GABALDON

SCHOOLHOUSES
DEPED’S PRESERVING HERITAGE AND PATRIMONY

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GABALDON SCHOOLHOUSES
DepEd’s Preserving Heritage and Patrimony

Copyright © 2022
Photographs are from the DepEd Gabaldon Documentation Team, Education Facilities Division,
Field Offices, Schools, and Personnel unless otherwise indicated.

Department of Education
Metro Manila Philippines 1500
First Printing, June 2022
ISBN
Printed in the Philippines

All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced,

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Message of the Secretary
A s a teacher coming from a family of teachers,
Gabaldon schoolhouses very much remind me
of my childhood education, in a time when
life was simpler, though not without struggle. Today
however, as head of the Department of Education,
these structures have taken on greater life and meaning.
More than conveying the importance of learning, they
stand to remind us of everyone’s right to education,
and to fulfill that right—our very mandate—for every
Filipino child.
Gabaldon schoolhouses, a legacy from the Americans,
have housed thousands of students, who in different
capacities have risen to prominence and contributed
to nation building. Perhaps it would be instructive
to look into the character of these heritage
structures. Built from the finest local materials,
the simple plan is raised on stilts, the interior with
high ceiling, the walls with wide open translucent
windows and perforated transoms, that catch
and allow natural light and air into the structure.
Adapted to Philippine climate, it employs cross-
ventilation which allows the free flow of air inside
and outside, keeping the whole structure cool. It can
be argued that it is this simplicity, this freedom of
movement and space, this openness and pervading
airiness are what have made these schoolhouses last
and conducive teaching and learning environments.
In many ways, and not far-fetched, the Gabaldon
schoolhouses symbolize DepEd’s shared vision
and agenda of a quality, accessible, relevant, and
liberating basic education for all.
Since the passage of Republic Act 11194 or the Gabaldon
School Buildings Conservation Act in 2018, the
Department has—with renewed vigor—continued the
efforts of past administrations to restore the remaining
Gabaldon school buildings in the country through the
Gabaldon Schoolhouse Conservation Project.
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“ “
As Filipinos, let us give tribute to and
ensure the continuity of our historical,
social, cultural, and architectural past...
It goes without saying that this nationwide project is
no easy task and we call upon everyone and anyone to
help and support this endeavor. Contributions may
come through fund assistance, construction materials,
old photos, school documents and memorabilia,
personal/historical accounts, diaries, and other
relevant information on people and personalities
who during the period since 1907 participated in
the construction, taught, studied, or were otherwise
involved in these schools.
As Filipinos, let us give tribute to and ensure the
continuity of our historical, social, cultural, and
architectural past through our heritage structures, the
Gabaldon schoolhouses—forerunners and treasures of
Philippine education.
LEONOR MAGTOLIS BRIONES
Secretary, Department of Education
Foreword
I t is with great pride that the Department of Education
(DepEd) presents this publication, a unique all-in-one
book, on DepEd Gabaldon Schoolhouses and Other
Heritage Structures under the term and leadership of
Secretary Leonor Magtolis Briones (2016-2022).
As a young boy, I have been schooled in three Gabaldon
buildings in Gerona, Tarlac. I played in their basements,
cleaned their floors, and enjoyed learning in their
classrooms. Before I became an Undersecretary in
DepEd, I learned that one of these schools gave way to
the expansion of the municipal hall and the other to new
modern structures. I was very glad to see one Gabaldon still
standing there. So I made it a point to help restore it, which
we did under the DepEd restoration program, the same
program that was able to restore the Gabaldon elementary
school where my mother, aunties, uncles, cousins, relatives,
and friends attended school in Burgos, Pangasinan.
A collective labor of love. I salute all
While repairs of Gabaldon Schoolhouses started with
previous administrations, it was only during the term of those whose hard work contributed
Secretary Briones and President Rodrigo Roa Duterte to the success of this valuable
that full restorations, not just repairs, were initiated in
great numbers. And just recently, standard restoration
document—a living legacy and a
colors and materials were defined and instituted with practical field guide for all.
the help of the National Historical Commission of the
Philippines (NHCP), the National Commission for
Culture and the Arts (NCCA), the National Museum
of the Philippines (NMP), the Department of Interior A collective labor of love, I salute all those whose hard work
and Local Government (DILG), and the Department of contributed to the success of this valuable document—a
Environment and Natural Resources (DENR). living legacy and a practical field guide for all.
As the lead agency in the country-wide conservation May we continue to increase awareness of the importance
efforts, DepEd takes on the mandate and recognizes the of national heritage within and among the conservation
intrinsic value that built heritage school buildings play community.
in the understanding and appreciation of our cultural
identity. It is for this reason, that this singular book has Para sa ating Kabataan at Para sa Bayan!
come into fruition.
More than a journey on the development of basic
education in the Philippines, this book covers the
full spectrum of built heritage school structures—
from history, to classification and types, to its
building components, materials used in construction, ALAIN DEL B. PASCUA
architectural and structural elements, alternative Undersecretary for Administration,
materials, and preventive maintenance on the long term. Department of Education

Bayombong Central School,
Nueva Vizcaya
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Contents
Gabaldon Schoolhouses:
A Living Canvas of Philippine Education.......2
Birth of a Legacy:
Gabaldon Law Through the Years................... 10
DepEd in Action:
Pioneering the Largest Conservation
Project in Philippine History........................... 13
DepEd’s Gabaldon Schoolhouses
Restoration and Conservation Program....... 20
The Making of the Implementing Rules
and Regulations (IRR) and Conservation
Guidelines for Gabaldon Schoolhouses......... 24
Continuing Challenges
of Gabaldon School Buildings........................ 28
Manual of Conservation
and Restoration of Gabaldon
and Other Heritage School Buildings............. 31
Gabaldon School Building
Classification and Typology........................... 36
Structural Components...................................72
Wall Materials...................................................81
Architectural Elements...................................85
For standard wooden Gabaldon.................. 104
For concrete and special type Gabaldon..... 106
Preventive Maintenance............................... 109
Gabaldon in Numbers: Inventory,
Accomplishment and Ways Forward............. 116
Implementing Rules And Regulations
of Republic Act No. 11194................................ 121
Annex A
Guidelines on Conservation
of Gabaldon Heritage School Buildings........ 131
West Central Elementary School:
A Stronghold of Philippine History............. 138
Some Historical
Gabaldon Schoolhouses................................ 142
EFD Gabaldon Staff Directory .................. 145
Gabaldon Schoolhouse Contest 2021......... 148
Other References
on Gabaldon Schoolhouses........................... 156
Of Glory and Antiquity:
Revisiting Baguio Teachers Camp............... 158
Who were the First Education
Secretaries of the Philippines?
By Undersecretary Alain Pascua...................... 170
People Behind the Gabaldon
Restoration Project
Book Development Team............................... 172
 Gabaldon Schoolhouses:
A Living Canvas of Philippine Education

Legarda Elementary School, Sampaloc, Manila, circa 1936

Source: Indiana University Archives

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 In 1907, the groundwork for the building of
schoolhouses commenced when Assemblyman Isauro
Gabaldon of Nueva Ecija authored Act No. 1801,
better known as Gabaldon Act. This appropriated
P1,000,000. for the “construction of schoolhouses
of strong materials in barrios with a guaranteed daily
attendance of not less than sixty pupils …”
As specified in the Gabaldon Act, schools could only be
constructed on land owned by the municipality. Funds
for each school could not exceed P4,000. unless the
municipality contributed a counterpart sum of not
less than fifty percent of the total amount granted to
it by virtue of the Gabaldon Act. The municipality
was authorized to appropriate its own funds, receive
voluntary contributions in cash, kind, or in manual
labor, for the construction of schoolhouses.
The Gabaldon Act spurred the rapid expansion for
educational facilities. Schoolhouses spread all over
the country, reaching even remote locations. Later
on, these school buildings were eponymously called
“Gabaldon.”
Ulema Abong, a pre-colonial school house in Cordillera, circa 1885-1895
Source: Museum of Ethnology, Dresden, Germany
The Construction
In 1905, American William E. Parsons, a Yale and
Ecole des Beaux-Arts (Paris) graduate, was appointed
supervising architect in charge of the design of all
public buildings and parks throughout the colony.
Recommended by the renowned urban planner
Daniel H. Burnham, Parsons assumed the position of
consulting architect for the Bureau of Public Works.
He was credited with the design of architectural
landmarks such as the Manila Hotel, the Army-Navy
Club, the Philippine General Hospital, the Mansion
House in Baguio, and the Gabaldon Schoolhouses
which were built on each island of the archipelago.
Parsons achieved the colonial government’s directive to
integrate Filipino with American ways. He effectively
assimilated Philippine building traditions and
reinterpreted them in the architectural vocabulary of
his day. He built in the salient features of traditional
Philippine architecture and blended them with the
most innovative American construction technology of
the early 20th century.

K nown as Paaralan in Filipino, it is a building

constructed for the purpose of teaching young
members of the community to embrace the diversity
The Groundwork

The contribution of the Americans indeed proved

of human experience, to know the building blocks of
life, to dream and achieve a well-rounded existence.
It serves as a shelter for learners and educators, called
Mag-aaral or student and Guro or teacher.
In the Philippines, educational facilities have gone
through numerous phases of development brought
about by different eras of foreign occupation. Rich
histories of foreign influence poured and marked
the school buildings erected in every part of the
country, and most of these edifices that have
withstood the test of time were constructed during
the American period.
invaluable; from the principles, to the system, and
even to the structures of schoolhouses, were planted
the deep roots of Philippine education.
The centennial trees of Acacia and Balete might
have witnessed the early days of an all-embracing
Philippine public school system, which meant the
arrival of more students and the need for more
schoolhouses. The Thomasites who immersed
themselves all over the country even reached far-
flung areas where no classroom facilities existed.
Evidently, the construction of new schoolhouses was
an immediate priority.

If only its four wooden walls could speak, it might tell countless memories that
have been built by the different generations of Filipino students. If only its
awning windows could feel, it may well produce tears of both happiness and
grief for all the victories it witnessed and the adversaries it endured.
Taguig Central School and New Domestic Science Building, circa 1917
Source: Luther Parker Collection, 1913-1914, National Library of the Philippines

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 Public School in Urdaneta, Pangasinan, circa 1918 Salasa Central School, Pangasinan, circa 1919
Source: Luther Parker Collection, 1913-1914, Source: Luther Parker Collection, 1913-1914,
National Library of the Philippines National Library of the Philippines

Escuela Pia in Quiapo
District designed by
Felix Rojas, the first
acknowledged Filipino
“architect” during the
Spanish Era, circa 1880s
Source: John Tewell
Collections, https://www.
flickr.com/photos/johntewell/
He was later followed by another American architect,
Ralph Harrington Doane, with designs of more artistic
reflection of the Beaux arts details and style.
Fifty-one Gabaldons were completed by 1911 and by
1916, 405 more were constructed bringing the total
number of classrooms to 1,852. A total of 327 of
these Gabaldons were made of concrete. The standard
design for the Gabaldon schools, particularly the one-
storey building, has an H or U plan, with classrooms
along one side of an open gallery, and raised about
one meter off the ground. Gabled nipa roofs were
originally installed as well as large swing-out windows
with capiz panels reminiscent of the bahay kubo.
In the Gabaldon-style school, there was architectural
harmony between the main building and other ancillary
structures. As it turned out, an elegantly designed school
instilled in both teachers and students a certain pride
and the appreciation of the finer things in life.
The overall design and orientation allow for maximum
ventilation and acoustical requirements ideal for
learning spaces in a tropical environment.

School at Mangaldan, Pangasinan, circa 1919

Source: Luther Parker Collection, 1913-1914,
National Library of the Philippines

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 The cover of the 1912 construction guidelines
for public school houses by William Parsons.
At the same time, its architectural aesthetic and
structural elements like the exposed beams, calados,
awning windows, and fascias have designs that range
from minimalist to intricate geometrics – adding to
the whole character of the Gabaldon building as a
bastion for learning.
The Legacy
The arrival of those who attained their college degree
in America through the Pensionado Act paved the
way for Filipino creativity and craftsmanship.
Equipped with advanced knowledge and skills in
architecture, Pensionado architects like Tomas Mapua,
Carlos Barreto, Antonio Toledo, and Juan Arellano
presented a Filipino-style of Gabaldon building
designs. These Filipino architects worked for the
Bureau of Public Works from the 1920s up until the
outbreak of World War II in the Philippines.
It was really through the Gabaldon schoolhouses that
modern architecture was first introduced to Filipino
shores, uplifting Philippine architecture from the
19th to the 20th century.
Beyond the fact that these edifices have successfully
established a contemporary style of architecture that
was extremely Philippine in image and character, the
creation of standard designs for one-storey schoolhouses
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William Parsons Juan Arellano Tomas Mapua
Source: Philippine Institute of Architects’ Source: Philippine Institute of Architects,
Gold Medal of Merit Award, Joel Rico, 70 Years of History, Joel Rico, Ramon Zaragoza and
PIA Publishing, 2015 Ernesto Zarate, Adarna Publishing, 2003
ranging from modest one-room structures to large school
buildings of over 20 rooms is archeologically significant
Old class photo from Ozamiz City Central School,
to the history of Philippine architecture and education. Misamis Occidental, circa 1927-1928
Source: DepEd Region 10, Ozamiz City
The unified construction components of the Gabaldon
schoolhouses allowed the attainment of uniform
quality standards, operative cost control, proficiency
of construction, and principally guaranteed that
the completed schoolhouse was to be the most
comfortable and ideal educational setting in harmony
with the tropical climate.
The standardized designs and precise building
specifications of Gabaldon schoolhouses were
consistent and compelling that they pushed the
construction of a large number of schoolrooms in
a short span of time. Though underrated among
Philippine heritage structures, these schoolhouses
are constant and ageless examples of truly living
up to their original use and purpose, not only in
functionality but with their aesthetic genius as well.
With a thousand and a hundred memories breathing
through its walls and windows, Gabaldon schoolhouses
hold great historical, cultural, architectural, and social
significance to the Philippines. As living testaments
of the past, they serve as reminders that public school
education was and will always be available to every
Filipino child.
 Birth of a Legacy:
Gabaldon Law Through the Years

I sauro Gabaldon, an education activist and former

Governor of Nueva Ecija, authored Act 1801 or
“Gabaldon Law,” which was implemented on December
20, 1907. The law specified that every municipality
must be allocated one million pesos for the construction
of Gabaldon schoolhouses with strong materials from
all over the Philippines.

The law also stated that Gabaldon schoolhouses must

be erected only upon the ownership of the municipality
or if the land was donated. Three thousand Gabaldon
schoolhouses were constructed nationwide from
1907 to 1946, which became the foundation of the
Philippine public education system. Today, around
1,575 Gabaldon schoolhouses still exist, but the
majority of these are suffering deterioration.

After World War II, many Gabaldon schoolhouses were

heavily damaged. This prompted the Senate and House
of Representatives of the United States of America to
pass the Philippine Rehabilitation Act of 1946 which
allotted funds for the restoration of public property,
including public school buildings.

