PICE ZDS Donates School Supplies to Indigenous Pupils of Dampalan Elementary School

In a heartfelt show of solidarity with Indigenous communities, the Philippine Institute of Civil Engineers (PICE) Zamboanga del Sur Chapter conducted a school supply donation drive at Dampalan Elementary School on June 13, 2025.

The initiative, led by PICE ZDS officers and members, aimed to uplift learners especially those from Indigenous Peoples (IPs) groups by providing essential school supplies including notebooks, pens, and learning materials.

According to Engineer Gerry D. Nebria, Treasurer of the PICE ZDS Chapter, the choice of location was intentional.

“Dampalan is close to my heart. As a community with many Indigenous learners, it deserves attention and support,” Engr. Nebria shared.

“This is our chapter’s first-ever gift-giving activity, and we hope it sets the tone for future outreach efforts.”

Also present at the event were Chapter President Engr. Alcachupas, Vice President Engr. Baya, Engr. Cantona, Engr. Nuenay, Engr. Bahinting and Engr. Chavez, who all took part in personally distributing the supplies. Engr. Alcachupas and Engr. Baya delivered short but powerful speeches, encouraging students to persevere in their education despite challenges.

Helping to facilitate the coordination between the school and the organization was Mrs. Ermelhen Nebria, a nurse II under the Department of Education – City Division, who supervised and communicated closely with the school principal. Her involvement ensured that the donations directly addressed the school’s urgent needs, especially for Indigenous learners who are often underserved.

During the short program, chapter leaders shared inspirational messages of hope, reminding the young learners that education is a foundation no difficulty can take away.

The principal, teachers, and staff of Dampalan Elementary School expressed heartfelt gratitude, noting that the donation directly addressed one of the school’s most pressing challenges.

“Many of our students lose the will to attend school simply because they lack basic supplies. Some families just can’t afford them,” the principal shared.

“This gesture will go a long way in restoring their motivation to come to school.”

A significant number of the school’s enrollees come from Indigenous communities in the area. For these children, education is not only a right but a lifeline one that often comes with unique hurdles. But with meaningful support from organizations like PICE ZDS, those hurdles become more manageable.

As the event concluded, students offered their sincere thanks in their native tongue:
“Palad-palad, gupya.”
(Thank you very much, in Subanen language.)

PICE ZDS hopes to continue and expand similar outreach programs in the future, bringing not just school supplies but renewed hope to underserved communities.

For the organization, this marks more than just a donation. It is the start of a mission building not only roads and structures, but brighter futures.

Philippine People’s Press | In Truth We Prevail