MAYOR Francis Zamora spearheaded the distribution of free customized rubber shoes and physical education (PE) uniforms to 13,000 K–12 public school students on Monday, August 24, at the San Juan New Government Centre Theater Hall.
The initiative marks the latest installment in the local government’s comprehensive educational support program aimed at lessening financial burdens for families while equipping youth with essential learning resources.
Joining Mayor Zamora at the ceremonial distribution were Special Assistant to the Mayor Rocco Zamora, Vice Mayor Jose Angelo Rafael “AAA” E. Agcaoili, city councilors, and school administrators.
The newly released footwear represents “Version 2” of the city’s customized rubber shoes, designed exclusively for San Juaneño learners.
Continuing students received replacements for their previous gear, while newly enrolled students were issued their first sets.
The updated school uniforms also feature anti-drug inscriptions, echoing the administration’s campaign against substance abuse.
During his address, Mayor Zamora reiterated his commitment to fostering a safe and supportive learning environment, urging students to report issues directly to city officials and taking a strict stance against bullying. He assured attendees that full educational assistance will remain a priority throughout his term.
The uniform distribution builds on a series of tech-forward learning investments across the city. Just last month, K–12 public school students received brand new tablets, complementing city-provided fiber-optic internet connections installed in both classrooms and homes.
Additionally, public school classrooms across San Juan have been equipped with 55-inch Smart TVs, while public school teachers received individual laptops and financial incentives.
These long-term investments continue to yield strong academic outcomes. Citing data from the Philippine Statistics Authority’s Functional Literacy, Education and Mass Media Survey, San Juan registered a 95 percent functional literacy rate, ranking first among all highly urbanized cities in the country.
Following the main ceremonial rollout, distributions were extended to students across 13 local schools, including West Crame Elementary School, Kabayanan Integrated School, San Juan City Science High School, and San Juan National High School.