These school buildings hold great historical, cultural,

and social significance to the Philippines and are still
present for educational purposes, hence, in January
2018, President Rodrigo Roa Duterte signed R.A.
No. 11194 also known as “Gabaldon School Buildings
Conservation Act.’’ The law states that all Gabaldon
school buildings are recognized as built heritage and as
such are covered under R.A. No. 10066 or “National
Cultural Heritage Act of 2009.”
Under R.A. No. 11194, the DepEd—as lead agency—
must implement a program for the identification
and conservation of all Gabaldon school buildings
nationwide, in consultation with the National
Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA), the
National Historical Commission of the Philippines
(NHCP), and the National Museum (NM).
For this purpose, an inventory of Gabaldon
schoolhouses and other heritage school buildings,
whether fully functional or condemned must be
undertaken to determine the physical status of each
Official Gazette for the Construction of the
Gabaldon Schools
structure. On the whole, the main objective is to
conserve Gabaldon schoolhouses by any of these
methods: preservation, restoration, reconstruction,
protection, or adaptation. Moreover, the law states
that any unauthorized modification, alteration,
destruction, demolition, or relocation of Gabaldon
school buildings are strictly prohibited.
Through the years, the Gabaldon schoolhouses have
been witness to the development of the public education
system in the Philippines. These living testaments have
housed, nurtured, and produced outstanding learners
who have given invaluable contributions and pride to
the nation. All said, the legacy of the Gabaldon law
continues and is very much alive. Isauro Gabaldon

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 DepEd in Action:
Pioneering the Largest Conservation
Project in Philippine History

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 The number of Gabaldon Schoolhouses per island group
are 733 in Luzon, 714 in Visayas, and 340 in Mindanao

Tayasan Central School, Negros Oriental

G abaldon schoolhouses all over the country have stood over a century and have
seen and experienced significant moments in Philippine history. Though
adapted to the country’s tropical environment, many of these have not been
With the support and assistance from government
institutions, DepEd is taking all necessary measures
to classify and preserve the remaining Gabaldon
an accurate number of schoolhouses nationwide.
Each team is led by an architect or an engineer.
The team leader evaluates the physical condition
and structural integrity of the Gabaldons and
schoolhouses in all regions. These include the
spared by nature’s wrath and the effects of war that has led to their deterioration three cultural agencies – the NCCA, the NHCP, provides the necessary recommendations for their
and the NM; together with the Department of the improvement. The photographer/videographer/
or destruction. Interior and Local Government (DILG) and Local drone operator ensures that schoolhouses and
Government Units, the Department of Environment facilities are well documented with high-quality
Cognizant of Gabaldon schoolhouses’ importance structural integrity. In March 2018, the Office of and Natural Resources (DENR), and the Department photos, videos, and aerial coverage. Lastly, the
to Filipino education and culture, the DepEd— the Undersecretary for Administration (OUA), of Public Works and Highways (DPWH). team has a writer who conducts interviews and
under the leadership of Secretary Leonor Magtolis through the Education Facilities Division (EFD), collects all available documents and information
Briones—took the initiative to preserve their officially introduced the Gabaldon Schoolhouses Under the auspices of the OUA, five Gabaldon teams needed to determine the school’s local and
original architectural features and reinforce their Restoration and Conservation Program. were formed to evaluate, document, and provide national historical significance.

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 Inspection of the recently restored Laoag Central School.
To date, the Gabaldon Inspectorate Team has
visited and evaluated 550 schools across 35
provinces. Gabaldon schoolhouses follow a certain
design type based on the prescribed number of
rooms. The most common type seen by the team
contain three (3) to four (4) rooms. There are rare
types as well, such as two-storey schoolhouses, and
those with only one (1) room.
Based on the inspection teams, many of the schoolhouses
retained their original architectural character. Their
defining features such as the intricate fretworks or
calados, awning-type Capiz windows, wide corridors,
and wooden walls can still be observed to this day.
These structures were solely used to hold classes,
but now some serve as offices and venues for various
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school activities. According to several school officials
and alumni, the schoolhouses’ social halls are used for
events including local and national elections, academic
competitions, seminars, and trainings.
Given the schoolhouses’ old age, some had undergone
major modifications over the years, while others
either caught fire, were demolished, or were
replaced. The previous administration led by the
former DepEd Secretary Armin Luistro has made
a huge effort to restore around 200 Gabaldon
schoolhouses nationwide. Considered as one of his
great accomplishments during his term, Bro. Luistro,
commenced this conservation advocacy and headed
the making of the coffee table book featuring the
Philippine Heritage Schools. DepEd Secretary Leonor Magtolis Briones,
Usec. Alain Del B. Pascua and Arch. Joel V. Rico led the
inspection and documentation of the Gabaldon Building
17 in North City Elementary School, Dumaguete City.

Usec. Alain Del B. Pascua discusses the plan for Gabaldon schoolhouses all
over the country with Secretary Briones and the Conservation Team, along
with Lino Atienza, Secretary General, Dakilang Pamana ng Lahi (PAMANLAHI)
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Damage assessment after the July 2019 earthquake in Itbayat, Batanes.
The restoration of heritage school buildings continues
until the present administration. Under the leadership
of Secretary Briones, there are about 260 restored
Gabaldon schoolhouses since 2018, a count of 192
on-going restoration, and 88 Gabaldon buildings
which are under procurement to date.
Moreover, the teams target to publish books on the
history of school building types.
Many Filipinos now simply know Gabaldon
schoolhouses as old scary buildings. However, this
common notion only trivializes their value to Philippine
history and education. While it is true that many of these
schoolhouses served as headquarters of the Japanese
Imperial Army and graveyard for countless soldiers,
they also served as a second home to personalities who
shaped the country’s image and future.
Several top dignitaries, world champions, distinguished
artists and professionals trace their humble beginnings
to these heritage school buildings. The list includes
remarkable national figures such as former
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Ambassador Bienvenido Tantoco Sr., the late Senator
Miriam Defensor Santiago, and late President
Diosdado Macapagal.
The Gabaldon Schoolhouses Restoration and
Conservation Program not only safeguards the
schoolhouses’ appearance and functionality but also
guarantees that more Filipinos will be made aware
of their pivotal role in shaping the nation’s public
school system. Moreover, it hopes to instill—among
the younger generation—that sense of place and pride
and for them to treasure their time in these historical
edifices as much as their ancestors did.
Without a doubt, the Gabaldon schoolhouses have
become an integral part of the country’s heritage,
symbolizing the Filipinos’ timeless resilience and
elegance even in the darkest of days. The country’s
largest conservation initiative for heritage buildings
by far, the Gabaldon Schoolhouses Restoration and
Conservation Programendeavors to ensure that the
identity of the Filipino nation is forever honored,
valued, and never forgotten.
 “We want the students to see the schoolhouses as “Based on the inspections, it was found out that

DepEd’s repositories of their childhood recollections. We hope

they will value the historical structures as much as
their ancestors did,” Pascua said.
many of the schoolhouses retained their architectural
character,” Pascua reported. DepEd used the
information from the field as guide in planning and

Gabaldon Schoolhouses Restoration

and Conservation Program
Infusing Fresh Vigor
In 2013, Education Secretary Brother Armin Luistro
started the renovations of Gabaldon schoolhouses.
“Education is about connecting with the stories of the
past. Education is about passing on the core values and
knowledge of the past,” he said.
“Almost every school division has an old building that
brings with it many stories of the past. Many parts of
our history are conjoined with these campuses and
school buildings,” he explained.
In 2015, DepEd reported that 1,446 Gabaldons were
still standing. Some were undergoing repairs after
receiving funds from the Department. Since then,
DepEd has compiled a comprehensive list and map of
the schoolhouses.
Searching the Ruins
When President Rodrigo Duterte assumed his post on
June 30, 2016, he appointed academician, public finance
expert, and civil servant Leonor “Liling” Magtolis
Briones as Education Secretary. Under her leadership,
DepEd intensified the campaign to breathe new life
into the Gabaldons.
The Gabaldons are particularly special to
Secretary Briones. “Gabaldon Schoolhouses very
much remind me of my education in a time when
life was simpler, though not without struggle,” she
recalled.
“These structures have taken on a greater life and
meaning. More than conveying the importance of
learning, they stand to remind us of everyone’s right to
education, and to fulfill that right - our very mandate –
for every Filipino child,” Briones emphasized.
The Secretary vowed to champion the conservation of
Gabaldons nationwide. She did not want superficial
repairs and facelifts. She ordered the full restoration of
all the schoolhouses.
Surveying the Conditions and
Gathering Historical Facts
Secretary Briones directed Undersecretary for
Administration Alain Del B. Pascua to undertake
the restoration and conservation program for the
Gabaldon schoolhouses. Undersecretary Pascua started
the program by determining the conditions of the
Gabaldons all over the Philippines.
In March 2018, the Office of the Undersecretary
for Administration (OUA) through the Education
Facilities Division (EFD) led by Chief Engr.
Annabelle Pangan and Assistant Chief Engr. Marjorie
Tiburcio formulated the Gabaldon Heritage Schools
Restoration and Conservation Project. Undersecretary
Pascua immediately organized five Gabaldon teams
each consisting of an engineer or architect, a writer,
and a photographer/videographer/drone operator
to evaluate, document, and update the number
of schoolhouses. Undersecretary Pascua recruited
Architect Joel Rico, a heritage restoration architect,
former president of Philippine Institute of Architects
and president of Guild of Philippine Architects in
Conservation, as consultant and leader of the teams.
The group conducted validation and complete
documentation of all Gabaldons. These involved
identifying the originality and ingenuity of their
designs, current uses, and conditions.
decision-making.
Regaining National Attention
Upon the signing of Republic Act Number 11194
titled Gabaldon School Buildings Conservation
Act, local government units that have jurisdiction
over the schoolhouses were instructed to “adopt
measures for the protection and conservation of
these structures.” The law cautioned that “any
modification, alteration, destruction, demolition,
or relocation of Gabaldon school buildings shall be
strictly prohibited.”
Weighing Resources
In 2015, DepEd under Secretary Luistro obtained a
budget of P322 million and was able to renovate 40
Gabaldons.

20 21

Scan the QR code to
watch an overview about
the DepEd Gabaldon
Schoolhouses Restoration
and Conservation Program.
22 23
In 2016, with Briones at the helm, the Department
received a relatively small amount of P60 million in the
beginning. The fund restored 10 buildings. In 2017, the
Secretary requested more funds from Congress. DepEd
was able to get P300 million. The money went to the
rehabilitation of 37 structures. The surge in budget was
due to the inclusion of the Gabaldon School Restoration
and Conservation Program into the Annual General
Appropriations Act, starting that year.
In 2018, the allocation rose to P1.9 billion. The amount
was spent on the reconstructing 278 Gabaldons. That
year marked the biggest number of buildings rebuilt
over a given period so far. In 2019, the fund reached P2
billion, enabling DepEd to rehabilitate an additional
193 schoolhouses.
Fighting the Coronavirus
In 2020, the conservation budget decreased to P999 million.
Simultaneously, the project was temporarily stopped due to
the COVID-19 pandemic. When the pandemic eases, DepEd
is targeting to complete the restoration of 128 Gabaldons.
42 of these schoolhouses are now being renovated, 20 are
under procurement, and 66 are still pending.
As of January 2021, within a period of 4 years from
2016 to 2019, Deped has fully rebuilt a total of 544
Gabaldons.
Handing Over A Masterpiece
When learners have been vaccinated and the threat
of COVID-19 is gone, they will return to the schools
for face-to-face classes. Just as little Liling (Secretary
Briones) went to school after the World War 2, the
students will gaze upon Gabaldons and marvel at the
majesty, simplicity, and brilliance that the edifices
depict. The Gabaldons that were constructed more than
a century ago have lived through a foreign invasion,
numerous periods of turbulence, and calamities.
The structures are the bedrock of the Philippine public
education system. With countless memories breathing
through their walls, they hold great architectural,
historical, cultural, and social significance. The
Gabaldons are a testament to the Filipinos’ resolve to
uphold the right of every child to education and quality
of life under any circumstance, notwithstanding a
world war or even a pandemic.
Excerpt from the article by
DepEd Undersecretary Alain Pascua as published in “The
American Colonial Public School Buildings in the Philippines”
Coffee Table Book of the NCCA and UAP
 It was a major milestone for the DepEd
The Making of the and all heritage advocates when the
Gabaldon School Buildings Conservation
Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR) Act or R.A. 11194 was signed by
President Rodrigo Roa Duterte on
and Conservation Guidelines 18 January 2019.
for Gabaldon Schoolhouses

Hijo Elementary School Compostela Valley

24 25
 With the IRR in place, the conservation
of Gabaldon schoolhouses is assured, Links to Gabaldon
preserving not only their function but and Heritage
also their original character and spirit, Building Videos
and the vital roles they played, and
Philippine School for the Deaf
will be playing, in the development of
Pasay City
Philippine education. School ID: 120681
Year Constructed/Established: 1907

OUA Consultants, EFD staff, and select Regional and Division Engineers during Phase 1 of the
T he Act mandates the conservation of more than
a thousand Gabaldon schoolhouses erected in
different parts of the country, with DepEd as lead,
Workshop (March 2019) and in consultation and coordination with cultural
agencies and other concerned government institutions.

The Education Facilities Division (EFD) was

immediately tasked by the OUA to start the
formulation of the IRR for the Conservation Act.

Headed by EFD, three workshops were conducted to

craft the Gabaldon IRR. Phase 1 was held in Malate,
Manila on March 11-14, 2019, Phase 2 was held in
Mandaluyong City on June 17 -21, 2019, and Phase 3
was held in Angeles City, Pampanga on September
9- 13, 2019. The workshops were attended by the
Gabaldon inspectorate and documentation teams,
OUA consultants, select DepEd regional and division
engineers, EFD staff, and representatives from the
three cultural agencies (NHCP, NCCA, and NM) as San Isidro Central School
well as from the DPWH, DILG, and DENR.
San Isidro Nueva Ecija
After consultations and additional refinements, School ID: 105687
DepEd submitted the final draft of the Gabaldon Year Constructed/Established: 1902
IRR to the government agencies concerned for their
concurrence and approval. This is important as it
ensures that respective roles of agencies complement
Discussion during Phase 2 of the Workshop on the Preparation of the IRR of the Gabaldon Law (June 2019) and are consistently aligned with the overall
conservation effort.

In brief, the Gabaldon IRR sets forth the scope

of works, preventive maintenance to be observed,
and—as necessary—the recommended alternative
materials and architectural finishes. It also establishes
the criteria for Gabaldon project selection based on
percentage points on structural integrity, architectural
character, historical and cultural significance, and
number of classrooms.

With the IRR in place, the conservation of Gabaldon

Discussion led by Architect Rico and Engr. Luis Purisima, Assistant Chief of the EFD, schoolhouses is assured, preserving not only their
Engr. Annabelle Pangan with the participants discussing the contents of the draft IRR with function but also their original character and spirit,
of Phase 2 of the Workshop. other agency participants such as NHCP, and the vital roles they played, and will be playing, in
(June 2019) NCCA, DENR, and DPWH. (September 2019) the development of Philippine education.

26 27
Continuing Challenges of
Gabaldon School Buildings

28 29
 Manual of Conservation
and Restoration
of Gabaldon and
Other Heritage
School Buildings

30 31
 Dr. Celedonio A. Salvador Elementary School, Manila
T he Visual Guide for the Conservation of Gabaldon Heritage Schoolhouses
is envisioned to provide the needed architectural, historical, scientific, and
engineering assistance for the all government agencies concerned. The visual
conservation plan includes proper construction methods, techniques, materials
substitution, and preventive maintenance of various Gabaldon typologies across
the country.
32
San Isidro Elementary School, Nueva Ecija
Over the period of on-site assessment activities for
the remaining Gabaldon schools nationwide, several
public school buildings were identified and classified to
properly determine the correct restoration strategy to
be used and its respective building material typology.
The vernacular structures made of corals and
limestones in Batanes; brick schools in the Ilocos
33
Region; wooden Gabaldon structures and various
adaptively reused old buildings converted to public
schoolhouses; as well as the different architectural
styles that influenced our country, and played a
significant role in the evolving appearance of public
school buildings (e.g., Beaux Arts details, elegant
neoclassic style, art deco geometries) all add to the
charm of our heritage.
 Bogo Elementary School, Bogo, Maria, Siquijor Lala Proper Central School, Lala, Lanao del Norte
Source: DepEd Gabaldon Conservation Archives

This conservation visual guide will be a benchmark
publication for DepEd in terms of the comprehensive
and practical guides on methods of restoration and its
adherence to heritage and architectural accuracy as
well as to public safety.
The unity of traditional building methods and materials
with modern alternative construction system will
play an enduring role in the sustainable conservation
direction for the generations to come.
DepEd possesses a huge number of heritage structures
in the country, and this proper restoration and
conservation guide will help ensure that these treasured
structures live to tell their story to future generations.
“Gabaldon Schoolhouses” is a traditional term to
collectively describe and identify pre-war public
school buildings across the country regardless of its
architecture, geography, typology, materials, and even
its period of construction. We profoundly identify them
as historical, and of cultural and heritage significance
in both its local and national context.
Some of the early great Filipinos from heroes,
Philippine presidents, national artists, Olympians,
senators, congressmen, sports icons, celebrities, and
other historical figures—local and international—were
at some point students at public schools and used the
Gabaldon structures that stood prominently at the
entrance of any school complex.
Between 1907 and 1912, through the Gabaldon
Act, all prescribed school buildings were made
up of wood, metal sheets, Capiz windows, and
others. Illustrations of its floor plans, elevations,
sections, and details were published by the Bureau
of Education in 1912 to serve as the guidebook or
construction manual for those typologies.
However, because of geographical consideration and
materials availability, some school buildings were
not constructed according to the 1912 Construction
Manual. School buildings in other parts of the
country used their abundant local and indigenous
construction materials and utilized their traditional
methods of construction, such as in the schools in
Batanes, Ilocos Region, Bohol, Sulu, Cotabato, and
Lanao, to name a few.
The various architectural styles that influenced our
country later played a significant role in the evolving
appearance of our public-school buildings—the
vernacular and the traditional Filipino style, the artistic
Beaux Arts details, the elegant Neoclassic style, the Art
Deco geometries and more, added to the charm of the
structures that hosted some of the historic events that
transpired in our country.
The Department of Education has in its possession
one the largest number of heritage structures in the
country today, almost 2,000 structures that define our
race, from the still existing Spanish Era Escuelas to
the other pre-war rebuilt and adaptively reused public
schoolhouses nationwide.
Here are some of the classifications of the
Gabaldon School buildings that are made popular
by distinct architectural designs and architects,
geographical origin, vernacular identity, nature of
original functions, and other historical and cultural
considerations.

