A new academic building was unveiled Wednesday at Balay Dangupan, honoring the late former President Rodrigo Duterte’s enduring commitment to children’s welfare and education, Manila Bulletin reported.
The facility, named the Rodrigo Duterte Academic Building, was officially inaugurated by Acting Mayor Sebastian Z. Duterte and Acting Vice Mayor Rodrigo Duterte II. Construction began in March 2024 — marking the former President’s birthday — and was completed a year later.
Balay Dangupan, a city-operated shelter for children in crisis, now expands its role by offering an improved educational space. The new academic building symbolizes the late president’s deep concern for the youth, especially those affected by abuse or abandonment.
“Let us continue with life and with what PRRD started,” said Mayor Duterte in a heartfelt message to the children during the event. “It is our responsibility to continue what he started… Go to school so that your lives will be better. Don’t worry, I will send you to school.”
Vice Mayor Rodrigo Duterte II, the former president’s grandson, described the project as a powerful tribute. “They would open their doors as a symbol of his enduring commitment to education and child welfare,” he said, acknowledging the collective effort behind the project.
Julie Dayaday, head of the City Social Welfare and Development Office, expressed gratitude and recalled how the elder Duterte consistently supported Balay Dangupan since its inception. “We will never forget his legacy,” she added.
For years, Balay Dangupan has served as a haven for children recovering from trauma, with many former residents now thriving, some even working abroad. Local leaders, child protection advocates, and long-time Duterte supporters were present at the event to witness the tribute to a leader whose compassion for vulnerable children left a lasting mark.
