Barangay Balulang in Cagayan de Oro City has emerged as one of the country's leading examples of innovative local governance, with its flagship BUSkwela program earning a spot among the nation's best community initiatives.
The project, officially titled "Balulang BUSkwela: Driving Child Development through Provision, Protection and Participation," is one of only 16 finalists currently being assessed by the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) for the country's search for outstanding local government best practices.
Barangay chairperson Edwin Micabani said the recognition highlights the community's commitment to providing practical solutions that improve children's welfare and access to education.
Free School Bus Program Supports Students
Launched in 2023, the BUSkwela program was designed to provide free, safe, and reliable transportation for elementary students, particularly those who travel long distances to school.
The initiative helps reduce children's exposure to road hazards, minimizes the risks of walking along busy streets, and encourages regular school attendance. By providing daily transportation to and from school, the program also gives parents peace of mind knowing their children have a safe and dependable ride.
Balulang Elementary School serves more than 3,000 students, making the barangay's two buses insufficient to accommodate all learners. The local government hopes to expand the fleet to reach more children, although rising fuel prices and maintenance costs remain major challenges.
A Model for Inclusive Local Governance
Beyond improving mobility, BUSkwela demonstrates how community-driven solutions can make education more accessible while promoting child protection and inclusive governance.
The program has also been named a finalist in the 2025 Galing Pook Awards, making it the only entry from Northern Mindanao to reach the national finals. The annual awards recognize outstanding local government initiatives that deliver innovative, inclusive, and sustainable solutions to community challenges.
As the DILG completes its assessment, BUSkwela continues to serve as a model of how grassroots programs can create meaningful and lasting impact, one safe trip to school at a time.