34 35
Gabaldon School Building Classification and Typology

Basco Central School, Basco, Batanes

36 37
 Itbud Elementary School, Itbud, Batanes
Batanes Type
Located in the northernmost part of the country, the
island clusters of Batan, Itbayat, and Sabtang hold a
distinct type of vernacular architectural tradition.
It also followed the prescribed classroom dimension
(7x9 meters) mandated by the Bureau of Education
in 1912, but with totally different architectural form
and materials.
The builders from Itbayat extensively used
“processed” limestones, while locals from Batan
and Sabtang used coral stones and lime. Buildings
are designed with almost one-meter thick exterior
walls, wooden trusses, one-foot thick cogon grass
roof, wood paneled capiz windows, and thick door
panels. However, their floorings are not raised
from the ground.
38
Architecture in the Batanes group of islands is designed
to withstand strong gusts of wind and heavy typhoons
that frequent the island clusters. Their distinct type
of architectural ancestry and methods of construction
are believed to originate from the southern parts of
Taiwan and Japan.
However, earthquakes in Itabayat in July 2019 have
destroyed several of the vernacular-inspired school
buildings. Structures have also been damaged by frequent
typhoons. Because of the lack of forested areas that can
be a source of hardwood for trusses and the extreme
navigational difficulty in delivering materials, the
traditional thick cogon roofs were replaced by flat concrete
slabs. This often added another level to the old structures,
adding floor space and maximizing construction cost. Itbayat Central School, Itbayat, Batanes (after July 2019 earthquake)
39

Undersecretary Alain Pascua discussing the immediate plan for the restoration of the
Dean Leopoldo Yabes Memorial Elementary School in Sinait, Ilocos Sur.
Spanish Ilocos Type
Located in the northern part of Luzon, the Ilocos Region
was once the capitol of the old Spanish settlement called
Nueva Segovia. The region does not have the abundance
of adobe stones, but because of its coastal location,
early construction materials were made of coral and
limestone. Later, the production of brick or ladrillo was
perfected and made in all shapes and sizes.
The Spanish built their structures with thick exterior
walls, interior posts and trusses from timber logs, capiz
windows, paneled doors, simple gabled cogon roof, and
lime plaster painted with ochre pigment, assigned by
the Spanish monarch for the region.
40
San Ildefonso Central
School, San Ildefonso,
Ilocos Sur
Dadalquiten
Elementary School,
Sinait, Ilocos Sur
After the discovery of brickmaking, Spanish
designers were able to build longer and taller
structures because of the inherent seismic character
of the building material. Vigan tiles became the
popular floor finishing material or San Esteban
stones abundant in the region.
Today, only few Spanish Spanish Ilocos Type are still
being used. Most of these structures are in advance
stage of collapse or neglect. The scarcity of coral/
brick materials, lumbers, and financial allocation have
become a challenge in the continuous preservation of
these colonial structures.
41
 TOP: Ozamiz Central School, Ozamiz City TOP: Paaralang Timog Sentral ng Sto. Domingo, Ilocos
BOTTOM: Pilar I Central School, Sorsogon BOTTOM: Doyong Elementary School, Pangasinan

Gabaldon Parsons Type
These buildings were designed between 1907 to 1912
by William Parsons, an American architect, from the
allocation of the Gabaldon Act. The structures range
from one (1) classroom to 15 or more. These are generally
rectangular in shape with plan variations of “H”, “O”, “U”,
and “8”, to name a few. Their typology would depend on
the number of classrooms (e.g., Plan 2 has 2 classrooms).
A published construction guidebook in 1912 titled
Plans, Specifications, and Bills of Material for Standard
Revised School Buildings of the Bureau of Education,
shows Plans 1 to 15.
Originally raised by 3 feet (≈ 0.90m) from the natural
ground line, the concrete foundation was excavated
to a depth of more than a meter with iron straps to
connect the wooden post. It also has wooden exterior
and interior walls, floorings, doors, ceiling, trusses,
fretworks, capiz windows, and paneled door. This is
topped with metal roof sheets, exhaust drums, and
wooden slits for ventilation.
All wooden components are applied with linseed oil
to protect the wood from sun and rain damage and to
enhance the natural beauty of the wood. Later, exterior
and interior walls were finished with lacquer paint.
This is the widely popular type of public school
building all across the country. Though not the most
architecturally appealing, it is one of the most enduring
school buildings. The rarest of its type is the Plan 1
or single classroom. Several modifications were the
replacement of wooden exterior panels and flooring to
concrete, capiz windows to glass or wood jalousies, or
even aluminum sliding.
This type of old public school is the popular and
identifiable Gabaldon building for us today.

42 43
 Negros Occidental High School, Bacolod City
Gabaldon Doane Type (Pasig Type)
Some of the most elegant types of Gabaldon
schoolhouses were designed by Ralph Harrington
Doane. These were later modified by Tomas Mapua
from 1915 onwards. The Doane Type inspired his
design of the old Executive House Building in
Malacañang Complex in Manila.
Built in more progressive municipalities, the
Doane Type is originally raised by 3 feet (≈ 0.90m)
from the ground, in a standard square or U-shape
44
with central courtyard for garden or playground,
highlighted by a series of semicircular arches on top
of circular columns with simple Doric or Tuscan
capitals, flanked by simple Beaux-Arts wall details.
It is constructed of concrete columns, walls and
floors; with wooden trusses and metal roofing sheets.
Normal School, Legaspi, Albay Province, circa 1914
Not many of this type were built because of its artistic Source: School Buildings, Plans, Specifications and Bill of Materials for Standard Revised School Buildings of the
and design complexity, and financial limitations. Bureau of Education, Bureau of Printing, Manila
45
 Batangas City National High School
Memorial Type
The Memorial Type was designed by Juan Marcos
Arellano, the Supervising Architect of the Bureau
of Public Works in 1925. This type has four (4)
classrooms and is usually filled with classical
elements and sculpted busts.
Through the combined use of concrete and
wood components, the Memorial Type is best
characterized by its symmetry and balance.
It is constructed as a memorial dedicated to a
46
prominent national personality as in the case
of Marcelo H. Del Pilar Memorial School in
Bulacan, Bulacan, the birthplace of the eminent
Filipino revolutionary propagandist during the
Spanish Era.
Another similar plan and classroom arrangement
but with simpler façade was also designed by
Arellano in the 1920s and was extensively used in Cayetano Arellano Memorial School, Orion, Bataan
other parts of the country. Source: DepEd Gabaldon Conservation Archives
47
 Iloilo National High School, Iloilo City
Beaux-Arts Type
The Beaux-Arts Type is the grandest among all
Galabdon typologies. Designed by Tomas Mapua,
this Gabaldon typology is characterized by Greek
and Roman art details (i.e., bas relief, cartouche,
pilaster, pediment, dentils, frieze, brackets, wrought
iron brackets, pedestals, garlands, Solomonic
columns, etc.). This designe is highlighted by
graceful sculptural elements and symmetrical form
and balance.
48
This type is usually constructed 3 feet (≈ 0.90m) above the
ground, “O” or “U” shape in plan with central courtyard
for cross ventilation. It combines concrete and wood
materials, with capiz windows and paneled doors.
The Beaux-Arts typology was both architecturally and
financially challenging to build, and only a handful of
this type were built and conserved in the major cities
in the country.
49
 San Fernando Central School, San Fernando, Pampanga, undated
Source: Handbook of the Philippine Islands, 1924, American Historical Collection

Mapua Type
Following simple Neoclassic style, the Mapua Type
was designed by the prominent Filipino architect,
Tomas Mapua, then working for the Architecture
Division of the Bureau of Public Works.
It is a combination of both concrete and wooden
materials. It follows a U-shape floor plan and
complex roof system.
Its balanced appearance is achieved through the
positioning of wooden square posts at the central
porch, flanking of solid walls on both sides,
installing of capiz windows, and placing of Beaux-
Arts moulding and pilaster details with Rose motif Zapatera Elementary School, Cebu City
on top of the windows. Source : DepEd Gabaldon Conservation Archives

50 51
 Looc Central Elementary School, Looc, Romblon
Art Deco Type
The Art Deco Type is also called a Marikina Type as it
follows the design of school buildings in the same city. It
is one of the simpler and clean-lined type of Gabaldon..
The Art Deco Type is usually built of concrete exterior
walls and wooden interior wall panels with geometric
calados or fretworks. The horizontal lines of the
building suggest its wide appearance.
52
This 5-classroom building has a distinct Art Deco-
inspired balustrade design and sunbreaker wall
geometric panels for cross ventilation. It has a
simple shed roof, oftentimes replaced by a concrete
roof slab.
Another rare Art Deco Type is the Emilio Jacinto
Elementary School in Tondo. Cuenca Central School, Cuenca, Batangas
53
 Candelaria Elementary School, Candelaria, Zambales

Romblon Type
The Romblon Type is another simple rectangular
building with four (4) classrooms, a front porch, and
a semi-circular arcaded façade. This simple concrete
school building with wooden paneled partitions and
calados is elevated from the ground.

It is called Romblon Type because of the similar form

built in the entire province island of Romblon.
However, this style is also popular in other parts of
the country. Odiongan Central School, Romblon Tayasan Central Elementary School, Tayasan, Negros Oriental

54 55
 Cervantes Central Elementary School, Ilocos Sur
Adaptive Reuse School Type
This type of school building was not originally
designed to serve as learning spaces. The DepEd over
the years has allowed several structures in the country
to be used for classes or other educational purposes.
This is the case of the twin chapels of Santa Maria
in Ilocos Sur. It pre-dates the construction of the
Sta. Maria Church, one prestigious UNESCO World
Heritage Site. In 1977, the LGU of Sta. Maria allowed
the use of the ruined chapel to become the Sta. Maria
Central Elementary School.
Other repurposed structures for adaptive reuse include
the Spanish military outpost in the coastal town
of Dadalaquiten in Ilocos Sur, now Dadalaquiten
Elementary School; the old Spanish Tabacalera
56
Prudencia Fule Ancestral House used as a schoolhouse as a joint project of DepEd and NHCP
(Tobacco processing building) in Aparri now Mininga
Elementary School; the former Spanish Presidencia
(municipal building) in Ilocos Sur, now Cervantes
Central School; the former mansion of Doña Prudencia
Fule in San Pablo City, now part of the Prudencia
Fule Elementary School; and the unfinished Dagupan
City Hall inside the Dagupan High School designed
by National Artist in Visual Arts and proud son of
Dagupan, Victorio Edades.
The restoration and conservation of these structures
require the preparation and submission of a
Conservation Plan to the NHCP and issuance of
the No Objection Certificate from any of the country’s
cultural agencies. Sta. Maria Central School, Sta. Maria, Ilocos Sur
57
 Magsaysay Central School, Digos City, Davao

Two-Storey Type
One of the earliest two-storey public school
buildings is the Legarda Elementary School in
Sampaloc, Manila. The French Revival-style building
was designed by award-winning architect, Andres
Luna de San Pedro. He is the son of national painter
and revolutionary leader, Juan Luna. The school
was donated to the City of Manila in 1922 by the
family of Don Benito Legarda. Through the years,
it has been regarded as one of the most popular and
beautiful public school buildings in the country.
Since then, several two-storey school buildings were
also erected with various architectural elements
such as Laoag Central Elementary School in 1927,
Romblon West Central School, the post-war Gumaca
East Central School, Nueva Ecija High School, Cebu
High School, Camarines Sur National High School,
Silay Elementary School, Silay North Elementary
School, and Magsaysay Central School in Digos City,
Davao del Sur.

58 59
 Top photo: Laoag Central School, Laoag City, Ilocos Norte
Bottom photos: Legarda Elementary School, Manila and
façade (left side) of Legarda Elementary School, Manila

60 61
 Upland Elementary School, Carcar, Cebu

Unique Architectural Type

This type of Gabaldon is architecturally unique, and only
a handful of school buildings belong to this category.
The list includes the one-storey building in Carcar
Elementary School in Cebu and Kuguita Elementary
School in Mambajao, Camiguin, among others.
This type was never repeated or copied in other
parts of the country, unlike other Gabaldon
typologies. They are uniquely designed in their
respective localities.
Baylao Elementary School. Mambajao, Camiguin

62 63
 USAFFE Commanding Officer Gen. Douglas MacArthur at the balcony of West Central School in Surrender of US Troops led by Gen. Wainright to Japanese Imperial Army General Homma in 1941
Dagupan, Pangasinan for the Liberation of Luzon and Manila in 1945 at the Balanga Central Elementary School in Balanga, Bataan.
Source: West Central Elementary School Dagupan City Conservation Plan, Department of Education, 2019 Source: US Army in World War 2, The War in the Pacific, The Fall of the Philippines. Louis Morton, 1953

Historical School Type

Several public school buildings witnessed some of the
most important historical events in the country.
The design of the historical school can be a typical
Gabaldon, or could date back to the Spanish period.
It could also be a structure not originally designed as a
school building, but later acquired by the DepEd and
used as a learning facility.
Such is the case of the former Casa Hacienda de Naic in
Cavite during the Spanish era. It was where Katipunan
Supremo Andres Bonifacio and his brother Procopio
were imprisoned after their capture by the soldiers
of Emilio Aguinaldo in 1897. It was later donated to
become Naic Elementary School. A small museum now
stands at the exact site where they were incarcerated to
serve as a memorial for the Bonifacio brothers.
In Pangasinan, Dagupan West Central School’s
Home Economics Building served as the temporary
home of United States Army Forces in the Far
East (USAFFE) Supreme Commander General
Douglas McArthur after his triumphant return from
Australia to liberate the Philippines in 1945.
In Bataan, Balanga Central Elementary School served
as the site of American troops’ surrender to the
Japanese Imperial Army in 1942.
The restoration and conservation of these structures
The former Hacienda de Naic was built by the Dominican Order in the middle of the 19th century
require the preparation and submission of a during the Spanish Era. It played a profound role during the Philippine Revolution. It was here that
Conservation Plan to the NHCP and issuance of the Supremo Andres Bonifacio was imprisoned by Revolutionary President Emilio Aguinaldo in 1897
No Objection Certificate from any of the cultural agencies before attending his trial in the nearby town of Maragondon where he was sentenced to death.
(NCCA, NHCP or NM). Source: DepEd Gabaldon Conservation Archives

64 65
 Cadunan Elementary School, Mabini (Doña Alicia), Compostela Valley
Wooden Type
Generally, all pre-war public school buildings were
made of wooden elements. However, the Wooden Type
classification is one entirely made of hardwood (e.g., posts,
pedestals, beams, floors, ceilings, roof system, etc.).
It has a simple rectangular plan and gable-type roof.
This style was built in areas where lumber/logs are
abundant. In earlier times, it was the most practical
66
type of Gabaldon school due to the lower cost of
wood over concrete or bricks. Today, it is the most
challenging and expensive structure to restore because
of the nationwide log ban and the lack of available
good lumber in the market.
This type of school building is popular in Siquijor,
Rizal, Zambales, and other parts of our country. Magnaga Elementary School, Pantukan, Compostella Valley
67
 Lagawe SPED Center, Lagawe, Ifugao
Trade Schools
Trade schools, also called Artes y Oficios, were built
during the late Spanish period, which continued to
operate in the American period and beyond. These
offered vocational studies for the secondary public
school system to further enhance male students’
practical skills (e.g., carpentry, welding, technical
drawing, plumbing, etc.).
68
Trade schools are usually two-storey wooden structures
with large open working spaces for machineries and
tools for hands-on learning.
Some of the original and existing trade school
structures were designed by William Parsons and Tarlac School of Arts and Trade, circa 1946
Tomas Mapua. . Source: Tarlac State University, https://artemis.tsu.edu.ph
69
 Ivana Home Economics Building, Ivana, Batanes Old Sagay Elementary School, Sagay, Negros Occidental

Home Economics Building Industrial Arts/Agriculture Building

Home Economics (H.E.) buildings are auxiliary
structures that resemble typical Filipino houses in
smaller proportions. These are usually bungalows
or two-storey structures with living and dining
rooms, kitchens, and bedrooms. H.E. buildings
are used for teaching household chores, table
manners, sewing, and other practical skills for
female students.
These buildings played integral parts in the pre-
war public school system.
There are still existing H.E. buildings, especially
in the provinces, with varieties in the architectural
façade such as the Beaux-Arts Basco Elementary
School H.E. Building recently repurposed for
adaptive reuse as Culinary Museum of Batanes.
The Industrial Arts/Agriculture Building is a multi-
purpose structure that resembles our native kamalig
or storehouse. These are typically rectangular with
an open-plan design. It is here that basic studies for
carpentry, electrical, plumbing, agriculture, and
other industrial skills are taught to male students.
Carpentry and other industrial machines and tools
are integral parts of the building interior.
These are auxiliary structures that were original parts
the pre-war public school system and complex. These
structures still exist today, especially in the provinces.
Collectively, all of these public school heritage
structures embody the living and colorful history of
our country regardless of their history, former use, era
of construction, and even unique forms.

