11/06/2025
Santi: Brigada Eskwela: A Collaborative Effort of IIEE Antique and Antique National School.
The sky wept a steady grey drizzle as we gathered at Antique National School (ANS) on June 10th, 2025. The air hung heavy with the scent of damp earth and anticipation. Brigada Eskwela, the nationwide school maintenance program, was in full swing, and the IIEE Antique chapter, along with ANS, was tackling a significant project: an overhaul of the school's electrical system. The assembly time for the following day was set for 8:30 AM. It was a task both challenging and rewarding, made more so by the persistent rain.
Miss Rhodbe Pandoy, the ANS coordinator, briefed us on the school's electrical needs. The old wiring was outdated and unreliable; many lights were flickering or burned out, posing a safety hazard. The IIEE team, led by President Cocoy Eraga and Pastor Sam Pagunsan, were ready for the task, dividing the responsibilities among the officers. Cocoy and Pastor Sam would oversee the electrical inspection, while Assistant Treasurer Kim Adrada and Secretary Maean Cepeda would handle the illumination testing. A larger team, including BOD Nic Nieves, Treasurer Arvile Naviamos , Bernard Ulit, and others, would focus on the installation of new electrical components. Assistant Auditor Christian Zabala was tasked with designing and arranging the Brigada Eskwela tarpaulin.
The rain continued through the day, turning the school grounds into a muddy landscape. Despite the challenging conditions, the energy was high. Japhet, Brian Joting , and Allen Gerald Vego, seasoned IIEE members with expertise in solar and other equipment, expertly guided the work, their experience a crucial asset in the ongoing electrical repairs. They were supported by a team of dedicated student volunteers: Christian Kurt Domingo, Jenefe Juliat, Jimwel Abasolo, and Ryan Pelingon, all eager to contribute their time and effort. Their youthful enthusiasm was contagious, a stark contrast to the grey skies above.
The generosity of various sponsors was essential to our success. Arturo Palacios Fontanilla II, a significant contributor to the IIEE Antique Chapter's "Oplan Dagitab," spearheaded the material donation drive. EDE Engineering, owned by Cocoy Eraga, provided 20 pieces of 18-watt fluorescent bulbs. Antonio Maglasang Lachica III, Hermie Tacogdoy, Pastor Sam Ning Belicena Pagunsan, Jugie Barcoma, Sir Nheill Macantan, Noel G Marfil, Arnel Cuevas, and Herbert Bulilan Acupan all contributed generous financial donations. Arjay Tadi of ANTECO provided significant financial support as well. Their support was incredibly important, especially given the challenges of the rainy season. Mr. Fontanilla also provided essential electrical materials.
Working under umbrellas and tarpaulins, the team toiled tirelessly, replacing faulty wiring, installing new lights, and making critical repairs. The constant rain made the work even more demanding, but the spirit of collaboration and commitment to improving the school's facilities kept everyone motivated. The camaraderie, a blend of experienced professionals and enthusiastic students, powered them through the day.
By the end of the day, despite the relentless rain, a significant portion of the electrical system upgrade was complete. The school was noticeably brighter, the newly installed lights casting a warm glow that seemed to defy the dreary weather. The Brigada Eskwela was a success, a testament to the power of collaboration, community spirit, and the dedication of everyone involved. The improved electrical system would benefit the students and faculty for years to come, a silent yet enduring legacy of their hard work under the June rain.
