In a swift response to prevent the spread of Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease (HFMD), the city government has successfully completed disinfection efforts at 106 schools—51 public and 55 private—on February 1, 2025.
Led by Mayor Carmelo “Pogi” Lazatin Jr., the initiative is part of the city’s intensified measures to curb the spread of HFMD after suspected cases were reported in local schools.
School officials expressed their appreciation for the city’s quick action to prioritize the health and safety of students.
Lucky Paul David, Principal of Abelardo G. Tinio Elementary School, stressed the significance of the local government’s prompt response. “This is a significant step in protecting our learners from HFMD. It shows that our local government is a reliable partner, not just in education but in safeguarding the health of Angeleño children,” David said.
Hermes Vargas, Principal of Francis G. Nepomuceno Memorial High School, also commended the city’s proactive efforts. “As a public school official, I appreciate the initiative of the local government of Angeles City under Mayor Lazatin’s leadership. This shows they stand with us in ensuring the safety of our learners, teachers, staff, and even parents. I hope this effort continues—hats off!” Vargas remarked.
Dr. Abdon Aguilar, Principal of Sapangbato National High School, expressed gratitude for the city’s commitment to public health. “On behalf of the entire Sapangbato National High School community, I extend our heartfelt thanks to Mayor Lazatin for prioritizing the health and safety of our students, teachers, and staff. Your initiative to disinfect schools against HFMD reflects your dedication to both public health and education,” Aguilar said. He added that the measure provides reassurance to parents about their children’s safety.
Cherry Hipolito, Principal of Tacondo Elementary School, also praised the efforts. “The city’s proactive actions have greatly contributed to safeguarding the health of our students, faculty, and staff. With continued support, we’re confident we can prevent the spread of HFMD and maintain a safe, healthy environment for all,” Hipolito stated.
Barangay officials also expressed their gratitude for the swift action taken by the city. “Maraming salamat po sa lahat ng binigay n’yong prayoridad sa aming barangay,” said Kap. Jessie Masbang of Barangay Cutud. Meanwhile, Kap. Ma. Corazon Alejandrino of Barangay Pandan thanked the disinfection teams for their dedication: “Sa lahat po ng bumubuo ng disinfection team, sa serbisyong may puso at pag-priority sa kaligtasan ng mga tao, dakal pung salamat.”
The disinfection efforts were led by several teams, including those from the Angeles City Barangay Outreach, Angeles City Environment and Natural Resources Office, the City Health Office, the Sanitation Division, the Environmental Management System, and the Angeles City Traffic Development Office.
The operation was overseen by Chief Adviser IC Calaguas and Executive Assistant IV Reina Manuel, with logistical support provided by the General Services Office, led by Evangeline Malonzo.
While most schools participated in the scheduled disinfection, a few private institutions, including Angeles Adventist Elementary School, Pax Et Lumen International Academy Inc., and Building Block International Academy Inc., were closed during the process.
City Health Officer Dr. Verona Guevarra clarified that the city is using Anolyte, an advanced, safe, effective, and eco-friendly disinfectant solution, to ensure thorough sanitation while minimizing health risks for students.
With a continued focus on health and safety, the city is also planning to extend its disinfection efforts to all day care centers starting on February 3, 2025.
