*Wash in Schools (WinS Program)
The DepEd Order No. 10, s. 2016 states that the Department of Education issued the enclosed Policy and Guidelines for the comprehensive Water, Sanitation and Hygiene in Schools (WinS) Program for the promotion of correct hygiene and sanitation practices among school children and a clean environment in and arounds schools to keep learners safe and healthy.
In response to this, the Division of Parañaque conducted a Division Orientation and Planning Workshop for the Implementation of the WASH in Schools (WinS) Program last September 26-27, 2017 at Fourth Estate Elementary School. The school heads and the WASH in Schools (WinS) coordinators were given the DepED Wash in School Monitoring Form to accomplish.
In Baclaran National High School, the former school head, Ms. Gina, together with the WinS Coordinator, Mrs. Leslie A. Castaloni organized a Technical Working Group (TWG) for immediate response and implementation of the program. At first, there were many challenges and difficulties encountered, but through the support of school head and cooperation of the TWG and the Teachers, students, SSG, PTA and other stakeholders, the program was implemented.
The school and its stakeholders really exerted some effort to implement the program. Different strategies were done to respond to the various areas of WASH in Schools – water access, sanitation, hygiene, deworming and health education.
From 2018 to present, the Brigada Eskwela/WinS Coordinator, requested for a handwash facility from the PTA President, Mrs. Teresita C. Acuña. The school head, Ms. Gina N. Zapico requested also a group handwash facility from Maynilad. The PTA President also donated comfort rooms for the school. Other Stakeholders like the Alumni, PTA, LGU and Baclaran community donated WinS Supplies – toothbrush, toothpaste, sanitary pads, soap, cotton and the like. The handwashing and toothbrushing activities were materialized. The toothbrushes and toothpaste were given to the students for free. Sanitary Pads were also available at the Clinic and Guidance Office and they were given for free also. Daily cleaning of the comfort rooms, handwash facilities and all other areas of the school was given much importance. Deworming was done semi-annually.
This SY 2021- 2022 Ms. Erzenia P. De Guzman, the school principal, gives her full support also to the WinS Program. The new handwashing facilities were added in the Garden Area and all corridors from second floor to fourth floor of the school.
The consistent support and concerted effort given by the stakeholders is certainly of great help in making the WinS Program in Baclaran National High School, a success, a reality.
“Ngiting wagi,
Kamay na maputi
Katawang walang dungis
Kapaligirang malinis
Dulot ay tagumpay
At masaganang buhay.”
