Classroom Pantry Supports Iligan City Learners
ILIGAN CITY – A dedicated teacher has revived the spirit of the community pantry — this time, a classroom pantry. As the school year 2025–2026 begins, Teacher Melanie Figueroa of Hinaplanon National High School launched a “classroom pantry” for her Grade 10 advisory students.
Instead of food, the classroom pantry is stocked with essential school supplies such as notebooks, pens, paper, and even large staplers — all available for students to use. Many of the items were generously donated by her friends abroad and sent through balikbayan boxes. Teacher Melanie shared that her goal is to support her students and ease the financial burden on their families.
She explained that while the original idea was for students to return the supplies after using them, some take the items home — which she understands. Because of this, she regularly refills the shelves. She also shared that she was touched and surprised to learn that large staplers were among the most requested items.
In welcoming her students, she expressed her hopes for a school year filled with growth, purpose, and memorable experiences for everyone.
In recognition of her efforts, Teacher Melanie was honored by the Office of the Ombudsman in Northern Mindanao with the “Ordinary People Doing Extraordinary Acts” award. The recognition highlights her commitment to honesty, integrity, and public service.
Beyond the classroom pantry, she also leads impactful student support programs such as “Laptop Para sa Pangarap” (Laptop for a Dream) and “Adopt-a-Student.” Through these initiatives, she continues to make a difference in the lives of young learners, proving that small acts of kindness can create a lasting impact in education.
Meanwhile, a community pantry is a simple, informal setup where people can freely give and take essential items like food, hygiene products, or school supplies. It follows the principle: “Give what you can, take what you need.”
Community pantries became especially popular in the Philippines during the COVID-19 pandemic, when many families struggled to afford basic necessities. These pantries — often found in neighborhoods, schools, or sidewalks — were run by volunteers and became symbols of bayanihan, the Filipino spirit of helping one another in times of need.