HISTORY

Flora A. Ylagan High School

Flora A. Ylagan High School (FAYHS) was organized as an annex of Quezon City High School in 1970. A pre-fabricated building that was built adjacent Pinyahan Elementary School housed the first set of students, all year levels, from her mother school. Mrs. Severina Gonzales was the Head Teacher-In-Charge with nine (9) teaching force. Like a child learning to walk, the school pursued its goal and struggled to improve its physical facilities.

Three years later it became an independent school by virtue of City Resolution No. 949, s. 1973. The Resolution was penned and submitted to the City Council by Councilors Stephen Sarino, Jesus Perlas and Ronald Kookooritchin upon the recommendation of then City Schools Superintendent Comemoracion Concepcion and later on approved by then Quezon City Mayor Tomas B. Amoranto, permanently and legally naming the school as Flora A. Ylagan High School. Dr. Flora Amoranto Ylagan was an educator who devoted fifty years (50) of her life to teaching. She founded one of the leading schools for teachers, The National Teachers College, NTC.

Mrs. Lumen G. Velasco became the second Head Teacher-In Charge from 1972 – 1974. During her administration, another building with three classrooms was constructed. This housed the library, property room and the practical arts room. Likewise, a makeshift canteen was constructed.

From 1974 – 1976, Mrs. Hera D. Elagado became the Head Teacher In-Charge. During these years, the makeshift canteen improved and two makeshift rooms were added. A male school head took over the position of Head Teacher In-Charge from 1977 – 1980 in the person of Mr. William S. Barcena. Through his initiative, two more makeshift rooms were added which greatly eased the problem of classroom congestion. In February 1980, Mrs. Soledad J. Dilao was detailed as Supervisor In-Charge. Though she stayed only for five months; she did a notable accomplishment for the school, the construction of the school gate through the Trash-to-Cash Project. The late Miss Aurora B. Taguba was the first school principal to be assigned to Flora A.Ylagan High School. She was the administrator from 1980 – 1981. It was during her term when the school received an award as the second Cleanest School in Quezon City. Mrs. Virginia J. Avila came in as principal from 1981 – 1984. It was at this juncture when FAYHS was beleaguered by a sort of tug-of-war with affluent families who claimed possession of a large chunk of the school site. Some rooms had to be demolished with the awarding of a portion of the school site to the claimant families. Two new buildings were constructed during her time – the new Home Economics building and additional rooms to replace the demolished rooms.

The tedious task of seeking a permanent site to construct concrete school buildings for FAYHS had begun. On August 15, 1984, Dr. Corazon D. Fontillas took over as Department Head In-Charge. Faced with the reality of contending with the “freeze” on constructing new buildings and/or repairing existing one, she doggedly pursued the task began by her immediate predecessor. It is to her credit that the P.T.A. Officers, notably the president, Mrs. Elizabeth Macabinquil, was organized; who were very supportive of her goal of expanding and of acquiring a permanent site and buildings for the FAYHS students. Her administration witnessed the transformation of FAYHS from a depressed, deprived, underserved (DDU) school to an improved one.

November 5, 1987 shall always remain vivid, memorable, and framed in the minds and hearts of teachers, students, and parents of FAYHS. After 17 years of experiencing the swirl of dust in summer and the pool of murky water on rainy days, the long cherished dreams of having a permanent school site and a new school building became a reality. The School was transferred to Malakas Street, Pinyahan, Quezon City.

On December 22, 1989, Mrs. Victoria L. Velasco was assigned as the new school principal. She successfully implemented the DECS’ Guidelines on the Conduct of the Graduation ceremony for school Year 1989 – 1990. As the administrator, she emphasized to all teachers that the affectivity and efficiency of the performance of all school personnel are hinged upon the total development of the students. This includes having a new school uniform for the students, which was designed by Mr. Arturo Fernandez, Science teacher and the CAT Commandant during that time.

