South Cotabato, Philippines – Belle Corporation, a leisure property developer and affiliate of SM Investments Corporation, has announced a ₱100 million donation from the Melco Resorts (Philippines) Foundation Corporation to construct classroom buildings in 40 public schools across South Cotabato.
This initiative addresses a critical shortage, with reports indicating a need for 608 additional classrooms in the province.
Belle Corp. president and CEO Armin Antonio B. Raquel Santos emphasized the importance of education in alleviating poverty, stating, “The need for educational infrastructure, particularly in areas inhabited by the Blaan and T’boli indigenous communities, is pressing.”
The collaboration aims to build 80 classrooms, accommodating up to 4,000 students, to support local educational needs.
Construction has already begun, with eight classroom buildings completed in key areas such as Koronadal City and Tampakan.
The facilities are designed with accessibility features, including wheelchair ramps and modern amenities, enhancing the learning environment for students.
The remaining buildings are in advanced stages and are expected to be operational within the current school year.
