ALANGALANG, LEYTE — For many rural students in the province of Leyte, a reliable mode of transportation can be the deciding factor between completing their secondary education or dropping out. Addressing daily commute challenges, the Local Government Unit (LGU) of Alangalang has continued its innovative Libreng Sakay Program for Learners at Risk of Dropping Out providing students with personal bicycles instead of conventional school buses.
Highlighting the initiative during her 8th State of the Municipality Address (SOMA), Alangalang Mayor Lovell Ann Yu-Castro emphasized that physical access to school grounds remains just as critical as providing quality learning materials and classroom infrastructure.
“This initiative is more than just providing bicycles. It is about bringing education closer to our learners, easing the burden on families, and giving students who face difficulties in going to school a better opportunity to continue their education,” Mayor Yu-Castro stated.
“The students’ stories remind us that sometimes, a simple intervention can make a life-changing difference.”
Targeted Support Across Four Public High Schools
In 2026, the municipal government turned over 35 bicycles to qualified student-beneficiaries selected across four public secondary schools in Alangalang:
Alangalang National High School
Alangalang Agro-Industrial School
Ana G. Yu National High School
Mariano Salazar National High School
Unlike traditional, route-bound municipal bus systems, the bicycle distribution grants learners direct independence, allowing them to navigate rural roads without relying on expensive public utility vehicle fares or walking long distances under harsh weather conditions.
Easing Family Expenses And Improving School Attendance
For the student recipients, receiving a bicycle provides both immediate financial relief for their households and renewed motivation to stay in school.
“The bicycle is a big help in my education. I no longer have to spend money on transportation or walk long distances every day. My family can save money, and I can attend school more regularly,” shared John Erick Laitan, a student beneficiary from Alangalang Agro-Industrial School. “For me, this is not just a bicycle but an opportunity to continue my education and achieve my dreams in life.”
By targeting learners specifically identified as at risk of dropping out, Alangalang's local administration continues to address socio-economic barriers to education, demonstrating how practical community-level transport solutions can safeguard academic retention across Leyte.