By virtue of City Ordinance No. NC-130, s. 1990, the Philippine Mental Health Association (PMHA) Road was temporarily closed of January 22, 1990. This road ran within the campus which was very dangerous to both the students and teacher. Its permanent closure was made possible due to the concerted efforts and cooperation of Barangay Pinyahan council and the FAYHS Parent-Teachers Association. Through City Ordinance No. SP-62, S-93, PMHA was permanently closed and became part of the school grounds via Barangay Pinyahan Resolution No.5, s.-89 and FAYHS PTA Resolution No. 1, S-88.

The year 1991 witnessed the emergence of a new administration with the coming in of no less than a General Education Supervisor (Values Education) In-Charge, Mrs. Teresita V. Dimagmaliw. She pursued the policy of the previous administrator and maximized the utilization of school resources. The improvements of the school facilities as well as classroom management were her priorities. School year 1992 – 1993, a new landscaped school grounds with cemented pathways and a permanent stage hallmarks her administration.

Miss Thelma S. Cruz, General Education Supervisor- Social Studies, was the officer In-Charge of the school from September 1992 to June 1993. Like her predecessors, she was mindful and cognizant in the maintenance of quality education through improved teaching strategies, and the use of appropriate and relevant instructional materials and facilities. After ten months she was recalled at Quezon City Division Office.

On June 14, 1993, Mrs. Florfina N. Torres assumed as Head Teacher III In-Charge of the school. Upon her assumption she anchored her administrative-educational plan on two basic aspects. The first aspect is to adhere strictly to the educational guidelines set by the Department of Education Culture and Sports that is to provide quality education. The second aspect is to maintain the physical facilities development and continue adding more school rooms for the growing student population.

In December 1993, the one-storey two-room building, construction of which started during Mrs. Dimagmaliw’s term was completed, together with the one-storey three-room building upon the assumption of office of Mrs. Torres.

In 1994, ordinance No.SP-0162, S-94 amends Section 1 of Ordinance No.62, s.93 entitled “The PMHA ROAD is hereby closed permanently for used as school grounds of FAYHS, Barangay Pinyahan, Quezon City, such that said area shall be used as the site of a new school building for the FAYHS.

January, 1994 was a lucky month and year of the FAYHS, as well as her new school administrator. Mrs. Florfina N. Torres assumed the position as secondary principal II of the school, and at the same time the school was awarded by the Quezon City government a three-storey twelve-room building. The construction of the building started in March, 1994 and was inaugurated on February 28, 1995.The Mathay Hall has caused the acceptance and accommodation of more enrollees without incurring the problem of overcrowding of students in all year levels.

It was also during her time that the ICT Subject began with just 2 computers under the TLE Department. Mrs. Torres assigned Ms. Lynne S. Notario as ICT teacher. Another accomplishment of the school that time was, two students were qualified in the National Level Contest for Journalism Class trained by Mrs. Fely Iman. The term of Mrs. Florfina N. Torres has established enviable milestone on education achievements, propelled to the development of highly-competitive students and quality graduates.

Mrs. Angelita G. Regis was assigned as Head Teacher In-Charged on August 5, 1998. Early on, it became readily apparent that her stewardship of FAYHS was action-oriented. Before long everyone noticed the remarkable changes: facilities were improved in the school clinic, the H.E Practice House, the Guidance Center, and the Principal’s office. More significantly the result of the Division Achievement Tests, the academic/skills competitions, and even the CAT and athletics indicated improved performances last school year, making it a banner year for FAYHS. As a dynamic school administrator, Mrs. Regis gives premium to the repair and maintenance of school facilities. Although, she stayed in FAYHS for just one year and a half, a lot of changes and improvements were visibly noticed in the school.

In the 89^th Regular Session of the Quezon City Council, Ordinance No. SP-1316, s.2003 was amended by Ordinance No.1381, s.2004, where Flora A. Ylagan High School was covered by TRANSFER CERTIFICATE OF TITLE No. RT-30115 (258278) issued by the Registry of Deeds and registered in the name of Quezon City government from their current classification to an open space.

