A significant milestone in the continuing pursuit of better and more responsive education services was celebrated as the Department of Education – Schools Division of Gingoog City officially marked the Turnover Ceremony of its new Schools Division Office (SDO) Building on October 6, 2026, at the DepEd Complex, Sitio CIVOLEG, Brgy. Lunotan, Gingoog City.

The celebration began with a Eucharistic Celebration and Thanksgiving Mass, presided over by Rev. Fr. Manases Amanense, SJ, followed by the blessing of the new building—an occasion of gratitude, thanksgiving, and renewed commitment to the education community of Gingoog City.

The ceremony brought together all Division personnel, school heads, barangay officials, education stakeholders, partner agencies, and representatives from the Local Government Unit of Gingoog City, who gathered to witness this important milestone.

Also present during the turnover were former Schools Division Superintendent Dr. Myrna S. Mootomull and Dr. Myrna Castaños, whose presence added significance to the occasion as the Division celebrated this new chapter in its history.

Also present were representatives from the Gingoog City Water District, MORESCO II, General Services Office (GSO), Philippine National Police (PNP), Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), DepEd Regional Office, and the City Events Team, together with other valued partners and stakeholders.

The Local Government Unit of Gingoog City, headed by Mayor Eric G. Canosa, was also represented during the celebration, together with Kag. (Nanay) Evelyn Canosa and Kag. Fatima Guanzon, highlighting the strong partnership and shared commitment between the LGU and the Department of Education in advancing quality education and public service.

One of the highlights of the celebration was the message of Mayor Eric G. Canosa, who expressed his continued support for the Schools Division of Gingoog City. In his message, Mayor Canosa pledged to provide the Schools Division Office with two additional Toyota Tamaraw FX vehicles to support the transportation needs of DepEd Gingoog City personnel.

The commitment is expected to further strengthen the Division's mobility and enable its personnel to more efficiently carry out their duties, particularly in delivering services and providing support to schools and communities across Gingoog City. The pledge reflects the continuing partnership between the City Government of Gingoog and the Department of Education in ensuring that education personnel are provided with the necessary resources and support to fulfill their mandate.

The formal turnover featured the presentation of the project and turnover of documents, the ceremonial turnover of the key, unveiling of the building marker, official photo opportunity, and a building tour.

It provides a new space where education leaders and personnel can continue working together in advancing programs and services for learners, teachers, school heads, and the entire Gingoog City community. As the Schools Division of Gingoog City begins a new chapter in its new home, it carries with it the support of its partners, stakeholders, and the community.

Together, let us continue building an education system that is responsive, inclusive, and committed to providing quality service for every learner.