Davide gives lot to Argao school

CEBU, Philippines - He had an option to sell his 5,000-square-meter lot, but Ramon Magsaysay awardee Dr. Romulo Davide opted to donate it to Colawin Elementary School in Argao town.

Davide turned over the lot yesterday to coincide with the 111st birthday of his father, the late Hilario Davide Sr.

He believes that the donation would give opportunity for the young people to gain experience and knowledge in farming, and develop their skills in the field.

The property was part of his share from his parents’ legitime.

Davide said what he would have earned by selling the lot would just be temporary so he decided to donate it since it can still benefit the students in the future.

He added that he is also dreaming of a school of science and arts in Colawin Elementary School where students would be trained on scientific farming techniques and earn from it.

Davide had been doing farm work during his childhood years and helping himself to get through college.

The turnover ceremony was attended by the officials of the Department of Education spearheaded by Secretary Armin Luistro, and the Cebu Provincial Government headed by Davide’s nephew, Governor Hilario Davide III.

Fatima Solis, the principal of Colawin Elementary School, expressed thanks for the donation.

She noted that the lot donated would be utilized as a vegetable area to be established by the students themselves so they can learn and apply the farming techniques.

It was Dr. Davide who initiated the farmer-scientist training program in 1994. The program trains farmers and equip them with knowledge on sustainable agriculture.  (FREEMAN)