In response to the rising number of influenza-like illness (ILI) cases, the Angeles City Government has officially launched a city-wide disinfection and building inspection initiative for public schools and day care centers. The campaign, spearheaded by Mayor Carmelo “Jon” Lazatin II, began on October 16, 2025, at Gueco Balibago Elementary School.
The initiative is a joint effort by the City Health Office’s City Epidemiology and Surveillance Unit (CESU), the City Sanitation Team, and the City Engineering Office. While sanitation teams focused on deep cleaning and disinfection of school facilities, city engineers simultaneously conducted structural assessments to ensure the safety of school buildings.
According to CESU officials, this proactive measure aims to curb the spread of seasonal illnesses among students and staff while also safeguarding them from potential structural hazards. The inspection includes checking the integrity of classrooms, roofs, water systems, and other critical infrastructure.
Mayor Lazatin emphasized that student health and safety remain a top priority. “We want to make sure our schools are not only clean but also structurally sound. This is our responsibility to every learner and educator in the city,” he said during the launch of the program.
The Department of Education (DepEd) Angeles City Division is working closely with the city government to schedule class suspensions by school clusters. This strategic approach ensures that disinfection and inspections can proceed efficiently without major disruptions to the school calendar.
Other public schools and day care centers across the city are set to undergo similar procedures in the following days. The city plans to cover all facilities in a phased manner, with updates and findings to be reported regularly by the concerned offices.
Parents, teachers, and school administrators have welcomed the initiative, recognizing its importance in maintaining a safe and healthy learning environment. The Angeles City LGU continues to urge the public to remain vigilant and supportive of health and safety campaigns for the benefit of the entire educational community.
