Manolo Fortich municipality and Libona Crossing in Libona municipality in Bukidnon Province.

A School That Leads Children into the World

At 7:30 a.m., the JTS delegation headed to Manolo Fortich, where the completion ceremony was to take place. Manolo Fortich has been a region that has continued various collaborative projects with JTS and has consistently supported JTS activities. While only one SPED school was built per municipality in other areas, three SPED schools have been established in this municipality as of 2025. Since the construction of these schools, children with disabilities who had previously stayed at home have begun enrolling and receiving education, and the number of registered children with disabilities in the region has gradually increased. For example, at Plantation Central Elementary School, the number of students with disabilities rose from 11 before the construction of the SPED school to 17 after its completion.

At 9:50 a.m., the JTS delegation arrived at Plantation Central Elementary School in Manolo Fortich. As we stepped off the bus, students were lined up in front of the school gate and greeted us clearly in Korean.

“Hello. Nice to meet you.”

As we passed the schoolyard, a newly built SPED school stood next to the elementary school. It had been designed and placed alongside the classrooms for non-disabled students so that students with disabilities could naturally interact and learn together.

Although the building is the size of two standard classrooms, it was constructed so that it can be used as three classrooms if needed. At the time of the completion ceremony, 17 students with disabilities were studying there, and two teachers had been assigned to the school.

At 10:30 a.m., the school completion ceremony began. After the distinguished guests conducted the ribbon-cutting and unveiling ceremony, the program continued with a sign-language hymn performed by the teachers, followed by the singing of the Philippine and Korean national anthems.

Next, the vice governor of Bukidnon Province delivered a welcome address. Then JTS Philippines Director Noh Jae-guk presented a progress report, stating, “Beginning with the groundbreaking ceremony in February 2025, the school was successfully completed on schedule through cooperation between JTS, the municipal government, and the Department of Education. JTS provided the construction materials, while the local government (LGU) took charge of providing labor and managing the construction site.”

Next, a student from the SPED school came forward to the stage with a teacher and sang a congratulatory song. Whenever the student forgot the lyrics, the teacher quietly prompted them from beside the stage.

Although the pitch and rhythm were not perfect, the student completed the song to the end, and the audience responded with warm applause.

Venerable Pomnyun presented the certificate of completion to the vice governor of Bukidnon Province. Park Ji-na of JTS Philippines then handed the school keys to the municipal mayor, and Noh Jae-guk presented a clock to the Bukidnon provincial superintendent of education.

The school presented plaques of appreciation to JTS Philippines and the local government in recognition of their support.

This was followed by a congratulatory speech from Venerable Pomnyun.

“Today, I sincerely congratulate you on the completion of the SPED school at Plantation Central in Manolo Fortich. Students, parents, and teachers, are you happy that a new school has been built?”

“YES!”

“The reason a school that brings you so much joy could be built is that JTS, the Mayor of Manolo Fortich, the municipal officials, and the Bukidnon Provincial Education Superintendent—who has shown deep interest in children’s education—have all worked from the perspective that every child born into this world has the right to education. Their combined dedication made this possible.

Originally, JTS aimed to build at least one SPED school in each municipality, and with today’s completion, Manolo Fortich now has its third SPED school. This demonstrates how deeply the Mayor of Manolo Fortich cares about the education of children with disabilities. I would like to take this opportunity to express our heartfelt gratitude to the Mayor. In addition, we are thankful for the support provided in various ways to make it possible for JTS to operate in this area and for assisting JTS volunteers in their activities.”

Every Child’s Learning Is Precious

To the parents raising children with disabilities, I know very well how challenging it is to care for and educate your children. No matter how much a parent feels responsible for their child, raising a child with a disability inevitably comes with many difficulties. That is why the education office must pay special attention to the education of children with disabilities, and the local government and JTS must also show greater concern. You are not alone—together, we are all paying attention to and supporting the education of these children—so I hope you will care for them with hope and dedication. According to your faith, everything that happens in this world is God’s will. Sending these lovely children to you is also God’s will, so I hope you accept God’s will joyfully and care for the children with love.

Not long ago, I had eye surgery and had to cover my eyes for several days, which caused a great deal of inconvenience. I relied on the help of those around me for daily activities. In the same way, when someone has a disability, more support from others is necessary. But with just a little extra effort and support, anyone can learn regardless of disability. I hope this school will become a place that helps children overcome their disabilities and live independently.

“I would also like to express my deep gratitude to the teachers who guide children with disabilities. It requires even greater effort and patience, but when you see the children, after a long process, acquiring knowledge and managing daily life just like other children, you too will experience great joy as teachers. I ask that you continue your dedicated efforts in the future as well.”

