Caruhatan National High School: A History in the Making

In the late sixties there was an increased turn-out of elementary graduates who could not afford to study in private schools. Former Caruhatan Barrio Captain Pedro Padrinao, together with the Elementary School Principal, Miss Jacinto Ramos, conceptualized the idea of putting up a barrio high school. Thus, in June 1972, Valenzuela Municipal High School – Caruhatan Annex was built on Pacencia corner Caridad Streets in Don Pedro Village, Marulas, Valenzuela City under the leadership of Mrs. Ofelia T. Fernando, with four other teachers.

School Heads were then appointed in the successive years such as : Mrs. Amelita SP. Madarang (1975-1978); Mrs.Rosario Cruz (1978-1979); Mr. Edgardo A. Abendan (1979-1985); the return of mrs. Amelita SP. Madarang (1985-1989); Mr. Efren N. Tanfelix (1986-1993); and Mr. Sergio U. Indiongco (1993-1996). Mr. Soliman A. Belisario was designated Officer-in-Charge in 1996-1997. It was during this time when this school became independent from the mother school. He was appointed Principal II. In 2000-2004, Mrs.Bernardina G. Echaluce took over.

From January 2005-2008 Mr. Ronald A. Trono had been the Principal II of this school. During his term, he worked hard for the continued improvement of the school both physical and academic aspects. February 4, 2008 marked a new epoch in this school’s history. Dr. Genindina M. Sumbillo came to head the school. After a few days, she started a new project which is the renovation of the Clinic, School Library, Guidance Room, Faculty Room and Principal’s Office. School Year 2008-2009 marked another significant year for our school under the leadership of Dr. Genindina M. Sumbillo. She worked hard with the support of the students, parents, community and government officials. She was the school principal until June 4, 2011. Mrs. Edelina I. Golloso, Department Head of TLE, acted as OIC for the school for about four months. On November 4, 2011, Mr. Arneil D. Aro served as the Principal of Caruhatan National High School. During his time, the school’s covered court was inaugurated and a new DPWH 3-storey, 12- classroom building was completed.

Recently, the institution welcomed their new leader, Dr. Virginia O. Alacon on February 1, 2014. Having been in office for only a few weeks, she made tremendous innovations in the field of infrastructure rehabilitations of rooms and repairs of the clinic, administrative office, canteen and other functional offices. She also spearheaded a request from the Rotary Club of Valenzuela where they immediately granted computer sets, television and related accessories for the Speech Laboratory and Multimedia Room. Dr. Alacon also initiated many community and alumni-related programs prodding the conduct of an international medical relief and mission, homecomings, and regular dialogues with parents and alumni to solicit meaningful ideas for the school development. Under her time also, many of our students and teachers were motivated making them win numerous awards in contests. We can already see the result of her efforts making Caruhatan National High School a student friendly school that will continue to work hard for the good of the clientele and an organization who treats God above all their works.

In June 2017, with a newly built 3-storey 12 -classroom building, the Senior High School Department was created. Now on its second year of operation, the SHS Department has garnered numerous recognition such as NC II Accreditation for the Cookery Students and NC II Holders of Electrical Installation and Maintenance to name a few. This year will mark the first graduation of the Senior High School students, ready and competent to conquer the world.

Today, after so many eventful trials in its history, Caruhatan National High School continues to stand with pride. With the support of the parents, especially the active and generous General Parents Teachers Association Officers, the Alumni, the Administration, the Faculty and Staff assure the preparation of the youth for the responsible role they will take. Yes, Dr. Virginia O. Alacon and CNHS continue its dedication, commitment and service to the people of Valenzuela.