Photo courtesy of Guinpana-an Elementary School Facebook page.
Reynaldo Mojares, the 60-year-old principal of Guinpana-an Elementary School, died on July 31 at Riverside Medical Center after falling from a ladder while cleaning the school roof.
The accident occurred on July 28 as Mojares prepared for the start of classes the following day.
Mojares, who was set to retire in December or January, went to the school with his wife and other teachers to do last-minute cleaning. He noticed leaves on the roof and climbed a ladder to remove them.
As he descended, the ladder slid, causing him to fall and hit his head, according to Arnold Arnaez, spokesperson for the Department of Education (DepEd) Division of Negros Occidental.
Rep. Emilio Yulo III of Negros Occidental’s fifth district expressed his sorrow over Mojares’ death, telling Inquirer, “It is extremely sad that he died because of his earnest desire to do something which was originally beyond his call of duty. If at all it speaks a lot about the present state of our educational system. I hope he will not die in vain.”
Mojares was rushed to the hospital in critical condition and succumbed to his injuries at 10:25 p.m. His death has left the school community in mourning.
Colleagues and students took to social media to share their condolences and memories of a beloved mentor.
The school will appoint a senior teacher as officer-in-charge until a new principal is named, according to Arnaez.
Mojares’ commitment to his role and the well-being of his students resonated deeply with those who knew him.
Eilen Juanites, a former student, shared her grief online, writing, “Rest in peace and sleep soundly, Sir Nald. Until we meet again.”
Another former student, Archie Pun-an Daal, remembered him fondly, writing in Ilonggo, “I cannot forget that you were my teacher. You are the one and only who invented my name ‘Potchie.’ Whenever you see me, you would always call me ‘Potchie.’ You’re always in our hearts, sir.”
Mojares’ tragic accident highlights the dedication of educators who often go beyond their duties for their students and communities.