Parents, teachers, and students responded with enthusiastic applause. Afterwards, the Mayor delivered a response to Venerable Pomnyun’s message.

“Since 2007, we have shared a very precious relationship with JTS. Over the years, JTS has supported a total of 21 classrooms in our municipality of Manolo Fortich. On behalf of the local government and the community, I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude to the JTS family for your long-standing and unwavering support.

You have worked quietly and steadily, guided by true compassion and a spirit of service, without seeking recognition or reward. We will never forget this spirit. The warm generosity of JTS and your belief that ‘every child has the right to a better education’ will remain in the hearts of our residents for a long time. We sincerely thank you.”

Next, the Bukidnon Provincial Education Superintendent delivered a response.

“I would like to ask you a question. Why are the number of students requiring special education increasing these days? In fact, the number of students has not suddenly grown. These children simply were not visible to us before. Children who used to hide away, unable to come outside, are now finally beginning to step into the world. This is because the community is gradually starting to change its perspective.”

“The biggest reason this change has been possible is thanks to the beautiful special education classrooms built by JTS. The most beautiful classrooms in this school are the special education classrooms created by JTS. The Department of Education also wanted to bring about such change, but due to limited resources, it was not easy to do alone. JTS joined us on that journey.

Bukidnon Province has 720 schools, but only a few central schools are equipped with proper special education facilities. Even that was made possible with the help of JTS. Now, however, these children have the opportunity to live ordinary lives, to show kindness and compassion to others, and to contribute to society. We are deeply grateful to JTS and the local government for making this dream a reality.”

Afterwards, local officials delivered their responses, and together with the guests, they participated in a ceremonial tree planting to wish for the children’s growth.

After the tree planting, Venerable Pomnyun engaged with the special school students, making eye contact, shaking hands, and giving them snacks.

Finally, a commemorative photo was taken, and the children enthusiastically shouted, “Thank you, JTS! Plantation!”

Afterwards, the group shared a lunch prepared by the teachers and parents, and the children waved goodbye as they boarded the bus.

A School Built with One Heart for the Children’s Education

After a bus ride of about 30 minutes, the JTS delegation arrived at Libona Crossing Elementary School for the final completion ceremony of their tour.

Archbishop Tony of Cagayan de Oro attended the ceremony, traveling a long distance to grace the event, and Venerable Pomnyun was the first to greet him.

The Libona Crossing SPED School was also harmoniously situated alongside the classrooms for non-disabled students within the central elementary school.

Two spacious classrooms were neatly built, and each classroom was equipped with a dedicated restroom for students with disabilities.

At 1:00 PM, the ribbon-cutting and unveiling ceremony took place.

The group then moved to the event area to continue the completion ceremony. The students went on stage and performed a hymn in sign language, after which the attendees sang the Philippine  and Korean national anthems.

Noh Jae-guk, JTS Philippines’ representative, reported, “The construction, which began with the groundbreaking ceremony in February 2025, was completed on schedule thanks to everyone’s cooperation,” and added, “We hope this SPED center will help children with disabilities not be left behind in basic education and allow them to develop their potential.”

Next, the students’ performances took place. The attendees responded with warm applause as the children danced freely to the music.

Afterwards, a ceremony to present the completion certificate, school keys, and a clock was held. In return, the school presented plaques of appreciation to JTS and the local government.

Venerable Pomnyun’s congratulatory address followed.

“Today, I sincerely congratulate you on the completion of the SPED school for children with disabilities at Libona Crossing. I believe the students, parents, and teachers are the happiest to see the SPED school completed.

Today is especially joyful because Archbishop Tony personally attended to give his blessing. Despite his age and the long distance from Cagayan de Oro to be here, he came in person to celebrate this occasion. Let us give a big round of applause for Archbishop Tony.”

Children with physical disabilities face many more challenges in receiving an education compared to non-disabled students. In remote areas with poor transportation, even non-disabled children have difficulty accessing education, and children with disabilities are even more likely to be left behind. This is why the worries of parents raising children with disabilities are the greatest. One can imagine how much emotional strain it must be to raise beloved children in an environment where proper education is difficult to provide.

Every Child Has the Right to Education

That said, parents alone cannot solve this problem. In such cases, it is not only the parents of children with disabilities but all of us around them who must take an interest to ensure that these children receive adequate education. That is why today’s event has been organized.

“JTS is working to ensure that growing children receive the education they need on time. Every child deserves an education, whether they have physical disabilities, live in remote areas with poor transportation, or face any other obstacles. Here in Mindanao, we are paying special attention to children who have difficulties accessing education. The local government and the education superintendent are also supporting the education of children with disabilities. Currently, local government units are establishing schools for special education, and by next year, it seems that every local government unit in Bukidnon Province will have a SPED school.”

