Flooding Disrupts Classes at New Horizon SDA School, Renewing Drainage Concerns

Repeated flooding in San Pedro continues to affect homes, streets, and schools, raising concerns about the island’s drainage capacity. New Horizon Seventh-day Adventist School in the DFC area suspended classes on Friday, October 16th, and Monday, October 19th, after heavy rain left its grounds and nearby roads underwater. Classes resumed Tuesday, October 20th, after emergency drainage assistance removed water from the property.
Principal Elizabeth Sandores said at least three inches of water covered the school grounds. The bathrooms and snack shop became inaccessible, making it impossible to hold classes without access to basic facilities. Low-lying sections of DFC and other parts of the island also had standing water after the recent rainfall.
San Pedro has faced repeated drainage challenges during periods of heavy rain, with flooding previously reported in DFC, San Pablo, San Mateo, San Pedrito, and Escalante. San Pedro Town Council Operations Manager Alex Ek said his team continues to clear drains and culverts in affected neighborhoods. The team also installed culverts and drainage pipes in some locations to direct water toward the lagoon.
Minister of Blue Economy and Area Representative Honorable Andre Perez provided landfill material, and the San Pedro Town Council supplied pipes to drain the school property. Community members also helped, including Eugen Bul, who provided pallets to create temporary bridges.
“I am deeply grateful for the concern, kindness, and support shown by the community. I sincerely appreciate everyone who reached out with words of encouragement and offered their assistance. Your thoughtfulness and willingness to help are truly appreciated by our school community,” Sandores said.
The Town Council continues to clear drains in flooded areas. At New Horizon SDA, the assistance allowed classes to resume, but standing water in surrounding communities remains a concern for families traveling to and from school.