Himogaan Integrated School, Baybay, Cauayan Central Elementary School,

Southern Leyte Negros Occidental Interior, Industrial Arts Building, Old Sagay Elementary School, Sagay, Negros Occidental

70 71
 Structural Components

72 73
 Front colonnade of the
Dumaguete High School building,
Negros Oriental, circa 1914
Source: Quarterly Bulletin of the
Bureau of Public Works, Bureau of
Public Works Publication, 1915

As part of the 1912 Bureau of Education manual for the construction of public
schoolhouses, following are some specifications and available geographic
materials used.

It is worth noting that there were no electrical provisions in the early

schoolhouses as there was no electricity yet in almost all parts of the archipelago.
At the same time, simple latrine type toilets were used for sanitation.

T he structural provisions in the 1912 manual

became the basis for the construction of all
Gabaldon schoolhouses across the archipelago.
However, different regions, provinces, and cities
adopted different materials based on those available in
by the Bureau of Education in 1912, with concrete
footing dimensions of 0.80 x 0.80 meters, reinforced by
smooth/plain round bar of 10-12mm diameter.

The entire Gabaldon was raised from the ground with a

their respective areas.
Over the years, the structural part of schoolhouses have
been damaged by natural disasters such as earthquakes,
typhoons, fires, volcanic eruptions, and sometimes
human intervention.
Foundation/Footing and Pedestal
The original excavation would be from 1.00 to 1.20
meters below Natural Grade Line (NGL) as required
standard height of 0.90 meters to prevent flooding and
rat infestation.
Restoration Suggestions:
Concrete used during the early American Era
would not be as structurally dependable in todays’
provisions of the National Structural Code of
the Philippines; replacement of these structural
components is highly advised.

74 75
 (Refer to DepEd EFD structural design standards)

T&G Wall and Floor Conservation Detail

(Refer to DepEd EFD structural

design standards)

(Refer to DepEd EFD structural design standards)

Pedestal to Wood Post Conservation Detail
Post/Column
Wooden post varies from 0.20 x 0.20 meters to 0.30 x
0.30 meters. While hard wood such as Acacia will be
added after the pedestal up to the roof beam to support
the entire structure.
Restoration Suggestions:
Replace damaged wood posts/columns, if possible,
with the same hardwood species, or concrete or steel
components.
Roof beam and Truss Conservation Details
Floor and Roof Beams
Restoration Suggestions:
Floor beams, purlins, girders, roof beams, are all
made up of hardwood from Acacia, Balayong, In replacing damaged wood components, use the
and others depending on material availability in same or equivalent wood species, or steel framed
the area. beams and trusses.

76 77
School Buildings and Grounds: Bulletin No. 37 - 1912

Standard Plan
Standard Plan
Bldg. No. 1
Bldg. No. 12

This Plan is
designed
to meet the
requirements of
the larger trade
schools.

Standard Plan
Bldg. No. 2

Standard Plan
Bldg. No. 3

Standard Plan Bldg. No. 10

Standard Plan Bldg. No. 20

Standard Plan Bldg. No. 6 Standard Plan Bldg. No. 7 Standard Plan Bldg. No. 8

78 79
 Wall Materials

80 81
T he materials used in the different types of
Gabaldon schoolhouses and other heritage
structures vary especially in the construction
of exterior walls, depending on material availability
and abundance.
The following are the materials used:
1. Adobe or Volcanic Tuff was extensively used
in construction during the Spanish era due to its
widespread abundance and supply.
Cut into blocks and originally plastered with lime
powder, Adobe was a good source of strength in any
type of structure.
One example of its use is the fortress-like Mendez
Elementary School in Cavite that was built during the
1910s and still intact today.
Restoration Suggestion:
Generally, Adobe stone is still available in the market
today for replacement. Plaster all Adobe façade to
further protect the wall from molds.
2. Coral Stone or Gasang is abundant in seaside areas.
It was introduced during the Spanish Period and was
still used in the 1960s.
82
Cut into blocks, gasang is a good source of structural
strength for any structure but requires plastering and
proper drying before it can be used.
However, the harvest and use of coral stone as a
construction material is now prohibited by the DENR.
Schoolhouses in Ilocos Norte, Ilocos Sur, Batanes,
and Bohol used gasang as one of the primary building
materials.
Restoration Suggestion:
The use of coral stone as a construction material is
now prohibited due to it adverse effect on marine life.
However, several materials can be used as replacement
such as limestone and others with similar physical
characteristics.
3. Wood is considered to be the most extensively used
construction material from the Spanish to post-war era.
The most popular features of a typical Gabaldon
schoolhouse are wooden posts, columns, beams,
floors, trusses, windows, doors, and walls (both
interior and exterior).
Restoration Suggestion:
Wood is still being used as a building component
to this day. However, the use of hardwood has been
prohibited by the DENR. Only imported woods
(with inferior structural strength) are available in the
market today. If possible, replace all structural wood
components with steel, and architectural elements
with engineered wood.
4. Bricks or Ladrilyo is widely popular in the
Ilocos region and other parts of the country due to
the abundance of clayish soil. The process of brick
making started during the Spanish era and still
continues today.
Brick as a building material is a good structural
component that renders a distinctively heritage
architectural character. Some public schools used brick
as primary construction material.
Restoration Suggestion:
Due to its material characteristic, bricks or ladrilyo are
very much available in the market today for material
replacement.
5. Reinforced Concrete or Buhos is brought by
American engineers. Reinforced concrete was used
in the construction of Gabaldon schoolhouses from
1912 onwards as drawn and specified by American
architects and engineers nationwide. Its structural
benefits outweighed all existing construction materials
during that time.
83
From the structural foundation to columns and
floor beams, reinforced concrete has proven to be more
superior in terms of strength and durability for the
schoolhouses.
The Iloilo Central School, Negros Occidental Central
School, and Angeles Elementary School are some of the
finest examples constructed using this material.
Restoration Suggestion:
Reinforced concrete is a dependable structural
material used in any building construction. However,
in places near the sea, constantly check the structural
steel component as salty water and air speed up
deterioration and rusting.
6. River Stones were used as the primary construction
material due to their abundance in some areas. Stacked
on top of each other and bonded by cement mortar
or lime powder, river stones are denser and heavier as
compared to adobe and coral stones.
The use of the river stones today is being monitored
and regulated by the DENR.
Restoration Suggestion:
In some parts of the country, quarrying of river stones
is prohibited (e.g., Batanes). The supply of this material
varies nationwide.
 Architectural Elements

Philippine School for the Deaf, Pasay City

84 85
A s indicated and specified in the 1912 Bureau of Instructions Manual for
the construction of public schoolhouses, several architectural elements
were drawn and implemented for uniformity. However, the use of
distinct construction and architectural materials abundant in other regions was
allowed and encouraged.

By the 1920s and 1930s, the Architecture Division of the Bureau of Public Works
introduced several innovations to the early Gabaldon designs by providing an
architecturally-inspired façade and other changes, such as the following.

86 87
 T&G (Tongue and Groove) Plain cement Wooden stone cut

Machuca (colored cement floor tiles) Vigan tiles

Floor Ceiling
The original school floors are either wood T&G or plain cement finish, This was generally stone cut wood strips. It was later replaced by Lawanit
however, cement floors or Baldosa were later used in some parts of the country. Plywood and cement board panels.

88 89
Calado
There is only one fretwork design in the Gabaldon Manual in 1912, however,
through the years, several artistic fretworks or calado were used in some
Gabaldon schoolhouses.

90 91
 Capiz Casement

Glass Panel with Fixed Transom Glass Panel Awning Type, commonly used for
highland schools

Windows
Originally, Gabaldon schoolhouses designed by American architects had
wide wooden awning type capiz windows in almost the entire archipelago.
However, in the Cordillera, due to the scarcity of Capiz shells, they used glass
panels instead

Several window replacements through the years were wooden and glass
jalousie, steel framed windows, and aluminum sliding windows.
Arched Transom

92 93
 Special types of doors are used in Batanes and other areas.

Doors
The paneled wooden doors featured in the 1912 manual are topped with transoms.

94 95
 Chevron pattern

Balusters and Balustrades

Simple concrete balustrades were drawn as part of the original features of
the Gabaldon schoolhouses. However, these were later replaced by different
design variations such as precast balustrades.

96 97

San Fernando National High School, San Fernado, Pampanga
Wall Relief and Pilasters
One significant improvement to Gabaldons in the
1920s and 1930s was the addition of an artistic wall
relief to their 1912 façade; a Bas relief of Athena,
Greek goddess of Wisdom, was installed to express
beauty and knowledge, typical of Beaux-Arts
impressions.
98
Athena bas relief
Other relief designs were also introduced such as the
cornice-framed ventilation. Wooden Finials were
also introduced in some schools.
Cement pilasters were later introduced as a main
Beaux-Arts decorative feature of selected Gabaldons. Mabalacat Central School, Mabalacat, Pampanga
99
 Lala Proper Central School,
Lala, Lanao del Norte

San Isidro Central School, San Isidro, Nueva Ecija

Brackets
Steel and wooden brackets were also incorporated in the design around the
1920s onwards.

100 101
Wooden decorative roof finials were also introduced in some schools.
A simple end top chord design was also used.

Media Agua and Roof

Interior and Exterior Walls
Some schoolhouses were designed with either concrete or plain sheet Media
Agua for protection against rain and sun.

Galvanized; gauge 25 corrugated metal sheets were specified in the Gabaldon These are generally made up of paneled wood, but depending on the era,
Manual of 1912. some interior wall partitions used adobe, coral, or brick.

102 103
For standard wooden Gabaldon Firebrick (B22222)

Dasol Central Elementary School,

Dasol, Pangasinan
Saddle Brown Ivory White Floral White
(8B4513) (FFFFFO) (FFFAFO)

Building Paint

The application of building paints is the most

satisfying part of any restoration project. It instantly
beautifies and enhances the aesthetic appearance of any
structure, at the same time adding a layer of protective
covering to the wall surface. Different wall finishes
require different types of paint, chemical materials,
and applications, to achieve lasting surface protection.

104 105
For concrete and special type
Gabaldon
Firebrick (B22222)
Dutch White
(EFDFBB)

Upland Elementary School,

Carcar, Cebu
Ivory White Floral White
Saddle Brown (FFFFFO) (FFFAFO)
(8B4513)

Originally, linseed oil was used to protect

wooden elements, and it was only in the 1950s
that enamel paints were introduced to further
protect wooden parts.

106 107
 Preventive Maintenance

I n 2010, the National

Historical Commission of
the Philippines (NHCP)
issued a Standard and Guidelines
in Maintaining Historic Sites
and Structures. The guidelines
are based on best practices of
the NHCP over the years in
the maintenance of historic
structures all over the country.

The Maintenance Guidelines are as follows.

1. Conduct regular/periodic inspection and

recording at least every six (6) months, of the
present condition/s of the building structure and
its setting (roof, walls, floors, ceilings, columns,
beams, doors, windows, stairs, partitions, etc.),
noting changes from previous inspections made
such as: stone, concrete and masonry cracks,
wood decay, leaking roof, sagging beam or floor,
termite infestation, any noticeable deformation in
materials and construction, defects noticed after
an earthquake or flooding, etc.

2. Undertake immediate minor repair and

replacement for minor defects.

NOTE: For major defects that pose danger to lives

and properties, immediate preventive measures
and remedial works such as: shoring, temporary
supports, fencing, and rescue restoration shall be
necessary. Major intervention works such as rescue
restoration and major intervention are not part of
this “Maintenance Guidelines”. Professional help
will be needed.

3. Repair all damaged portions using like or

Eusebio Lopez Memorial Integrated School, Sagay City, Negros Oriental compatible methods and techniques available.

108 109

4. Replace only portions that are damaged. There
are however, other ways and means to retain
the original material, but with the integration
of modern and concealed reinforcements or
substitutes. The use of equivalent or substitute
may be resorted to if such equivalent or
substitute would be the most advantageous
option in terms of physical compatibility with
the original material.
5. Replace only those components that are beyond
repair.
110
6. Discard and dispose all debris and unwanted
materials immediately after removal.
7. Hire technical professionals to assist or guide
in the scope of work to be done. Hire trusted
and skilled craftsmen to execute the repair and
replacement works.
8. Prioritize works to be done relative to the
available funds. Place on top priority, all works
that will provide protection from weather,
dampness or excessive sunlight, strong wind, and
rain exposure.
Links to Gabaldon
and Heritage
Building Videos
Balanga Elementary School
Balanga City, Bataan
School ID: 104552
Year Constructed/Established: 1911
9. Remove ground plants alongside exterior walls to
prevent buildup of moisture inside stone walls.
10. Remove moss, lichens, and other biological
growths on walls while still small and its roots not
yet fully established.
11. Minor additions, adjustments and changes may
be undertaken if such additions, adjustments,
and changes are quite necessary for the needs
of the owner, and these will promote the
preservation and enhancement of the historic Dagohoy Central Elementary School
values of the property. Dagohoy, Bohol
School ID: 118223
Year Constructed/Established: 1938
111
 Mabini Central Elementary School, Davao de Oro

12. Replaster stone walls as necessary. Plasters and 17. Replace all worn out/hazardous electrical fixtures
Gabaldon Markers renders are protective skins of stone walls. and devices following national standards set by
Preventative Maintenance (from Gabaldon IRR)
the National Electrical Code of the Philippines. Preventive maintenance must be observed to
After completion
13. Schedule repainting and refinishing of the preserve and extend the life of Gabaldon school
of the restoration
exteriors and interiors of the edifice. Use 18. Improve fire protection and safety of edifice by buildings. These measures are as follows:
works, the DepEd
quality paint materials and chemicals for the providing property firewall; rehabilitation and
together with • Restore any damaged parts of the building
repainting works. upgrading of old electrical system, plumbing
the National using original materials or the prescribed
system and mechanical system; providing fire
Commission for alternative materials.
14. Improve weather protection of the old edifice by extinguishers, smoke and fire detectors, sprinkler
Culture and the
providing thermal insulation, roof ventilation; system, fire alarm system, etc. • Apply wood preservative and soil poisoning
Arts (NCCA),
National Historical bird screen; weather seals; roof paint coatings; annually which may be charged to the
Commission of the correct deficient roof drainage and ground 19. Maintain a minimal wall embedment for building Maintenance and Other Operating Expenses
Philippines (NHCP) drainage systems, etc. systems to be installed or added. (MOOE) or to the Capital Outlay.
and the National • Regular cleaning and repair of gutters,
Museum of the 15. Decommission and replace embedded electrical 20. Relieve old structures from excessive loads. downspouts, and area below raised floor (silong).
Philippines (NMP) wires and devices with surface-mounted conduit- Provide additional compatible supports for
wires and devices structures subjected to excessive loads. Avoid new • Painting/re-painting of the whole or parts of
shall install a commemorative brass marker.
structures to be carried by the old structure. They the building using the approved color scheme.
All restored Gabaldon buildings undertaken 16. Replace all open electric wires above ceiling should be isolated. • Trim overarching tree branches to prevent the
by DepEd shall be included in the NMP list of with cables following national standards deterioration of corrugated G.l. roofing sheets,
National Cultural Treasures. set by the National Electrical Code of the 21. Hire a qualified and certified Pest Control gutters, and downspouts.
Philippines. treatment applicator for quarterly treatment.

