ORANI, Bataan – Orani Mayor Efren E. Pascual, Jr. admitted last Monday that the Municipal Government of Orani had been toying with the idea of transferring the Orani North Elementary School (ONES) to other place to give way for the possible establishment of a mall or tourism-oriented facilities.
In an interview in his office, the former Bataan vice governor said although it would be a “sad” development not only on his part but also to Orani folks in general, the government must move on with the flow of progress. The ONES has already acquired sentimental and heritage values for the past and present generation.
“It is not only Orani North that may be affected by some changes but the other schools nearby because we plan to put schools together in one place,” Pascual said.
He justified the transfer of ONES facilities by saying that the present place is now crowded and accident-prone to school children due to heavy traffic during rush hour. He mentioned the place at the St. Patrick School as the possible replacement of the school facilities. The said place also located along the main artery of Orani is much bigger than the present compound.
Pascual explained though that the move would require a House Bill through the sheer effort of Congresswoman Geraldine Roman to facilitate the transfer given that ONES belongs to the Department of Education.
Informed that the proposal might be opposed by parents, Board Member Rey Ibe said “In every move for change, there is always an opposition.” But Ibe said there should be a good load of explanation about the pros and cons of the proposal to crystallize the issue and enlighten the public.