Miss Amelia B. Yapit was assigned as Principal of the school on February 14, 2000 up to her retirement on October 15, 2005. She implemented discipline and strict rules and regulations as well as spearheading the repainting and renovation of the school buildings. She also initiated the construction of FAYHS’ 2.5M Multi-Purpose Hall and Covered Court through the generosity of Cong. Nanette Castelo-Daza contracted out by the National Housing Authority, which served as the venue for school programs, used as a basketball court, athletics competitions, Press Conferences, or even classrooms. The graduating students of batch 2004 were the first to use as a venue for graduation ceremonies. It was also during her stint that Quezon City Mayor Feliciano Belmonte Jr. awarded the 1.9M contract for the fencing of FAYHS vicinity near V. Luna Road. A covered path walk was constructed in front of the school to protect the students from rain and heat, a project of then Barangay Captain Leoncio Cabato.

Miss Yapit implemented the Mentoring Class for teachers. She assigned Ms. Gloria L. Biri as mentor. Mentoring class happens once a week for teachers who are interested to join and free during the class.

Mrs. Josefina R. Bejasa, English Department Head, was assigned as Officer In Charge for one month, from October 16, 2005 until the new Principal came in the person of Mrs. Victoria A. Mortel on November 15, 2005. She envisioned putting FAYHS among the top 10 performing schools in the Division of Quezon City. True to her promise, FAYHS ranked 3^rd in the National Achievement Test (NAT) and 5^th in the Division Achievement Test in 2006. With these accomplishments, she formulated the Vision and Mission of the school. Another project she pioneered was the Alternative Learning System (ALS) for out of school youth and drop outs of the community. She assigned Ms. Lynne S. Notario and Ms. Catherine R. Barrientos as Instructional Managers. She sent them to trainings to start with the said Non-formal System of Education in the school. Mrs. Mortel also organized the School Governing Council (SGC) to tap the linkages with Government Organizations (GO), Non- Government Organizations, Alumni, parents and barangay leaders. Through her effort, FAYHS gets a free supply of potable water, a project of Lingap Eskwela Program sponsored by Manila Water Company. She also initiated the improvement of the physical facilities of the school and renovation of comfort rooms.

“With great power comes great responsibility” is the guiding principle of Dr. Eladio H. Escolano, School Principal for two years, September 2007-October 2009. He envisioned putting FAYHS to greater heights as he hopes to surpass her present achievements.

To ensure quality education, he sent teachers to attend seminars and urged all qualified teachers to get promoted. Two Head Teacher items were re-classed; three Teacher III, and one Teacher II were promoted. The In-Service Training for teachers was a success. He was also very particular with the students’ welfare. He made around from time to time checking classes. That was why it was not surprising to note that FAYHS ranks 4^th in the National Achievement Test, 2^nd in Division Achievement Test and also 2^nd in the National Career Assessment Examination for SY 2007-2008. FAYHS has made a strong impact not only in the Division of Quezon City but in the National Capital Region as a whole when the STALWART, the official publication of the school, ranked 2^nd as Best Editorial Page in the 2008 National Secondary Press Conference, and with its many winnings in different competitions.

It was also during his time that the first Search for Most Outstanding Teacher, School Level happened. It was Mrs. Marilyn Tablang who was awarded during the Recognition Day as the Most Outstanding Teacher SY2008-2009 of FAYHS, with Mrs. Marie Bernadette R. Tadeo as 1^st Runner Up was, Miss Lucrecia Gigawin as 2^nd Runner Up and Miss Lynne S. Notario 3^rd Runner Up. It was indeed an inspiration to all teachers.