112 113

Frequently Asked Questions
1. If there is an existing obstruction at the façade of
the Gabaldon, such as stage, covered gymnasium,
buildings, plant box/es, covered path/ walkway, and
grotto, should these be demolished?
• Plant boxes, covered paths, grottos, stages, and
other minor structures obstructing the facade of
the Gabaldon must be demolished.
• Major infrastructures, like covered gymnasium
and building, however, must be evaluated for
relocation in order to satisfy the requirements
of laws.
2. Can PWD access ramps be added to Gabaldons
being restored? If there is an existing ramp added,
should this be demolished?
• PWD ramps are required to be located on the
side or back part of the Gabaldon building, not
in the front.
• Since Gabaldon is a restoration project, the
inclusion of PWD ramps is in accordance with the
Accessibility Law.
114
5. Should comfort rooms be removed in Gabaldon
• Some Gabaldon buildings may include PWD
ramps based on the design that will not alter the
façade of the Gabaldon building.
3. In the case of lower portions of Gabaldons that have
been converted into basement classrooms, should
these be demolished or restored?
• In general, the basement of Gabaldon buildings
should not be used for classroom purposes since
this are not fit for use as classrooms. Therefore, in
the conduct of restoration, careful planning for the
construction of additional classrooms to address
the shortage of such should be considered so that
once the Gabaldon is restored, learners should have
available standard classrooms for use. However,
6. Are there classifications of restoration?
the basement of the structures can be restored in a
more functional manner such as ancillary facilities.
4. Are school name signage allowed for Gabaldon
buildings?
• Yes, provided the signage will follow the standard size,
font, placement, background, color, and DepEd logo
Links to Gabaldon
and Heritage
Building Videos
Silay North Elementary School
Silay City, Negros Occidental
School ID: 117827
Year Constructed/Established:
1917 and 1931
buildings to be restored?
• Annex A Section 1.4 of the Implementing Rules
and Regulation of Gabaldon Law, R.A. No. 11194
states that:
“The architectural character and integrity of the
building must, as far as practicable, be maintained.
Accordingly, all extraneous ancillary structures
outside, directly attached or built inside and not part of
the original design must be removed. This shall include
stage, covered court, toilets, washing counter, storage
room, mural, covered walkways, plant boxes, and other
attached structures and fixtures.”
• The toilets may be constructed adjacent to the
existing Gabaldon building, provided its design
should be in accordance with same architectural
West Central Elementary School
features with Gabaldon building.
Burgos Street, Dagupan City, Pangasinan
School ID: 102152
• Yes, the following are the classifications for Year Constructed/Established: 1930s
restoration:
• Class 1 – fully restored
• Class 2 – restored with minor changes
• Class 3 – restored with major changes
• Class 4 – repainted heavily changed structure
115
 San Pedro Elementary School, Caraga, Davao Oriental
Gabaldon in Numbers:
Inventory, Accomplishment and Ways Forward
S
ince 2015, the EFD has been implementing
the necessary guidelines in the restoration
of damaged heritage structures. Based on the
2019-2020 National School Building Inventory
116
Total No. . No. of. No. of. No. of. No. of. No. of.
Project No. of of Bldg Bldg On Bldg Under Bldg yet Bldg %
CY Allocation Sites Bldg Completed Going Procurement Not started Reverted Completion
2017 300,000,000.00 37 37 37 - - - - 100.00%
2018 1,999,790,553.47 280 280 280 - - - - 100.00%
2019 2,060,447,999.04 260 260 259 - - - 1 99.62%
2020 999,998,799.27 124 128 88 39 - - 1 71.54%
2021 383,914,569.44 41 41 22 16 3 - - 53.66%
(NSBI) under the enhanced Basic Education
5,744,151,921.23 742 746 686 55 3 -2 2 84.96%
Information System (eBEIS), a total of 2,045
Gabaldon schoolhouses are still existing in 1,787 Table 1. Summary of Accomplishments under the
schools nationwide. Gabaldon Heritage School Building Program as of April 30, 2020
117
 Good Condition For Condemnation Needs Major Repair Needs Minor Repair A total of P5.36 billion was appropriated for the last


(Less on-going and programmed
projects after NSBI 2019 cut-off)
three (3) years in the General Appropriations Act Links to Gabaldon
(GAA) for this purpose.
Region No. of Sites No. of. Bldgs. No. of Sites No. of. Bldgs. No. of Sites No. of. Bldgs. No. of Sites No. of. Bldgs.
Once the restoration of these buildings is completed,
and Heritage
ARMM 1 2 6 6 18 20 10 11 a total of 705 Gabaldon schoolhouses can be used
by learners in addition to the current standard
Building Videos
CAR 11 11 1 1 35 34 8 8
classrooms they are using. This is if the restored
CARAGA 12 12 1 1 23 20 6 6 Gabaldon schoolhouse will be used for its original Lazi Central School
purpose. Below is the summary of allocation and Catamboan, Lazi, Siquijor
NCR 10 10 - - 4 4 6 6
accomplishment per year. School ID: 120677
Region I 57 66 4 4 67 67 23 24
To date, a total of 698 Gabaldon schoolhouses in Estimated Year
Region II 13 15 3 4 19 19 10 12 715 sites are still in need of repair and restoration Constructed/Established: 1915-1920
funds which the Department intends to program for
Region III 42 44 - - 39 39 22 22
the next three (3) years. This will require an annual
Region IV-A 71 78 - - 55 53 35 38 appropriation of P3.3 billion.
Region IV-B 12 15 1 1 9 9 6 6 Further, the proposal is presented in this manner
since the preparation of the Detailed Engineering
Region IX 9 13 2 2 18 17 8 9
Plans for the Gabaldon restoration projects is tedious
Region V 30 35 6 6 23 23 14 17 and will require more time than the usual Repair
and Rehabilitation projects of the Department.
Region VI 81 88 5 5 120 119 48 56
In order to preserve the condition of the restored
Region VII 88 95 8 8 174 170 50 57 Gabaldon schoolhouses and heritage school buildings,
Region VIII 50 55 1 1 38 35 20 24 an annual maintenance budget should be put in
place for their preventive maintenance. The said
Region X 32 32 10 13 49 45 8 9 budget should be added to the regular budget for the
Region XI 36 36 3 4 13 13 11 11 restoration program.

Region XII 5 11 4 4 11 11 4 5 The preventive maintenance is estimated to cost

P500,000 per classroom for minor repairs, which
Grand Total 560 618 55 60 715 698 289 321 may include but is not limited to repainting using the
Standard Color Scheme for Gabaldon schoolhouses,
Table 2. Summary of existing Gabaldon Schoolhouses which need budget allocation minor repair of walls, floors, and ceilings, electrical Lubao Elementary School
to be restored in the next three (3) years. accessories, minor repair of roofing, and termite Lubao, Pampanga
control, among others. School ID: 106023
The preventive maintenance of buildings shall Estimated Year
be made every five years or as the need arises. The Constructed/Established: 1901
Following the NSBI data, 705 Gabaldon schoolhouses On the other hand, there are 49 Gabaldon schoolhouses initial round of preventive maintenance will cover all
in 698 sites nationwide have either undergone or recorded as condemned. The DepEd Inspectorate Team Gabaldon schoolhouses restored for more than five
are currently undergoing full restoration through and Engineers still need to validate of the actual status years, those in good conditions and those needing
utilization of the annual Gabaldon Heritage School of these condemned schoolhouses to delve into the minor repairs.
Building Restoration and Conservation Program from possibility of their restoration, as some might have been
year 2017 to year 2020. demolished already since the report was made years ago. In summary, the budget proposal for the 2021 Gabaldon
Heritage Schools Restoration and Conservation
Project will have a total of P2.981 billion broken
down as follows:
This proposal is being put forward to again emphasize
the architectural, historical, social, and scientific
Category Total Target No. of Buildings Total Proposed Budget
significance of the Gabaldon Schoolhouses and other
Restoration of Gabaldon Schoolhouses 233 2,330,000,000 heritage school buildings and may be considered a
legacy project of this Administration.
Preventive Maintenance of Gabaldon Schoolhouses 1,302 651,000,000

Total 1,535 2,981,000,000

The comprehensive data and proposal are presented on the
Aide Memoire for the Conservation and Restoration of
Table 3. Total of the proposed budget allocation for the restoration and maintenance Gabaldon Schoolhouses and Other Heritage School Buildings
of 1,535 Gabaldon Schoolhouses for the year 2021 (May 22, 2020).

118 119
 Arch. Joel V. Rico with the Division Engineer inspects the on-going restoration of
a Gabaldon Schoolhouse in Romblon.

Implementing
Rules And Regulations
of Republic Act No. 11194
AN ACT MANDATING THE CONSERVATION OF GABALDON SCHOOL BUILDINGS NATIONWIDE,
PROVIDING PENALTIES AND APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR

The R.A. 11194, also known as Gabaldon School Buildings Conservation Act. RULE I
TITLE, PURPOSE, AND CONSTRUCTION

Section 1 - Short Title.

Download a Download a copy
copy of These rules shall be known as the Implementing of the
RA 11194 – Gabaldon Law IRR
Rules and Regulations of Republic Act No. 11194
Gabaldon Law
otherwise known as the “Gabaldon School Buildings
Conservation Act.”

120 121

Section 2 - Purpose.
These Rules are promulgated to prescribe the
procedures and guidelines for the implementation
of RA No. 11194 in order to facilitate compliance
therewith and to achieve the objectives thereof.
Section 3 - Construction.
These Rules shall be construed and applied in
accordance with, and in furtherance of the policies and
objectives of the law. In case of conflict or ambiguity,
which may arise in the implementation of these Rules,
the Department of Education shall issue the necessary
clarification. In case of doubt, the same shall be
construed liberally with the objective of promoting
conservation of Gabaldon school buildings.
RULE II
DECLARATION OF POLICY, SCOPE,
AND APPLICATION
Section 4 - Declaration of Policy.
It is hereby declared the policy of the State to
conserve and promote the country’s historical, and
cultural heritage and resources. Towards this end,
it shall strengthen its efforts and pursue a more
proactive role in the conservation and restoration of
122
built heritage, such as the Gabaldon school buildings,
to preserve their architectural, historical, and social
significance.
Section 5 - Scope and Application.
In the desire to preserve the architectural, historical
and social significance of these type of school buildings
and other heritage structures, the provision of these
rules shall apply to:
5.1 School buildings designed and built by the Bureau
of Architecture and Construction of Public Buildings for
the Bureau of Education from 1910 to 1940;
5.2 Ancillary structures integral to the Gabaldon
school buildings; and
5.3 Other heritage structures within the school
complex.
Section 6 - Historical Significance.
The classification of Gabaldon school buildings based
on historical significance shall be the primordial
consideration for all Gabaldon building structures.
These include schools, which were attended by persons
of national and international prominence, and have
significant historical events.
During inspection, the writer-researchers of the Gabaldon Conservation Team conduct an interview
with the school personnel about the history of the heritage schoolhouse.
RULE III
DEFINITION OF TERMS
Section 7 - Definition of Terms.
The following terms shall be defined as follows:
7.1 Adaptive reuse* – utilization of buildings,
other built structures and sites of value for
purposes other than that which they were intended
originally, in order to conserve the site, their
engineering integrity and authenticity of design.
(Adaptive reuse may be allowed provided School
Head certifies that there are no remaining
classroom/instructional space requirement in
accordance with DepEd standard parameters.)
7.2 Ancillary Structures – heritage structures
within the school complex such as, but not
limited to Home Economics buildings, Industrial
Arts buildings, monuments, flagpoles, gates/
fences, and training building.
123
7.3 Built Heritage* – shall refer to
architectural and engineering structures such
as but not limited to bridges, government
buildings, ancestral houses, places of worship,
traditional dwellings, military installations,
train stations, lighthouses, small ports, city
and streetscapes, educational technological
and industrial complexes, and their setting and
landscapes with notable historical and cultural
significance.
7.4 Conservation – the processes and measures
of maintaining the cultural significance
of Gabaldon school buildings including
preservation, restoration, reconstruction,
protection, adaptation, or any combination
thereof.
7.5 Conservation Management Plan – shall
refer to the guiding document for the construction
and management of a heritage place. It is a tool
that allows owners, conservators, managers and
government cultural agencies to make a sound
decision about heritage places.

The Gabaldon Inspectorate Team visits the on-going restoration of Gabaldon schoolhouse in
Romblon West Central School.
7.6 Cultural Agencies – shall refer to the
following national government agencies;
National Commission for Culture and the Arts
(NCCA), National Historical Commission of the
Philippines (NHCP), and National Museum of the
Philippines (NMP).
7.7 Documentation - shall include the
assessment, validation, and ensure that it has
validated and verified information and data on
the structural, accessibility, use and adaptive
use of all Gabaldon school buildings. This
information shall be the basis for determination
of appropriate actions in its conservation
and this may include: 1) historical profile; 2)
photographs; 3) repair/restoration records; 4)
testimonials of alumni; 5) and other analogous
sources.
7.8 Gabaldon school building – school buildings
designed by American Architect William Parsons
and funded through Act No. 1801, authored by
Assemblyman Isauro Gabaldon. This may also
refer to school buildings designed and built by
the Bureau of Architecture and Construction of
Public Buildings for the Bureau of Education from
1910 to 1940.
7.9 Historical Landmarks* – sites or structures
that are associated with events or achievements
significant to Philippine History as declared by
National Historical Commission of the Philippines.
7.10 Historical Monuments* – structures that
honor illustrious persons or commemorate events of
historical value as declared by National Historical
Commission of the Philippines.
7.11 Historical Shrines* – historical sites or
structures hallowed or revered for their history or
association as declared by the National Historical
Commission of the Philippines.
7.12 Important Cultural Property (ICP)* shall
refer to a cultural property having exceptional
cultural, artistic and historical significance to the
Philippines, as shall be determined by the National
Museum and/or National Historical Commission of
the Philippines.
7.13 National Cultural Treasure* shall refer to a
unique cultural property found locally, possessing
outstanding historical, cultural, artistic and/
or scientific value which is highly significant
and important to the country and nation, and
officially declared as such by pertinent cultural
agency.
7.14 Preservation* – all activities that employ
means to control, minimize or prevent damage
or deterioration to cultural property, including
preventive maintenance but not limited to
repainting, termite control, structural stability.
7.15 Reconstruction*– process of depicting, by
means of new construction, the form, features, and
detailing of a non-surviving site, landscape, building,
structure, or object for the purpose of replicating
its appearance at a specific period of time and its
historic location.
7.16 Rehabilitation*– returning a building or
a structure to a useful state by means of repair,
modification, or alteration.
7.17 Repair* – work undertaken to restore or
improve every facility in every part of a building.
7.18 Restoration* – action taken or the technical
intervention to correct deterioration and
alternations.
7.19 Tangible Cultural Property* – cultural
property with historical, archival, anthropological,
archaeological, artistic and architectural value, and
with exceptional or traditional production.
7.20 Technical Working Council – a permanent
body, created under the NCCA composed of the
NCCA, NHCP, NM, and DPWH tasked with the
final determination of heritage issues.
RULE IV
CONSERVATION OF GABALDON SCHOOL
BUILDINGS AS HERITAGE STRUCTURE
Section 8 - Conservation of Gabaldon school buildings.
The Department of Education (DepEd), in consultation
with the National Commission for Culture and the
Arts (NCCA), the National Historical Commission
of the Philippines (NHCP), and the National Museum
of the Philippines (NMP), shall implement a program
for the identification and conservation of all Gabaldon
school buildings nationwide.
Section 9 – Prohibitions.
Any unauthorized modification, alteration,
destruction, demolition, or relocation of Gabaldon
school buildings shall be strictly prohibited.
Any violation committed thereto shall be dealt
in accordance with the penal provisions of this
implementing rules and regulations.

