The Makati City government has reiterated its appeal to Vice President and Education Secretary Sara Duterte to resolve the issue concerning the management and administration of three public schools in two EMBO (Enlisted Men’s Barrio) barangays that are now under the jurisdiction of Taguig City.
The request covers the Makati Science High School (MSHS) in Cembo to be placed under the Schools Division Office of Makati City and for the integration of Fort Bonifacio Elementary School and Fort Bonifacio High School with the University of Makati (UMak) in West Rembo.
“A favorable resolution from the Vice President will allow Makati to move forward with our plans for enhanced programs and services in the said schools,” said Makati Mayor Abigail Binay in a statement on Thursday.
The appeal has already been officially conveyed to the Office of the Vice President last year. “We have already explained at length the rationale supporting our stand to exclude them from the administrative transition, and we believe it is for the best interest of the students,” Binay said.
Plans for the schools and their students have been put on hold for now, including increasing the monthly stipend of MSHS scholars from P1,500 to P3,000, in addition to free school uniforms and supplies provided every school year to all public school students, Binay added.
Binay also cited the ongoing upgrade in public school facilities, including smart classrooms equipped with interactive whiteboards and unlimited internet connection.
“We have both the political will and the resources to continue providing the essential needs of our students, including complete school gear, school supplies, nutritious snacks, and modern learning tools and facilities, among others,” the mayor said.
In her letter to Vice President dated Aug. 29, 2023, Binay underscored the importance of keeping the aforementioned schools in Makati City because they are indispensable to providing students under their jurisdiction with excellent education.
Makati’s public schools have consistently performed well in national and international assessments, showing the local government’s capability to accomplish its goals for the three schools.
MSHS and Fort Bonifacio elementary and high schools were among the schools affected when the Supreme Court ruled last year that the EMBO barangays are under the administrative control of Taguig City.
The EMBO barangays include the villages of Cembo, Comembo, Pembo, East Rembo, West Rembo, South Cembo, Pitogo, Post Proper Northside, Post Proper Southside, and Rizal.