Notably, FAYHS has highly improved this year. The principal has initiated the repair and rehabilitation of the school: the installation of flooring and ceramic tiles, drain and faucet, additional units of comfort room, electrical fixtures at Mathay Building and Main Building; installation of 10 exhaust fans at SB Building and installation of aluminum door at the Computer Lab. He also received a computer unit for library’s use from Hon. Vice Mayor Herbert Bautista.

A new Principal came on October 12, 2009. Endowed with potentials and gifted with sense of responsibility, FAYHS new Principal, Mrs. Ruby U. De Jesus has made innumerable transformation to the school. Her top priority was to strictly implement the rules and regulations of the school compelling students to come on time as well as the teachers. Putting things into their proper perspective, on May 2010 she initiated the relocation of the Principal’s Office to the heart of the school so that everybody was visible to her eyes. She then followed the renovation of the teachers’ center which now looks presentable with a hanging cabinet in each room. The classrooms were properly ventilated as she urged the Barangay Captain to donate 20 electric fans. The Registrar’s Office, Property Room, Guidance Office, Science Laboratory and the Library are now located in a more prominent places and are now more organized. Her most dominant project was the campus make over and improved the beautification of the school.

During her time an AVR and E-Library were put up. The school has acquired 10 units of fully functional computers to be used in the E-Library. Through her much prodding to the alumni, batch ’75 donated the equipment for the Audio-Visual Room (AVR) and it was inaugurated on December 11, 2010 during the “Pasasalamat of Batch ‘75”. The AVR is used as multi-function room with complete facilities.

Mrs. De Jesus has always been very supportive to the teachers. She encouraged them to attend seminars and upgraded their skills joining workshops. She has been a source of inspiration; she even pushed one Values Education teacher to join the Search for Outstanding Values Educator in the National Level. Lo and behold that teacher, Ms. Catherine R. Barrientos won the 2^nd Place on November 26, 2010. She also urged teachers to rise to higher ranks, as three of the faculty became Head Teacher III, two as Teacher III, and two as Teacher II in 2011.

Her wit was evident which the students also noticed. She was always been there in all students’ activities particularly the SSG and during competitions in all subject areas. During her stint, numerous awards were garnered by the students in the field of journalism, sports, skills and academics. She inspire the teachers and students to be at top10 performing schools in the Division of Quezon City…FAYHS ranks 6^th in the National Achievement Test and 7^th in the Division Achievement Test SY 2010-2011.

Another project which Mrs. De Jesus initiated was the Project BIGKIS (Bata’y Iligtas, Gabayan, Kupkupin, Ingatan at Sanayin) in compliance to DepEd’s Dropout Reduction Program (DORP), where she assigned Ms. Catherine R. Barrientos, Head Teacher III of Values Education as the Project Coordinator. The Project aimed to provide interventions to care for the students who are at risk of dropping out. The Project was adjudged as one of the ten finalists among the schools in the whole division. She also supported the Alternative Learning System (ALS). She assigned Mr. Gregorio P. Antonio to be the IM under SB ALS.

Mrs. De Jesus’ charming relation to the NGOs particularly to the Barangay Officials and the Alumni had gone a long way in the success of the school’s improvement. The first Grand Alumni Homecoming in November 27, 2010 was held and had helped the school and the students with their series of activities.

At the peak of FAYHS unabated success, came the new Principal, Mr. Maximo P. Placio on April 24, 2012. This new principal envisions putting the school to greater heights as he hopes to surpass its present achievements.

Having assumed the position as principal of FAYHS for a couple of months. Mr. Placio has already captured the hearts of the students and teachers alike. His unwavering support and sense of commitment created an atmosphere of pleasant relationship among teachers and students who are willing and eager to work hand in hand with him in improving the school. As a hands on principal, he sees to it that the welfare of the students are secured every dismissal by posting barangay tanods near the vicinity of the school and opening the gate at the back of the LTO for students’ convenient exit. He is also conducted regular visits in the residences and encourages drop-out students to go back to school by giving remedial classes. His untiring support to all schools’ activities made the school among the top 10 performing schools in the division. The school paper, both in English and Filipino made it to the NCR qualifiers, with Mrs. Helen P. Ingeniero as the trainer. As he continued to implement the project BIGKIS, he also introduced the APDO (Adopt Potential Dropout) in support to the project. With the inspiration he gave to the Project Coordinator and to the team, their collaborative effort made FAYHS DORP 3^rd Place in the Search for Best DORP (SII) in the Division.

