History of Pagudpud Integrated School

 

The name "Pagudpud" was derived from Barangay Pagudpud, located approximately five kilometers southwest of the town proper. Formerly known as "Calaocan," from the Ilocano word "laoc," meaning "mixed," this thriving settlement was once home to early residents engaged in fishing, farming, and weaving. Over time, a large group of settlers from Pagudpud, Ilocos Norte, arrived and became the dominant population, naming the settlement after their former hometown.

 

Spanning a total land area of 6,716 square meters, Pagudpud Integrated School is one of the largest educational institutions in San Fernando District II. The school traces its roots back to 1935, during the American regime, when it was initially established as Pagudpud Community School. The school originally offered Grades 1 to 3, with American soldiers serving as teachers. At the time, students had to transfer to another school to complete Grades 4 to 6. However, in the years leading up to the Japanese occupation, these grade levels were gradually introduced, allowing local children to complete their elementary education within their own community.

 

During World War II, the school was repurposed as a garrison by Japanese forces, instilling fear among students and leading to a decline in enrollment. Despite the adversities of war, education persisted, with records indicating that classes continued under challenging conditions.

 

In the late 2000s, Pagudpud Community School was officially renamed Pagudpud Elementary School, aligning with the Department of Education’s initiative to standardize school names nationwide. As enrollment steadily increased, additional buildings and facilities were constructed to accommodate the growing student population and improve the overall learning environment.

 

With a strong commitment to academic excellence, the school has consistently performed well in various academic and co-curricular competitions, including the National Achievement Test (NAT). Furthermore, Pagudpud Integrated School has gained recognition in sports, regularly representing Region I in the Region I Athletics Association (RIAA) meet, particularly in elementary volleyball.

 

A significant milestone was reached in 2007 with the launch of the school's first official publication, The Waves. This initiative aimed to inform the school community about events, accomplishments, and upcoming activities while also providing a platform for young writers to showcase their talents at the Division and Regional Schools Press Conferences.

 

In 2017, the school expanded its academic offerings by introducing Grade 7 under the leadership of Mrs. Jeneath Caluza. This expansion prompted its official renaming to Pagudpud Integrated School. New facilities were constructed to support the increasing student population and enhance academic and extracurricular opportunities. The first Moving Up ceremony for Grade 7 learners took place in 2020, marking another significant achievement in the school’s history.

 

Further expanding its educational programs, Pagudpud Integrated School introduced the Senior High School Accountancy, Business, and Management (ABM) Strand in 2022 under the leadership of Dr. Emeliza P. Abulencia. The school celebrated a historic milestone in 2024, as the first batch of Senior High School ABM graduates successfully completed their studies. Additionally, in the same year, the Humanities and Social Sciences (HUMSS) Strand was launched under the leadership of Mrs. Miriam O. Aurelio.

 

Today, Pagudpud Integrated School continues to uphold its legacy of excellence, guided by a dedicated faculty of 45 highly competent and passionate educators. Supported by a committed non-teaching staff, and under the leadership of Mrs. Miriam O. Aurelio, the school remains steadfast in its mission to produce well-rounded graduates who excel in academics, sports, and leadership. As it moves forward, Pagudpud Integrated School remains dedicated to shaping future generations and soaring to even greater heights.