IBA, Zambales — The provincial government has officially turned over the newly constructed Schools Division Office (SDO) Training Center at Iba Elementary School on 11 November, a facility designed to strengthen the province’s education sector and grassroots sports development.

Governor Hermogenes E. Ebdane Jr., along with OIC-Schools Division Superintendent William Roderick R. Fallorin, Assistant SDS Alberto M. Otchengco Jr., and other officials from DepEd-Zambales, led the turnover ceremony. 

Rev. Fr. Manuel A. Ebuengan of St. Augustine Cathedral officiated the blessing of the new center, formally opening it to teachers and student-athletes.

Governor Ebdane said the new SDO Training Center will serve as a “home for teachers, non-teaching staff, and athletes,” providing a space for training, meetings and professional growth.

“The Provincial Government continues to build projects that promote quality education, enhance teachers’ capabilities, and support young athletes. These are our investments in a brighter future for every Zambaleño,” Ebdane said. Zambales has produced many competitive student-athletes who have represented the province in regional and national meets such as the Central Luzon Regional Athletic Association and the Palarong Pambansa.

The province continues to back its youth athletes across various sports — including volleyball, athletics, sepak takraw, taekwondo and boxing — through local competitions and incentive programs for winners at the regional, national and international levels.