124 125
 Section 10 - Technical Assistance by Cultural Agencies.
10.1 In cases where conservation measures are
necessary, the DepEd, in coordination with the
NCCA, the NHCP, and the NMP, shall provide
proper technical assistance to school heads to ensure
that the original architectural design of the school
building is maintained.
10.2 Provided, however, that, subject to the issuance
of a permit from the NCCA, any modification or
alteration of the original architectural design of
Gabaldon school buildings may be allowed in public
elementary and secondary schools.
10.3 The exigency of constructing new school
buildings is a priority in anticipation of the
increase in student population by virtue of the
implementation of Republic Act No. 10533, or the
“Enhanced Basic Education Act of 2013”.
10.4 Provided, further, that the façade and
other distinct features of the original Gabaldon
school buildings shall, as much as possible, be
preserved.
RULE V
THE ROLE OF THE DEPARTMENT OF
EDUCATION
Section 11 - Roles and Responsibilities of the
Department of Education (DepEd).
The DepEd shall be the lead government agency
mandated to strengthen its effort and pursue a more
pro-active role in the conservation and restoration of
all Gabaldon school buildings. The following are its
roles and responsibilities:
11.1 Maintain the inventory of all Gabaldon school
buildings;
11.2 Endorse the inventory of all Gabaldon school
buildings for validation, review, and concurrence, to
the NCCA Technical Working Council (TWC);
11.3 Conduct consultation meeting with
stakeholders prior to the restoration of Gabaldon
school buildings.
11.4 Allocate funds intended for the conservation
of the Gabaldon school buildings;
Usec Alain Del B. Pascua and Arch. Joel V. Rico inspect the 11.5 Provide assistance to the School Heads on the
on-going restoration of the Gabaldon schoolhouse in conservation of the original architectural design of
Laoag Central Elementary School, Ilocos Norte. the restored Gabaldon school building;
126
11.6 Implement, monitor, report, and file related
documents on the conservation of Gabaldon school
buildings;
11.7 Prepare a Conservation Management Plan
(CMP) for the Gabaldon school buildings in
coordination with NHCP, NCCA, and NMP.
11.8 The DepEd and fund donors shall enter into
a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) for the
utilization of all cash donations from other sources
intended for the restoration of the Gabaldon school
building.
11.9 Determine the adaptive re-use of Gabaldon
school building for purposes other than that which
they were intended originally may be allowed at the
discretion of DepEd to conserve the site, engineering
integrity, and authenticity of design.
11.10 To install a standard DepEd marker on
completely restored Gabaldon school buildings.
RULE VI
SUPPORT OF GOVERNMENT INSTITUTIONS
IN THE CONSERVATION OF GABALDON
SCHOOL BUILDINGS
Section 12 - Government Institution Linkages and
Coordination.
The government agencies listed herein, shall
consult, coordinate and work closely with DepEd
in the implementation of their respective programs,
projects, and activities in the context of this Act.
DepEd may link up with other government agencies
as it may deem appropriate, as a way of dealing with
conservation on a holistic manner. The following are
the government institutions and their respective duties
and responsibilities:
12.1 - National Commission for Culture and the
Arts (NCCA) shall:
a) Act as a coordinating body of all cultural
agencies on all Gabaldon-related communication
from DepEd;
b) Upon assessment and recommendation of
the TWC, the NCCA shall issue a permit for
any modification or alteration of the original
architectural design of Gabaldon school buildings;
c) Assist DepEd on the implementation of a
program for the identification and conservation
of all Gabaldon school buildings nationwide;
127
 d) Integrate the inventory of all Gabaldon
school buildings in the Philippine Registry of
Cultural Property (PRECUP).
e) To install a marker to restored Gabaldon
school building declared as Important Cultural
Property (ICP) or National Cultural Treasure
(NCT), pursuant to R.A. No. 11333 or The Act
Strengthening the National Museum of the
Philippines.
12.2 - National Historical Commission of the
Philippines (NHCP) shall:
a) Provide technical assistance to DepEd in
the conservation to ensure that the original
architectural design of the Gabaldon School
Building is maintained;
b) Install a marker to Gabaldon school building
with national historical significance.
12.3 - National Museum of the Philippines (NMP)
shall:
a) Disseminate information in more
understandable and practical forms through
lectures, exhibitions and publications for
students and the general public to provide the
importance and relevance of Gabaldon buildings;
b) Provide technical assistance to DepEd to
ensure that the original architectural design of
the Gabaldon School Building is maintained.
12.4 - Department of Environment and Natural
Resources (DENR) shall:
a) Donate confiscated forest products to DepEd
based on existing rules and regulations;
b) Provide technical assistance in securing
clearances and necessary permits including the
turnover and transport of the confiscated logs/
lumber needed in the implementation of the
conservation of the Gabaldon school buildings;
c) Provide the list of Wood Processing Plants
(WPP) with approved Permit from which
the DepEd may enter into a Memorandum of
Agreement (MOA) for the conversion of turned-
over logs into lumber; and
d) Provide list of holders of Certificate of
Registration as Importer of forest products
(Logs, Lumber, Veneer, Plywood, Other Wood
Based Panels, Poles and Piles, Pulpwood and
128
Wood Chips) and approved Lumber Dealer
Permit from which DepEd may source upon their
required wood requirement.
12.5 - Department of Interior and Local
Government (DILG) shall:
Coordinate with DepEd and national cultural
agencies on matters pertaining to cultural
properties under the jurisdiction, and ensure that
the provisions of this IRR are properly executed
by the Local Government Units (LGUs);
12.5.1 - The Local Government Units (LGU) shall:
a) Issue all necessary permits prior to the
implementation of the conservation of the
Gabaldon school buildings;
b) Allocate funds from the School Education
Fund (SEF) for the preservation and maintenance
of the Gabaldon school buildings;
c) Coordinate with DepEd for partnership on
future development within the school that may affect
the preservation of the Gabaldon school building;
d) Adopt measures for the protection and
conservation of Gabaldon school buildings.
12.6 - Department of Public Works and Highways
(DPWH) shall:
a) Assist DepEd in the implementation of the
management preservation plan for the Gabaldon
school buildings in coordination with NHCP,
NCCA, and NM;
b) Provide technical assistance to DepEd in
ensuring the structural integrity of the Gabaldon
school building.
c) Provide assistance to DepEd on the demolition
of infrastructures that obstruct the façade of
restored/repaired/rehabilitated Gabaldon school
buildings and those which will be restored.
RULE VII
CONSERVATION AND RESTORATION
GUIDELINES
Section 13 – Conservation and Restoration Guidelines.
The conservation and restoration guidelines are herein
attached as Annex A and shall form an integral part of
this IRR.
RULE VIII
ENFORCEMENT AND PENALTY
Links to Gabaldon
and Heritage
Section 14 - Penal Provisions.
Building Videos
Any person who shall cause or abet the unauthorized
modification, alteration, destruction, demolition, or Maria Central Elementary School
relocation of the Gabaldon school building shall be
Poblacion Norte, Maria, Siquijor
subject to the following penalties:
School ID: 120681
14.1 For the first violation, a fine of not less than Year Constructed/Established: 1926
one hundred thousand pesos (P100,000.00)
but not exceeding five hundred thousand pesos
(P500,000.00) or imprisonment of not less
than six months but not more than two years, or
both at the discretion of the court;
14.2 For any subsequent violation, a fine
of not less than five hundred thousand
pesos (P500,000.00) but not exceeding
one million pesos (P1,000,000.00) or
imprisonment for not less than two years
but not more than six years, or both at the
discretion of the court.
14.3 If the violator is a corporation, organization
or any similar entity, the officials thereof directly
involved shall be liable therefore.
14.4 If the violator is an alien or a foreigner,
he shall be deported immediately after service Negros Occidental High School
of sentence without further deportation
Bacolod City, Negros Occidental
proceedings.
School ID: 302669
14.5 Upon filing of an appropriate complaint, Year Constructed/Established: 1931
and after due notice and hearing, the proper
authorities may also cause the cancellation or
revocation of the business permit, permit to
operate, franchise and other similar privileges
granted to any business entity that fails to abide
by the provisions of this Act.
Section 15 - Administrative Liability.
In addition to the penalties provided in the immediately
preceding section, non-compliance with the
provision of this Act by officials and employees of
the Civil Service shall be dealt with in accordance
with the respective Rules of Procedure of the
government agencies mentioned herein, if there
is any, otherwise, the provisions of the Revised
Rules on Administrative Cases in the Civil Service
(RRACS) and Republic Act No. 6713 (Code of
Conduct and Ethical Standards for Public Officials
and Employees shall be observed.
129

Candelaria Elementary School - San Juan (Restored)
RULE IX
FINAL PROVISIONS
Section 16 - Appropriations
The Department of Budget and Management (DBM) shall
set aside annual appropriations for the restoration and
maintenance of Gabaldon school buildings.
Section 17 - Repealing Clause.
All rules and regulations contrary to or inconsistent
with the provisions of these rules and regulations are
hereby repealed or amended accordingly.
Section 18 - Separability Clause.
If any provision of these rules and regulations is held
invalid or unconstitutional by the competent court,
the other provisions not so declared shall remain in
force and effect.
130
Zambales National High School (Restored)
Annex A
Guidelines on Conservation of
Gabaldon Heritage School Buildings
Chapter I
Section 19 - Effectivity. 1. Scope of Works c) Ceiling works (ceiling joists, ceiling boards,
and other accessories)
These rules and regulations shall take effect 1.1 The problem of conservation of schoolhouses
immediately after publication in two (2) in the Philippines is the lack of proper guidelines d) Exterior and interior walls (vertical and
newspapers of general circulation or in the Official to ensure the quality of architectural and structural horizontal studs and T&G; reinforced concrete)
Gazette whichever takes place sooner. A copy of features.
these rules shall be deposited in the National e) Doors and Windows (panel doors, door
Administrative Register. 1.2 The restoration guidelines aim to provide jambs, capiz/glass window frames, window
directions in the proper repair, restoration, and jambs, and other accessories)
preservation of the Gabaldon school buildings.
f) Flooring (wooden floors, girders, floor joists,
1.3 Restoration must be conducted and applied to and bridgings)
LEONOR MAGTOLIS-BRIONES preserve and extend the life of Gabaldon or Heritage
Secretary, DepEd Building and shall include the replacement of g) Concreting works (footings, columns, beams,
damaged materials of the following: concrete slabs)
MARK A. VILLAR EDUARDO M. AÑO
Secretary, DPWH Secretary, DILG
a) Truss members (top chords, bottom chords; h) Wood works (wooden posts, girders/beams)
ROY A. CIMATU ARSENIO J. LIZASO horizontal, vertical, diagonal bracings; purlins,
Secretary, DENR Chairman, NCCA fascia boards, and king posts) i) Electrical works (complete electrical re-
wirings and lightings; including fire alarm in
RENE R. ESCALANTE JEREMY BARNS b) Roofing works (corrugated G.I. roofings, compliance with the existing Philippine Electrical
Chairman, NHCP Director, NMP gutters, flashings, ridge rolls, and other accessories) Code and Fire Code of the Philippines).
131

Cavite National High School, Cavite City
1.4 The architectural character and integrity of the
building must, as far as practicable, be maintained.
Accordingly, all extraneous ancillary structures
outside, directly attached or built inside and not
part of original design must be removed. This shall
include stage, covered court, toilets, washing counter,
storage room, mural, covered walkways, plant boxes,
and other attached structures or fixtures.
2. Preventive Maintenance
Preventive maintenance must be observed to
preserve and extend the life of Gabaldon school
buildings. These measures are as follows:
2.1 Restore any damaged parts of the building
using original materials or the prescribed alternative
materials.
2.2 Apply wood preservative and soil poisoning
annually which may be charged to the Maintenance
and Other Operating Expenses (MOOE) or to the
Capital Outlay.
2.3 Regular cleaning and repair of gutters,
downspouts, and area below raised floor (silong).
2.4 Painting/re-painting of the whole or parts of
the building using the approved color scheme.
2.5 Trim overarching tree branches to prevent
the deterioration of corrugated G.I. roofing sheets,
gutters, and downspouts.
3. Gabaldon School Building Markers
3.1 After the completed restoration work, DepEd,
together with NCCA, NHCP, and NMP shall install
a commemorative brass marker.
132
Romblon Central School, Romblon
3.2 All restored Gabaldon buildings undertaken by
DepEd shall be included in the NMP list of National
Cultural Treasures.
3.3 For heritage school buildings of National
Historical significance, NHCP shall install a
historical marker.
4. Conservation Permits, Clearances, and Licenses
4.1 The implementing agency shall provide
assistance in securing all the necessary permits prior
to actual implementation in accordance with the
National Building Code of the Philippines.
4.2 Pursuant to Executive Order No. 23, the
DepEd shall be given priority in the use of all
confiscated logs.
a) All disposition of confiscated logs, lumber
and other forest products shall be governed by
the same requirement rules of procedures applied
by the DENR Central Committee on Bids and
Awards of Office of the Secretary.
5. List of Alternative Materials and Architectural
Finishes
Although the project aims to bring back the
heritage school buildings to their original
architectural appearance, finding the exact
material that was installed before will be a
challenge. Thus, alternative materials below will
be applied when the same exact specifications
could no longer be found:
5.1Architectural Finishes
Table 5.1.a
Original School Original School Building Restoration Suggested
Building Parts Material and Finishes Materials Alternative Materials
ARCHITECTURAL
Window Capiz Capiz Fiber Glass
Glass Glass Fiber Glass
Doors Solid Paneled Door Solid Paneled Door Solid Paneled Door
Calado (fret work) Wood Wood Engineered Wood
Interior Partition Wood Wood Engineered Wood
Concrete Concrete Concrete Hollow Blocks
Coral Stone Coral Stone Engineered Wood
Floor Finish EXTERIOR Plain cement finish Plain cement finish
Plain cement with Plain cement with Plain cement with
red cement finish red cement finish red cement finish
stamped (portion) stamped (portion) stamped (portion)
Brick tiles Brick tiles Brick tiles
(30cm x 30cm) (30cm x 30cm) (30cm x 30cm)
Colored cement tiles Colored cement tiles Colored cement tiles
(Machuca) (Machuca) (Machuca)
(20cm x 20cm) (20cm x 20cm) (20cm x 20cm)
Floor Finish INTERIOR Wood Wood Engineered Wood/
Composite Wood
Plain cement finish Plain cement finish Plain cement finish
Frieze/ Relief Precast/ Mortar Precast/ Mortar Precast/ Mortar
Roof Bracket Wood Wood Wood
Steel Steel Steel
Exterior Wall Wood Wood Engineered Wood/
Composite Wood
Concrete Concrete Hollow Concrete Hollow
Blocks (CHB) Blocks (CHB)
Bricks Bricks Plastered Concrete/
Hollow Blocks with
Groove design
Adobe Limestone Adobe Limestone Concrete Hollow Blocks
Coral stone Coral stone Synthetic stone
Riverstone Riverstone Riverstone
Stairs Exterior Wood Wood Composite Wood
Wood and Concrete Wood and Concrete Concrete and
Composite Wood
Concrete Concrete Concrete
Stairs Interior Wood Wood Wood
Concrete Reinforced Concrete Reinforced Concrete
Roof Corrugated Corrugated Galvanized Corrugated
Galvanized roof roof 0.6mm Galvanized roof 0.6mm
Ceiling Steel Steel Wood
Wood Wood PVC Panel Laminated/
Composite Wood
Plywood Plywood Composite Wood
Baluster Wood/ Precast/ Wood/ Precast/ Composite Wood/
Cast Iron Pipe Galvanized Iron G.I. Pipe
Pipe Sch.40
133

