Students of Mogpog Central School (MCS) in Marinduque are set to benefit from a major boost in their educational resources, as the school received a P40-million allocation for a new library.

The funding for the construction of the four-story multipurpose library was made possible through the efforts of Senator Loren Legarda, a long-time advocate for educational reform.

Legarda, who has consistently championed improvements in education across the country, worked tirelessly to ensure the library project was included in the 2025 General Appropriations Act.

Bogs Luarca, vice president of the Mogpog Central School Alumni Association Inc. (MCSAAI), expressed deep gratitude to Legarda for her efforts to make the alumni association’s dream of a library a reality.

“Even though Christmas has passed, I can honestly say that this is the best gift ever to Mogpog Central School. It’s truly special, especially since this has been a long-time wish of the Mogpog Central School Alumni Association Inc. — to have a multi-purpose library, a dream we’ve had since the pandemic,” Luarca said in an interview with DAILY TRIBUNE.

According to Luarca, the proposal for the library had been in the works since 2019, but it was only through Legarda’s perseverance and advocacy that the funding was finally secured.

In a separate interview, Pat Del Prado, an MCS alumna and a Grade 6 teacher at Danao Elementary School, echoed the sentiment.

“We are truly thankful to Senator Loren Legarda for her unwavering support in securing this vital project. The people of Mogpog are so grateful, and we will keep her in our prayers,” Del Prano said.

For her part, Legarda said that securing the funding was part of her job as a public servant.

“I am happy to help,” she said in a message to DAILY TRIBUNE. She also promised to provide books once the library is completed.

Earlier this year, Legarda, a four-time senator and former commissioner of the Second Congressional Commission on Education, pledged to push for more legislation aimed at improving health and education across the country, with a special focus on underserved and remote areas.

“As we move into the new year, we remain focused on alleviating poverty, expanding access to education and healthcare, and creating jobs. These goals are essential for building a more inclusive and prosperous nation,” she said.

Currently, the municipality of Mogpog has only two public libraries, leaving many students without easy access to essential learning materials.

With the new library, the nearly 1,000 students at MCS will have a dedicated space for learning, exploration, and personal growth. This is expected to significantly enhance their academic development and empower them to become the next generation in Mogpog, ready to reach their full potential.

“We are truly honored to have been selected as one of the beneficiaries of this project... This opportunity will greatly enhance our ability to provide a more enriching educational experience to our students, teachers and the entire school community…,” said Leo Mapacpac, the principal of MCS.

“We look forward to collaborating and ensuring the success of this project,” he added.