Pampanga First District Representative Carmelo "Pogi" Lazatin Jr. has taken a significant step toward advancing educational opportunities in his district by filing House Bill No. 8878. This proposed legislation, submitted on April 16, 2026, seeks to establish the Mabalacat City Science High School, a dedicated institution that will operate under the supervision of the Department of Education.
Strengthening Science and Technology Education
Lazatin emphasized the critical importance of bolstering science and technology education in the region. He highlighted that investing in STEM-focused programs is essential for preparing students to compete on a global scale. The proposed school aims to provide students with access to advanced education, featuring improved facilities, state-of-the-art equipment, and enhanced technological resources.
Alignment with National Education Policies
The bill aligns seamlessly with the Enhanced Basic Education Act of 2013, which promotes flexible and responsive curricula, including specialized tracks in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. This alignment ensures that the Mabalacat City Science High School will adhere to national standards while addressing local educational needs.
Addressing Educational Gaps in Pampanga
Currently, Pampanga is home to science high schools such as the Angeles City Science High School. However, Lazatin pointed out that Mabalacat City lacks a stand-alone science high school under the Department of Education. The establishment of this new institution is designed to expand access to advanced education in the first district, filling this gap and providing more students with opportunities for specialized learning.
Funding and Implementation
The Department of Education will oversee the project implementation, with funding secured through the annual General Appropriations Act. This approach ensures a structured and sustainable financial plan for the school's development and ongoing operations.
Lazatin's Ongoing Commitment to Education
This initiative is part of Lazatin's broader efforts to enhance learning infrastructure in the district. In August 2025, he advocated for P200 million to fund computer laboratories in 19 public high schools. More recently, earlier this year, he announced P40 million in funding for Mabalacat City and P30 million for Magalang from the Department of Public Works and Highways, specifically for the construction of computer labs. These actions underscore his dedication to improving educational resources and outcomes for students in the region.