Upon coming to school, the principal’s top most priority was the beautification of the school. Renovations on physical facilities have been undertaken. Mr. Placio’s creativity made the campus more conducive and convenient place for the students and teachers. He personally designed the ornaments in the school façade. Positioning of flower boxes in front of the main building so that the school will look more presentable when visitors come. Classrooms were divided, fixed and repainted so that students in the second year level will be more comfortable. The city government funded for the repair of the ceiling, gutter, CR and other facilities that needed to be fixed. The repainting of the school building was also done and the improvement of Science Laboratory and Belmonte Building through the FAYHS Alumni Association, Inc. Adopt a Room Program.

Sometime in February 2013, the school was chosen to be the recipient of a project sponsored by Hon. Jericho Petilla, the Secretary of Department of Energy and his wife Ms. Frances Anne Petilla, called ICOT-P (Income Creating Opportunities through Technology Project). As preparation, they renovated the Computer Laboratory and donated 40 computer sets, 2 air condition units, projectors and other equipment for the program. The project aims to give opportunities to students who cannot go to College. TESDA affiliated trainers were hired by Sec. Petilla to teach 40 interested 4^th year students on computer programming. The training is coordinated by Mrs. Ester C. Nituda, 4^th Year Level Chairman/Head Teacher of Math Department, Ms.Lynne S. Notario, ICT Teacher and Ms. Catherine R. Barrientos, Head Teacher of Values Education Department. The Program is still continuing at present

In April 2013, in compliance with the DepEd Memorandum that each school has to conduct a Science and English Summer Camp for Grade 7, the FAYHS conducted the First Science and English Camp headed by Mrs. Emma S. Ponce, Head Teacher of Science Department and Mrs. Helen P. Ingeniero, Head of English Department. Mr. Placio was in full support to the said activity.

A lot of physical changes done in the school and it was always a joy for Mr. Placio’s to see the students using the facilities of the school to help them in their studies. One of the physical changes during his time was the mural paint at the perimeter fence of the school. It was sponsored by The Rotary Club of Quezon City Central. They made this project possible through a Mural Painting Division Contest. They invited the Principals of each school in Quezon City to allow their students to join the said contest in Flora A. Ylagan High School. Mrs. Marie Bernadette R. Tadeo, the Adviser of the FAYHS Student Council was the Coordinator of this project. Electric fans for the classrooms and for the covered court were donated by SM Hypermart.

An assiduous mother, 19^th School Head of FAYHS was Dr. Emma C. Quintana. She assumed office from May 12, 2014 to September 14, 2015. She was a principal who always kept her composure in whatever situation she was in. Her first agenda was to put everything in order. Students should follow the school’s rules and regulation, most importantly stay away from vices especially illegal drugs. She tied up with QCAADAC and pursued the parents of students who were into drugs to get rehabilitated. She also encouraged students to show up their talents by allowing every Department to have their monthly culminating program showcasing students’ talents. The in-service training for teachers was held every semester - upgrading and rejuvenating them.

The change agent, fueled by passion and inspires passion in others came on September 15, 2015, the 20^th school Head of the school, Mrs. Ma. Gina M. Rocena. Her message during the welcome program left an impact to the whole school community. She is focused on the academic achievement of the students, class monitoring, and saving the students from dropping out. Arriving at school as early as six in the morning and leaves the same at past five in the afternoon - she is very visible around the campus. Her ready smile has made teachers and the students comfortable to approach and talk to her.