The Department of Education, in partnership with the city government of San Carlos, inaugurated and turned over the newly-constructed two-storey Schools Division Office (SDO) of San Carlos City in Negros Occidental, worth P59 million.
Located at Sitio Andoon in Barangay Rizal, the construction of the SDO, funded by the DepEd Central Office through the FY 2024 General Appropriations Act, started on Aug. 19, 2024, during the tenure of Dennis Develos, then officer-in-charge of the Office of the Schools Division Superintendent, and was completed on Nov. 11, 2025, under the leadership of OIC SDS Ma. Teresa Geroso and OIC assistant SDS Heidelyn Geromiano.
The new facility will serve as the office of DepEd personnel in San Carlos City, providing a more conducive workplace for personnel and a more accessible setting for delivering education services to learners, teachers, and stakeholders.
Geroso said the inauguration is more than a celebration, noting that the new edifice serves as a reminder of what can be achieved through collective effort and a shared commitment to moving forward.
She said the event’s theme, “Tindog 2026: Together in Inclusivity, Nurturing Dreams, Opportunities, and Growth: Gateway to Service and Learning”, reflects DepEd’s commitment to serving with joy and standing for education, learners, and public service.
Geroso added that the new office was designed as an open door where inclusivity can be practiced, and where the dreams of every Sancarloseño can be nurtured into tangible opportunities.
DepEd-Negros Island Region director Ramir Uytico, meanwhile, challenged Education personnel to turn the new facility into a space where stakeholders can see meaningful results.
He stressed that the project should not be viewed merely as an infrastructure investment but as an opportunity to improve services and create positive outcomes for the community.
Uytico said he also hopes for continued progress in the division, particularly in the growth of dedicated teachers and DepEd personnel, who provide efficient and friendly service to those who transact with their offices.
Mayor Renato Gustilo said in a city press release that the project was made possible through the continued efforts and support of Team Unity, along with the collaboration of DepEd and the city government.
Former Negros Occidental 1st District Rep. Gerardo Valmayor Jr. expressed confidence that DepEd will continue to maximize, maintain, and develop the facility as a center for education and public service in San Carlos City.
Geromiano thanked congressman Julio Ledesma IV, Valmayor, Gustilo, Vice Mayor Christopher Paul Carmona, members of the Sangguniang Panlungsod, and other city officials for their support toward the completion of the building. ||
