The Turkish Cooperation and Coordination Agency (TİKA) officially inaugurated the newly installed playground it financed at Tagaytay City Central School on Jan. 20, seeing the initiative as another milestone marking the growing Philippine-Türkiye engagement.

The inauguration, attended by Turkish Ambassador Niyazi Evren Akyol, TİKA Country Director Ibrahim Katırcı, and Tagaytay City Mayor Abraham Tolentino, adds to Türkiye’s growing list of educational and community support to the Philippines.

“TİKA’s ongoing commitment to fostering international cooperation and supporting community development is reflected in this project, which is one of many that aim to build stronger bonds between Türkiye and the Philippines,” according to TİKA Philippines.

The playground, built to international standards, aims to provide a safe and enriching environment for the learners– a space where they can play, build friendships, and develop essential life skills such as teamwork, communication, and resilience.

At the inauguration, Akyol reaffirmed the enduring friendship between Türkiye and the Philippines, which celebrated 75 years of diplomatic relations in 2024.

He said this playground, “a humble gift from the people of Türkiye, represents a deeper bond between the two nations.” He also praised the teachers present as inspirations for the next generation.

Tolentino, for his part, conveyed his gratitude and emphasized the importance of social media to connect stakeholders and facilitate similar collaborations.

The official also suggested exploring future collaborations in the field of sports between the Philippines and Türkiye.

Public Schools District Supervisor, Dr. Edelisa Catacutan, also extended their appreciation, saying the constructed playground would have a significant impact on the students’ overall growth.

Katırcı, meanwhile, highlighted TİKA’s belief in the importance of both education and play in a child’s development.

While classrooms provide academic knowledge, he said TİKA recognizes that playgrounds play an important role in giving children the opportunity to nurture creativity, form friendships, and develop critical life skills.

In addition to the playground, TİKA also donated 36 whiteboards to the school. (PNA)