F.R. Flores Elementary School, Bacolod City
In cases where major parts of the Gabaldon school buildings were already modified, the following alternative
restoration materials shall be applied.
Table 5.1.b
Original School Existing/Modified School Restoration Suggested
Building Parts Building Materials Materials Alternative Materials
and Finishes
ARCHITECTURAL
Window Glass Capiz Fiber Glass
Doors Steel Door Solid Paneled Door Solid Paneled Door
Flush Door Solid Paneled Door Solid Paneled Door
Calado (fret work) Glass Wood Engineered Wood
Plywood Wood Engineered Wood
Interior Partition Concrete Hollow Concrete Hollow Concrete Hollow
Blocks (CHB) Blocks (CHB) Blocks (CHB)
Plywood Wood Engineered Wood
Floor Finish EXTERIOR Tile Finish Tile Finish Plain Cement Finish
Floor Finish INTERIOR Tile Finished Wooden Tiles Design Wooden Tiles Design
Plain Cement Finish Plain Cement Finish Wooden Tiles Design
Frieze/ Relief Precast/ Mortar Precast/ Mortar Precast/ Mortar
Baluster Porcelain Wood Precast/ Composite Wood/
C.I Pipe G.I. Pipe
Zocalo Wood Precast/ Composite Wood/
C.I. Pipe G.I. Pipe
134
5.2 Structural Components
Table 5.2
Original School Original School Building Restoration Suggested
Building Parts Materials and Finishes Materials Alternative Materials
STRUCTURAL
Foundation Concrete Concrete Reinforced Concrete
Post/ Column Wood Wood Structural Steel
with wood cladding
Concrete Concrete Reinforced Concrete
Floor Joist Wood Wood Structural Steel
Floor Beam Wood Wood Concrete/
Structural Steel
Trusses Wood Wood Structural Steel
Purlins Wood Wood Structural Steel
Roof Beam Wood Wood Structural Steel
5.3 Plumbing Materials
Table 5.3
Original School Existing/Modified School Restoration Suggested
Building Parts Building Materials Materials Alternative Materials
and Finishes
PLUMBING
Gutter Galvanized Iron Galvanized Iron Galvanized Iron
Downspout Cast iron Galvanized Iron PVC
5.4 Electrical Materials
Table 5.4
Original School Existing/Modified School Restoration Suggested
Building Parts Building Materials Materials Alternative Materials
and Finishes
ELECTRICAL
Exterior Lighting Porcelain Receptacle LED Can Light
(corner) (corner)
Fluorescent (Hallway) LED T5
Interior Lighting Fluorescent Drop light LED T5
Electric Fan Orbit Fan Wall Fan Wall Fan
Emergency Lights N/A Emergency Light Emergency Light
(wall mounted)
5.5 Colors
Table 5.5
Building Parts Color Name Hex Code R G B
Interior and Exterior Ceiling Floral White #FFFAFO 255 250 240
Interior and Exterior Wall Ivory White #FFFFFO 255 255 240
Wooden Post and Columns Saddle Brown #8B4513 139 69 19
Roof Firebrick #B22222 178 34 34
135

Bone North Elementary School, Aritao, Nueva Vizcaya
Chapter II
1. Project Selection
The Department of Education (DepEd), NCCA,
NHCP, and NMP have agreed on a standard Point
System considering factors to justly select school
buildings, which after restoration will provide a
quality and safe place for the students, and at the
same time bestow honor to Philippine heritage, its
heroes and other renowned Filipinos.
School buildings that attained highest points will be
placed on the priority list for restoration. Nevertheless,
all heritage buildings were subject for restoration.
Project selection shall be classified into four (4)
categories.
1.1 Structural Integrity of the school building (50%)
1.3 Historical and Cultural Significance (10%)
a) Collapse of building components damaged
by natural or human-induced disasters requiring
immediate reconstruction.
b) Declared condemned by LGU.
c) Main building components are dilapidated
or termite-infested (columns, beams, trusses)
requiring structural repair and retro-fitting.
d) The building is fit for use based on visual
inspection.
1.2 Architectural Character (30%)
a) School building from the allocation of
Congressman Isauro Gabaldon; designed
and built by the Bureau of Architecture and
Construction of Public Buildings for the Bureau
of Education headed by Ar. Edgar K. Bourne, Ar.
136
1.
William Parson, Ar. Ralph Harrington Doane,
and Ar. Richard Chard (1907 to 1918)
b) Beaux Art Style by Thomas Mapua, Juan
Arellano, Antonio Toledo (1919 to 1925);
Neoclassic from the Bureau of Architecture and
Construction of Public Buildings
c) Art Deco Style (1926 to 1941)
d) Minor alteration of architectural finishes
such as change of windows, doors, ceilings, door
finish, paintings, and floor finish
e) Major architectural and structural
modification such as trusses, roof shape, added
veranda and toilet, and other extensions
a) International and national significant
events, and personalities such as Fall of Bataan,
Surrender of the Japanese, Guinness Book of
Records, National Heroes, Philippine Presidents,
and Vice Presidents, DepEd Secretaries, National
Artists, Medal of Valor, World champions,
Pulitzer/Nobel Prize, Martyrs, Saints, Chief
Justices, Cardinals, etc.
b) National officials such as Senators,
Ambassadors, Governors, House Speakers,
Senate Presidents, Congressmen, Assemblymen,
Chief of Staff, PNP Chiefs, Ministers, Bishops,
etc. provided they achieved national prominence.
c) Local officials such as Mayors, Vice
Mayors, Monsignors, and other priests,
Councilors, local heroes, popular artists,
showbiz personalities, athletes, local leaders,
board members, etc.
1.4 Number of Classrooms (10%) d) 6-10 classrooms
e) 2-5 classrooms
a) Type 1 original Gabaldon (1 classroom)
shall be treated as rare and unique To ensure the nationwide appreciation of the project,
b) 31 classrooms and above the restoration program shall be prioritized on a per
c) 11-30 classrooms municipality, legislative district, and province basis.
Categories of Project Selection and Ranking
Structural Integrity of the Building – Visual (50%)
50% Collapse of building components damaged by natural or human-induced disasters
requiring immediate reconstruction
Declared condemned by LGU
30% Main building components are dilapidated or termite infested
(column, beams, trusses) requiring structural repair and retro-fitting
10% The building is fit for use based on visual inspection
Architectural Character (30%)
30% School building from the allocation of Congressman Isauro Gabaldon designed
and built by the Bureau of Architecture and Construction of Public Buildings for the
Bureau of Education headed by Ar. Edgar K. Bourne, Ar. William Parson,
Ar. Ralph Harrington Doane, and Ar. Richard Chard (1907 to 1918)
Beaux Art Style by Thomas Mapua, Juan Arellano, Antonio Toledo (1920 to 1925)
Neoclassic from the Bureau of Architecture and Construction of Public Buildings
Art Deco Style (1926 to 1941)
20% Minor alteration of architectural finishes such as change of windows, doors, ceilings,
door finish, paintings, and floor finish
10% Major architectural and structural modification such as trusses, roof shape,
added veranda and toilet and other extensions
Historical and Cultural Significance (10%)
10% International and national significant events, and personalities such as Fall of Bataan,
Surrender of the Japanese, Guinness Book of Records, National Heroes, Philippine
Presidents, and Vice Presidents, DepEd Secretaries, National Artists, Medal of Valor,
World champions, Pulitzer/Nobel Prize, Martyrs, Saints, Chief Justices, Cardinals, etc.
Other rare and/or unique Gabaldon buildings, preserved or have not undergone any
restoration
7% National officials such as Senators, Ambassadors, Governors, House Speakers, Senate
Presidents, Congressmen, Assemblymen, Chiefs of Staff, PNP Chiefs, Ministers, Bishops,
etc. provided they have achieved national prominence
5% Local officials such as Mayors, Vice Mayors, Monsignors and other priests, Councilors,
Local heroes, popular artists, showbiz personalities, athletes, Local leaders, board
members, etc.
Number of Classrooms (10%)
10% Type 1 original Gabaldon (1 classroom) shall be treated as rare and unique
31 classrooms and above
7% 11-30 classrooms
5% 6-10 classrooms
3% 2-5 classrooms
137
 West Central Elementary School:
A Stronghold of Philippine History

T he Home Economics Building of the West Central Elementary School, better known
as Gen. Douglas MacArthur Building is regarded as one of the country’s cultural
treasures. The original American-era structure witnessed the fulfillment of General Douglas
MacArthur’s promise to liberate the Philippines from Japanese occupation. The General and
the rest of his troops from the USAFFE used the two-storey home economics building shortly
after his arrival at the Lingayen Gulf in 1945. A large balcony on the second floor served as
the podium of General MacArthur in giving instructions to his officers and troops.
138 139
The edifice which features a typical bahay na bato and
kahoy construction was constructed in the 1930s.
It was designed by the first registered Filipino architect,
Tomas Mapua. Its façade is made of yakal and yamban
wood, while its windows are made of capiz enclosed in
iron grills. The furniture, which includes a narra bed,
dresser, fixtures, desks, blackboards, and cabinets were
preserved to honor the building’s historic character.
Because of termite infestation and excessive flooding
in the area, the building suffered severe damage
through the years. To address the structure’s advanced
deterioration, P4,000,151.61 under the Basic
Education Facilities Fund (BEFF) 2019 was allocated
for its complete restoration. However, upon initial
project implementation, the citizens of Dagupan
expressed concerns on the alleged demolition of the
Home Economics building.
To acknowledge this, the OUA created a
composite team with members from the Gabaldon
Conservation Documentation Team and the
Education Facilities Division (EFD) to work closely
with the Schools Division of Dagupan City. The goal
140
was to investigate the structure and consult with the
parties concerned.
Accordingly, the team was able to assess the extent
of damage and validate the actual condition of the
building. Moreover, a Conservation Management Plan
(CMP) was crafted to serve as a technical, scientific,
and historical guide in assessing project structures.
The CMP, in properly evaluating damage, details,
building components, material substitutions, and the
like will pave the way for well-laid restorations.
Through the suggestion of the NHCP, a revised
construction methodology was agreed upon, to
include: a) documentation of the house; b) tagging
of old wooden parts; c) careful dismantling of
wooden parts for reuse; d) clearing of all termite-
infested wooden parts; e) inventory of wood
dismantled and repurpose; f) replacement of all
damaged wooden parts including windows, doors,
ceiling; and g) faithful reconstruction of the house
based on archival and actual building layout and
details as mandated by the Heritage Act RA 10066
and the recently passed RA 11194 or the Gabaldon
Conservation Act.
With intentions of strictly adhering to the mentioned
laws regarding cultural properties, the OUA obtained
a No Objection Certificate from NHCP. This is an
essential part of the implementation process for this
document conveys NHCP’s support for the project.
Furthermore, the DepEd Gabaldon Conservation
Documentation Team turned over to Dagupan City
Mayor Marc Brian Lim the construction plans for the
implementation of the project.
Once restoration is complete, the West Central
Elementary School Home Economics Building will
provide spaces for a library, a multi-purpose room, and
a museum to commemorate its valued past as part of
the shared vision of DepEd and the City of Dagupan.
Scan the QR code to
watch a video featuring
the West Central
Elementary School
141
 Some Historical
Gabaldon Schoolhouses

Talibon Central School

The Talibon Central School along Boiser Street in Talibon, Bohol is where Carlos P. Garcia,
the 8th President of the Philippines, graduated from.
Photo taken on November 2018.

142 143
 EFD Gabaldon Staff Directory
Kiangan Central
School
The Kiangan Central
School in Kiangan, Engr. Alain Del B. Pascua
Ifugao stood witness
to a significant event Undersecretary for Administration
in history as the
site where General
Tomoyuki Yamashita Engr. Annabelle R. Pangan – Chief
surrendered in 1945, annabelle.pangan@deped.gov.ph
eventually leading
to the official end of
World War II in the East. Engr. Luis G. Purisima Jr. – Assistant Chief
Photo taken on
October 2, 2018.
luis.purisima@deped.gov.ph

Engr. Marjorie H. Tiburcio – Assistant Chief

marjorie.tiburcio@deped.gov.ph

Philippine School for

Area Managers
the Deaf
The Philippine School Engr. Evangeline C. Seng
for the Deaf located
along F.B. Harrison vangie.seng@deped.gov.ph Engr. Rommel L. Esplana
Street in Pasay City, rommel.esplana@deped.gov.ph
Metro Manila is a
pioneer public school Arch. Felix F. Villanueva, Jr.
in the Philippines for felix.villanueva@deped.gov.ph Engr. Levy T. Tatad
hearing-impaired
learners. It was
levy.tatad@deped.gov.ph
established in 1907 and Engr. Nehru Rainier P. Sarmiento
was transferred to its
nehru.sarmiento@deped.gov.ph Engr. Jason A. Almoite
present location in 1923.
Photo taken: May 17, 2018 jason.almoite@deped.gov.ph
Engr. Raymund U. Alcazar
raymund.alcazar@deped.gov.ph

Planning and Design Unit Head

Lubao Elementary Arch. Jet Raymond G. Alabaso

School jet.alabaso@deped.gov.ph
The Lubao Elementary
School in San Nicolas
1st, Lubao, Pampanga EFD Writers
is where Diosdado
Macapagal, 9th
President of the Czarina Suzette D. Santiago
Philippines, graduated
from. czarina.santiago@deped.gov.ph
Photo taken on
May 5, 2018.
Kianna Areeje Gonzales
kianna.gonzales@deped.gov.ph

144 145
 Copy of the report on lapses in the initial implementation of MacArthur Building Copy of DepEd Order No. 059, series of 2021 titled “Paying Tribute to the Birth of Philippine
restoration submitted by Usec. Alain Del B. Pascua to Secretary Leonor Magtolis-Briones Public School Buildings: Instituting and Celebrating Gabaldon Schoolhouses Day.” To pay tribute
and Dagupan City officials/offices concerned. to these legacy structures, DepEd instituted Gabaldon Schoolhouses Day to be celebrated every
December 20, the date when Act No. 1801, framed by Isauro Gabaldon, was enacted.

Download a Download a
copy of the copy of the
OUA Report DepEd Order

146 147

BEST OLD PHOTOS (Pre-1908): 3rd - Upland Elementary School, Carcar City, Cebu
Gabaldon Schoolhouse
Contest 2021
S omewhere in each house lurks a box of cracked,
withered, and faded photographs of childhood
memories — standing in front of an old building,
smiling with best pals, without any idea that all these
will become a piece of history.
Photographs, stories, and films are important, as they
preserve moments so the next generations are able to
relive the wonderful memories and somehow experience
them again and again. Even more, photographs are
easily shared with others and authenticate important
snippets of the past.
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BEST OLD PHOTOS (Pre-1908): 4th – La Union National High School, San Fernando City, La Union
In 2021, the DepEd Office of the Undersecretary for
Administration (OUA) and the Education Facilities
Division (EFD) introduced the first-ever Gabaldon
Schoolhouse Contest that highlighted the historical
and cultural importance of Gabaldon Schoolhouses
through the lenses of teachers, alumni, and locals.
The nationwide competition, which included three
categories namely Best Photos, Best Write-ups, and
Best Videos received almost 600 entries from across
the country. Winners were recognized during the
Gabaldon Schoolhouses Day on 20th of December 2021. BEST OLD PHOTOS (Pre-1908): 5th – Dapa Central Elementary School, Dapa, Surigao Del Norte
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 BEST OLD PHOTOS (Pre-war 1908-1941) BEST OLD PHOTOS (Post-war 1941-1960):
1st – West Central Elementary School I, Dagupan City, Pangasinan 1st – Eusebio Lopez Memorial School, Sagay City, Negros Occidental

2nd – Urdaneta I Central School, Urdaneta, 3rd – Libon Public School, 2nd – Guadalupe Elementary School, San 3rd – Libon Central School,
Pangasinan Libon, Albay Carlos City, Negros Occidental Libon, Albay

4th – Ozamiz City Central School, Ozamiz City, 5th – Magsaysay Memorial Elementary School, 4th – Gov. DM Camerino Integrated School, 5th – Lala Proper Integrated School, Lala,
Misamis Occidental Dumaguete City, Negros Oriental Imus, Cavite Lanao Del Norte

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 BEST OLD PHOTOS (1961-1990) BEST CONTEMPORARY PHOTOS (Taken during daytime)
1st – Ozamiz City Central School, Ozamiz City, Misamis Occidental 1st – Mabini Central Elementary School, Mabini, Bohol

2nd – Dr. Celedonio A. Salvador 3rd – Oas South Central School,

2nd – Tagpore Integrated School, Panabo City, 3rd – Napnapan Elementary School, Pantukan, Elementary School, Paco, Manila Oas, Albay
Davao Del Norte Compostela Valley

4th – Ermita Elementary School, San Carlos 5th – Malilipot Central School, 4th – Eugenio Daza Pilot Elementary School, 5th – West Central Elementary School I,
City, Negros Occidental Malilipot, Albay Borongan City, Eastern Samar Dagupan City, Pangasinan

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 BEST CONTEMPORARY PHOTOS (Taken during nighttime) BEST CONTEMPORARY PHOTOS (Taken during sunrise/sunset)
1st - Dr. Celedonio A. Salvador Elementary School, Paco, Manila 1st - Malilipot Central School, Malilipot, Albay

2nd - Casiguran Central School, Casiguran, 3rd - Camalig South Central School, Camalig, 2nd - Basilan National High School, 3rd - San Saturnino Elementary School,
Sorsogon Albay Isabela City, Basilan Borongan City, Eastern Samar

4th - Sta. Cruz Central Elementary School, 5th - Pantukan National High School, Pantukan, 4th – Bais City Pilot School, Bais City, 5th – Sto. Domingo Central School,
Santa Cruz, Davao Del Sur Compostela Valley Negros Oriental Sto. Domingo, Albay

154 155
Other References on Gabaldon Schoolhouses VIDEOS

Gabaldon Heritage School Building Gabaldon History Documentation –

BOOKS of Napnapan Elementary School Abaga Central Elementary School
by Teacher Jeff Morales by Lahi at Kultura

Gabaldon: The American Colonial Public School

Philippine Heritage Buildings in the Philippines:
Schools The Archival Materials

Impalutao Integrated School – Importance Restored Bais City Pilot School

In 2016, DepEd published the Gabaldon Philippine In February 2022, the NCCA, in cooperation with of Gabaldon Building School Contest Gabaldon Building 2020
Heritage Schools coffee table book spearheaded the United Architects of the Philippines, published by Bukidnon Bulls TV by BCPS
by then DepEd Secretary Bro. Armin Luistro. Scan “The American Colonial Public School Buildings of
the QR code to download a copy of the book. the Philippines, The Archival Materials”.

