DepEd works double time to fix Cosme-hit Zambales schools

MANILA, Philippines - A day before President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo was to visit the area, government engineers in Zambales province on Thursday worked double time in restoring schools damaged by tropical storm "Cosme." Radio dzBB reported Thursday noon that the Department of Education's central office sent an engineering team to head the "double time" efforts, especially in Sta. Cruz town. Sta. Cruz town was among the hardest-hit areas when "Cosme" lashed Northern Luzon last weekend. Government engineer Oliver Hernandez said they aim to finish at least 20 percent before school starts. Engineers have a P50-million budget to prepare 338 classrooms for the coming school year. Hernandez admitted they may have a hard time achieving their goal because the rainy season had already started. On the other hand, the provincial Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) belied the damage to the schools stemmed from the use of substandard materials. Meanwhile, preparations continued for President Arroyo's scheduled visit to the town on Friday, with local authorities setting up tents and sprucing up the town plaza. - GMANews.TV