San Jacinto National High School: A Legacy of Community Dedication

A Journey from Humble Beginnings to Educational Excellence
The story of San Jacinto National High School is one of resilience, community spirit, and unwavering commitment to education. Nestled in the heart of San Jacinto, Masbate, this institution has evolved from a modest dream into a beacon of learning for generations.

The Gifted Land
The school’s journey began with a generous gift from the late Municipal Mayor Narciso Aňonuevo. Two hectares of land, including the municipal building, were donated to lay the foundation for what would become San Jacinto National High School. But the community’s dedication didn’t stop there. PTA President Mr. Francisco Altarejos Sr. contributed an additional two hectares adjacent to the District Hospital of San Jacinto. The rest of the school site emerged through voluntary contributions from teachers, PTA officials, and philanthropic citizens. The result? A sprawling 86,642-square-meter campus—a testament to collective vision and determination.

Land Donors:
Lucas Altarejos, Casiano Altarejos, Lamberto Aplit, Maximiano Almoradie, Leon Almoradie, Susano Almodiel, Leoncia Bajar, Francisco Altarejos

A Vision Takes Shape
In 1947, the Municipal Council of San Jacinto passed Resolution No. 4, officially recognizing the acquired land for the school site. Armed with this resolution, Municipal Secretary Mr. Remegio Espares Sr., Mayor Narciso Aňonuevo, and PTA President Mr. Francisco Altarejos Sr. presented their case to Schools Superintendent Mr. Julian Meliton. The superintendent’s approval marked the birth of San Jacinto National High School, initially operating as a Junior High School.

From Junior High to Full-Fledged High School
The following year, the school expanded its horizons. On January 4, 1947, San Jacinto National High School emerged as a full-fledged public high school. Mr. Catalino Villanueva Sr., a faculty member from Albay High School, was called upon by Mr. Julian Meliton to serve as the school’s first principal. The institution initially operated as a Municipality High School, relying on tuition fees and supplemented by the Special Education Fund.

A Turning Point: Provincial Funding
In 1976, a pivotal moment arrived—the school’s funding transitioned to the Provincial Government. Salaries, maintenance, and operating expenses now depended on allocations from the provincial board. But it was in 1980 that the school’s destiny took a transformative turn.

A Building for the Future
Governor Emilio Espinosa Jr. championed the cause, leading to the construction of a 20-room, two-story building. This milestone marked the transition from Municipality High School to San Jacinto National High School. Three years later, the school achieved national status through Batas Pambansa Bldg. 230 (the General Appropriation Act of October 1983). The joint efforts of Governor Espinosa and former Batasan Pambansa delegate Ricardo Butalid elevated the teaching and learning standards while stabilizing financial requirements.

The People Behind the Foundation
San Jacinto National High School owes its existence to countless individuals—mayors, PTA leaders, teachers, and community members—who believed in the power of education. Their legacy lives on, shaping the minds and futures of students who walk its halls today.

Hon. Narciso Añonuevo-Municipality Mayor , (Council Members) Hon. Felipe Letada, Hon. Jose Mores Sr., Hon. Damaso Merillo, Hon. Pacifico Gutierrez Sr., Mr. Francisco Altarejos Sr. – PTA President, Mr. Remigio Espares Sr. Municipality Secretary.