VIDEOS

Brief History and Features of Gabaldon Building

by Lala Proper Integrated School

Mindanao Roadtrip to Camiguin: Balaoan Central School

Gabaldon School Buildings Gabaldon Buildings
by Mindanao Roadtrip with Art by Lahi at Kultura

Kabilin Gabaldon School Buildings Part 01 Kabilin Gabaldon School Buildings Part 02
by Sugbuanong Kabilin by Sugbuanong Kabilin

Midsayap Pilot Isabela City Pilot School

Elementary School Gabaldon Building
by MindaKaron with G by Isabela City de Basilan

Kabilin Gabaldon School Buildings Part 03 Kabilin Gabaldon School Buildings Part 04
by Sugbuanong Kabilin by Sugbuanong Kabilin

Scan the QR code to access the link for each reference on Gabaldon Schoolhouses

156 157
Of Glory and Antiquity:
Revisiting Baguio Teachers Camp

158 159
 While still preserving the atmosphere of the old Baguio,
BTC started improving its main facilities towards the
end of 2018. Parts of the flooring of the Administration
Building were replaced. New lighting fixtures and
updated security system were installed, and its interior
was completely repainted – same with the dormitories
and cottages where interiors were improved, showcasing
intricate Cordillera patterns and designs.

The conference and mess halls namely Albert,

Romulo, Quirino, and Roxas, also went through
major rehabilitation. There are visible changes in their
building components, as floors, windows, doors, ceiling,
and roofing were repaired. These halls can accommodate
hundreds of guests at one time, making them the perfect
venue for activities and events of public and private
groups. More than this, BTC is set to implement full
board and lodging packages in its regular operations.

For the convenience and security of guests and visitors,

the Camp is now equipped with CCTV cameras and
monitors, light and sound systems, LED screens,
and projectors. BTC also continues to improve its
surroundings through landscaping and the regular
planting of new pine trees.
From originally serving the needs of Filipino and
American educators, BTC has in the last 100 years
expanded and has opened its doors to the general public.
People from different walks of life now enjoy everything
that the Camp has to offer. From the initial 190
visitors, the beauty and splendor of BTC has enchanted
thousands more. In fact, official records show that the
Camp accommodated 115,105 guests in 2016.
Today, BTC continues to showcase Baguio’s proud
history and unique beauty. Its facilities have been
carefully restored to harmonize with the city’s natural
landscape and culture. These structures perfectly
complement the abundance and rich collection of
mountain flora – sunflowers, cosmos, magnolias, and
many more that can be seen all around the Camp.
Despite the rapid modernization of the country’s
summer capital, BTC manages to preserve the Baguio
that we all know and love.
Beyond its role in the long journey of Philippine
education, BTC remains to offer that old familiar
ambiance of Baguio City that travelers and guests
hauntingly long for. A comfortable place of rest, of
study, and leisure, for individuals, circle of friends,
and families, while keeping in touch with Baguio’s
glory and antiquity.

O ur memories might not be of the same

untouched serenity felt by the Thomasites
who first set foot at this site, but the sensation
is no less different while wandering around the
Baguio Teachers Camp (BTC).
Established in 1908, the BTC served as a training
center and vacation site for Filipino and American
teachers where education-related activities were held
yearly during the summer season. It has been a living
witness to major assemblies and events that harnessed
the evolution of Philippine Education.
At its centennial celebration on May 12, 2008, the
BTC was declared a national heritage site that must be
protected and preserved. Thus, the DepEd is determined
and exerts all-out effort to maintain BTC’s historical and
cultural legacy in its entirety.

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 Welcome to Teachers Camp
BTC is located in a beautiful, spacious, campus-like environment close to the city center, with its main entrance along
Leonard Wood Road with another entrance on posh South Drive. For the past 100 years, BTC served as a training
center and venue for teachers from all over the Philippines who come during the summer break to attend special
courses in education.
162
Cottages and Guesthouses
Aside from its aim to inspire the teachers with innovative ideas that could well benefit the education profession, BTC
also serves as a venue to rejuvenate the tired bodies of our teachers, thus affordable cottages are offered. In total, there
are 27 cottages with a capacity of 226 occupants, and 22 guesthouses that can accommodate 209 personnel, depending
on the size and number of bedrooms.
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 Dormitories Conference Halls
There are restored and ready to use 11 dormitories with a total capacity of 1,058 tenants. Offered for a reasonable Conference halls are named after outstanding political leaders and educators - Benitez, Romulo, Quezon, Quirino,
price, dormitories are big as they were made for teachers, long before the tourist boom. When teachers are not using Oring-ao, Pages, Abada and Albert have a total capacity of about 3,000 guests. These are used for seminars, trainings,
them, dormitories are rented to tourists. gatherings and celebrations.

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 Landscape Architecture Athletic Oval
The Athletic Oval offers ample space for athletic training. It has been used by national athletes to prepare for international
BTC features a number of picturesque structures that showcase Baguio’s unique flora. The existing wooden bridge and competitions such as the Southeast Asian Games and the Olympics. Some of the most prominent athletes who trained at
picnic tables are surrounded by beautiful sunflowers and pine trees. the Oval were Lydia De Vega, Elma Muros-Posadas, Mansueto “Onyok” Velasco, and Hidilyn Diaz.

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 Baguio Teachers Camp is where
the nostalgic feeling sojourns
in the midst of a modernizing
place of Baguio City. This is
where you feel safe, where you
feel understood, feel relaxed and
at ease. Come and experience
the home that has been waiting
for you!

VISIT US TODAY

Office Hours
Monday-Saturday
8:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Baguio Teachers Camp

Address
Beyond Tales and History Baguio Teachers Camp,
Leonard Wood Road,
Baguio City

Contact Numbers
Tel.: 444.222.2255
Fax: 222.333.4444

Baguio Teachers Camp

Directory

Dr. Eliseo B. Raymundo

Camp Superintendent
eliseo.raymundo001@deped.gov.ph

Ms. Yolanda A. Pascua

Section Chief, Administrative Section
yolanda.pascua@deped.gov.ph

Ms. Mary Jane B. Contapay

Section Chief,
Client Relations and Management Section
Camp Museum mary.contapay@deped.gov.ph

Ms. Ma. Susan T. Bustarde

BTC features a museum that holds a collection of significant photos from the Camp’s humble beginnings. It also
Section Chief, Finance Section
exhibits historical items that commemorate BTC’s contribution to Filipino education. These provide a quick glance
masusan.bustarde@deped.gov.ph
at Baguio City’s untouched nature.

168 169
 Who were the After just a few days, he came
back and gave me mind-blowing

First Education Secretaries bits of history. All of my initial

online research and previous
assumptions were wiped out with
of the Philippines? historical answers.

By Undersecretary Alain Pascua

S
pangalawang DepEd Secretary ay si Graciano Gonzaga
a tuwing nadaraan ako sa lobby ng Rizal Building ng DepEd Central Office, palagi na nagsilbi mula Enero hanggang Mayo 1899.
akong tumitingin sa mga nakapaskil na larawan ng ating mga pambansang bayani.
On May 6, 1899, President Aguinaldo appointed
Mula sa pinaka-popular na si Dr. Jose Rizal hanggang sa ating mga lokal na bayaning Aguedo Velarde as Secretary of the Secretaria de
Aguedo Velarde, circa 1880s Primaria Instrucciones. Siya ang pangatlong DepEd
gusto rin nating bigyang halaga. Pagkatapos pasadahan ng tingin ang mga buod ng kanilang Secretary. Velarde’s office was presumably ended
buhay, titingala naman ako para masulyapan ang mga framed portraits ng mga nagsilbing when President Aguinaldo abolished his cabinet in
November 1899 to give way for the guerilla warfare
Education Secretaries. Mula mismo kay NHCP Chairperson Rene Escalante,
against the US forces up north.
DepEd was founded on June 23, 1898 when the
I have once called the attention of the Administrative Philippine Revolutionary Government was established This is just some of the information I got from the
Service and the General Services Division when I noticed by President Emilio Aguinaldo with a functioning initial research by NHCP, and I thank its chairperson
that the portrait of current Secretary of Education government structure designed by Apolinario Mabini. Dr. Rene Escalante for providing me with the paper “A
Leonor Magtolis Briones is nowhere in the gallery. I was But it was only on September 26, 1898 that the position Preliminary Study of the Origin of DepEd 1898-1899.”
told that her portrait will be mounted at the end of her of the secretary was filled-in with the appointment of
term. That is the tradition being observed in DepEd. Felipe Buencamino as Secretary of Fomento (or Public I do hope that DepEd, more particularly the
Development) with Direccion de Instruccion Publica Curriculum and Instruction Strand, research this
Subalit ako’y nagtataka kung bakit and unang kalihim ng (Director for Public Instruction or Education) under it. matter more thoroughly together with the National
DepEd na may litrato doon ay si Bernard Moses, isang Historical Commission of the Philippines, so that we
Amerikano, who served in March 1900. I refuse to Secretary Buencamino issued a decree on October 19, can give justice and recognition to the first secretaries
believe that he was the first, for I have thought that the 1898 creating the Unibersidad Literaria de Filipinas, of DepEd.
first education secretary was a Filipino. another decree on October 24, 1898 establishing
Instituto Burgos, and another one on November 4, It will be most appropriate that, come June 30, 2022
When the Philippine nation was proclaimed on June 12, 1898 instructing the reopening of schools across the when the new administration succeeds, the portraits
1898, I am sure that a secretary of education was also country. As such, the NHCP recommends that the of the latest DepEd Secretary and the first DepEd
elected or appointed, if not particularly, then it should reckoning of the Secretary of Education shall begin Secretaries will be enshrined in the lobby of the Rizal
have been under a much larger body, when the Philippine with the Secretary of Fomento. Building and be given due recognition and honor.
Revolutionary Government was organized on June 23,
1898. When President Fidel Ramos issued Administrative With this information, one may ask, “Is it not proper Written for the 123rd Anniversary of the
Order no 322, s. 1997, he affirmed that DepEd's foundation and appropriate that the University of the Philippines Department of Education; June 2021
date is indeed June 23, 1898. So it could not be Bernard (UP) traces its establishment to the creation by the Photos from the National Library of the Philippines
Moses who was the first, kasi March 1900 sya nairecord. Felipe Buencamino, circa 1930s Philippine Revolutionary Government of Unibersidad
Sino kaya sya? Sino ang unang DepEd Secretary ng Pilipinas? Literaria de Filipinas in October 19, 1898?” Why did we
rather choose June 18, 1908 as UP’s foundation when
Dahil na rin sa kyuriosidad at kagustuhang maitama ang it was created by the American colonial government?
Watch the video
kasaysayan ng ating Kagawaran, kumunsulta ako sa aking After just a few days, he came back and gave me Pwedeng pagdebatihan ito ng mga dalubhasa sa kasaysayan.
message as read
kaibigan na si Dr. Rene Escalante, ang kasalukuyang mind-blowing bits of history. All of my initial online by Usec. Pascua
chairperson ng NHCP, para humanap ng mga sagot sa research and previous assumptions were wiped out Kaya ang unang DepEd Secretary ay si Felipe Buencamino
mahalagang impormasyong ito. with historical answers. na nagsilbi mula Setyembre 1898 hanggang Enero 1899. Ang

170 171
 PEOPLE BEHIND THE GABALDON RESTORATION PROJECT I’ve known you
Sec. Leonor Magtolis Briones
your untold stories
DepEd Secretary written nowhere
Engr. Alain Del. B. Pascua but heard through awning windows
DepEd Undersecretary for Administration
in times of war, you asked for harmony
Engr. Annabelle R. Pangan
Education Facilities Division Chief in times of peace, you wanted to fly
Engr. Luis G. Purisima Jr.
my wooden ceilings know
Engr. Marjorie H. Tiburcio
your dream to touch the heavens
Education Facilities Division Assistant Chiefs
to climb mountains and dive into the seas
Engr. Evangeline C. Seng Arch. Joel V. Rico
Arch. Felix F. Villanueva, Jr. Head Conservation Consultant I believed in you
Engr. Nehru Rainier P. Sarmiento
Engr. Raymund U. Alcazar Arch. Roberto G. Bayona my trusses, fret works, frames
Engr. Rommel L. Esplana Arch. Robert Benedict C. Hermoso
Engr. Levy T. Tatad Engr. Rodger D. Hernandez
every piece of me believed in you
Engr. Jason A. Almoite Arch. Enrico F. Lacsamana because I was here
Area Managers Technical Consultants
since the first time you knew how to write
Arch. Jet Raymond G. Alabaso Bryan Jim C. Bala
Arch. Jackson C. Macasieb Joyce Michaela G. Banda you read the first word of that book
Plans, Drawings, Details John Roniel A. Canimo
Leslie I. Estrao you smiled at your first love
Czarina Suzette D. Santiago Writers and Researchers
Kianna Areeje Gonzales you cried, you forgave, you learned
EFD Writers Christian G. Benavidez
Jel M. Bustalinio to be more human
Orlando V. Balbido George V. Cabig
Project Supervisor Photographers and Drone Pilots
as if I am a human
who wishes to stay
to hear more untold stories
to know your child
BOOK DEVELOPMENT TEAM as I’ve known you
Usec. Alain Del B. Pascua
Editor-in-Chief

Arch. Ferdinand A. Aguila Maia Lorlina S. Tañedo Orlando V. Balbido

Bryan Jim C. Bala
Maia Lorlina S. Tañedo
Editors
Engr. Annabelle R. Pangan
Engr. Marjorie H. Tiburcio
Arch. Jet Raymond G. Alabaso
Arch. Jackson C. Macasieb
EFD Coordinators
Project Coordinator Photo Editor
Arch. Joel V. Rico Bryan Jim C. Bala
Intet J. Victoriano Joyce Michaela G. Banda
Technical Consultant John Roniel A. Canimo
Leslie I. Estrao
Edmond M. Alegre Writers/Researchers
Graphic Designer

172 173
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 Conserve and Restore
GABALDONS
and other heritage school buildings!

Office of the Undersecretary for Administration

Department of Education
Facebook DepEd Tayo |176
Email: usec.admin@deped.gov.ph
Mobile +639 260320762 | Landline +626337203