“However, education does not happen just because classrooms exist. First, we need special education teachers who can teach the children. Training and education for the teachers must also be provided so that they can teach and care for the children more effectively. Not only the education office but also the school principals should take special interest in this matter.”

“And to the parents, please do not keep your children at home—no matter how difficult it may be, make sure they attend school. There are many children with disabilities around us who stay at home and do not come outside. If you notice such children, please help persuade their parents so that they can attend school.

Of course, special education can be challenging and requires a long process. However, if children go through this process and achieve a certain level of learning, they can participate in society just like non-disabled individuals. Our children are gifts from God given to you. Please care for them with even more love. Thank you.”

Next, the Bukidnon Provincial Education Superintendent delivered a response to Venerable Pomnyun’s message.

“It has been very meaningful to participate in the completion ceremonies over the past four days. Above all, we are deeply grateful to JTS for making all of this possible. We also sincerely thank the local government for their active cooperation. And we are deeply thankful to the Archbishop for connecting all of these people here to Mindanao.”

In the past, children had to stay in poor conditions with no lighting and even no proper ventilation. But now, the situation has changed. We are deeply grateful to JTS and Venerable Pomnyun. Thanks to them, special education centers have been established close to each community, allowing parents to send their children to school without having to travel long distances.

“These children also have the right to education, the right to be loved, and the right to be respected. All they need are slightly different tools and facilities. Once these are in place, they too can realize their potential, contribute to society, and grow into individuals who share gratitude and kindness with others. Once again, we express our heartfelt thanks.”

Next, local government officials and the school principal delivered their responses.

After the speeches, everyone participated in a ceremonial tree planting, wishing for the children to grow up healthy.

After giving snacks to the students, a final group photo was taken with the guests, parents, teachers, and students.

Before boarding the bus after the completion ceremony, the Venerable expressed special gratitude to the Bukidnon Provincial Education Superintendent for participating in all the completion ceremonies over the past four days.

As the bus departed, the children waved goodbye until it was out of sight.

JTS Philippines, Quietly Putting JTS Values into Practice

On the bus during the journey, the Venerable encouraged the JTS volunteers who worked hard on the construction of 15 schools this year.

“Everyone has worked really hard. Please come forward one by one and share a few words about your experience.”

First, Noh Jae-guk, JTS Philippines’ representative, shared his thoughts:

“Having just attended the Libona Crossing SPED school completion ceremony, I feel very proud. Thanks to all of you who prayed for us, cared for us, and supported us quietly behind the scenes, the ceremonies went smoothly. Every time we held a completion ceremony, the residents and teachers prepared food with such care, and we enjoyed it immensely—I don’t know how to repay them. Venerable Ponmyun quietly watched over me and guided me, even when I was reckless, which gave me confidence as we built the schools.”

Next, Noh Ok-jae, Secretary General of JTS Philippines, shared her reflections.

“At first, it was really difficult. But after spending six full years diligently building schools, I now feel confident that we can continue this work. Thank you for participating in all the schedules without complaint, even during such a demanding itinerary.”

The bus wound its way up the mountain roads and arrived at the Mindanao JTS Center at 3:30 PM, concluding all the completion ceremony events.

That evening, Venerable Pomnyun shared on the live Friday “Dharma Q&A” broadcast the process through which JTS Philippines has been building schools for children left in the blind spots of education.

“I am currently in Mindanao, Philippines. This year, JTS Philippines has built a total of 15 schools in Mindanao: 10 schools for indigenous communities and 5 SPED schools for children with disabilities. Among these, three schools previously held their completion ceremonies, and over the past four days here, I participated in two ceremonies per day, attending a total of eight school completion ceremonies. The remaining four schools are not yet finished, so their completion ceremonies will likely take place in about a month.”

Finding Children Left in the Blind Spots of Education

The reason we primarily build schools in Mindanao, Philippines, is that this region is not only economically disadvantaged but also home to indigenous communities living in mountainous areas, where transportation is difficult and students are scattered across the hills, resulting in very limited educational opportunities. Therefore, we are building schools in each mountain village with around 50 to 100 students. Additionally, there are very few SPED schools for children with disabilities in this area. That is why we continue to build one SPED school for children with disabilities at each central elementary school in every municipality.

Through these activities, JTS is realizing the value that “every child born into this world has the right to education and should receive it on time.” At first, the Philippine government and education office were somewhat neglectful in providing educational opportunities to children with disabilities, indigenous children, and those in conflict areas who had difficulty accessing education. Recently, however, awareness has changed significantly, and they are now participating very actively. These days, they work closely with JTS on many initiatives.”

Along with photos from the completion ceremonies, he briefly shared the five-day journey and once again emphasized the significance of education in bringing children into the world.