As part of its commitment to help Typhoon Yolanda (internationally named Haiyan) survivors build back better, the U.S. government turned over eight new classrooms to Tolosa National High School students and faculty. The ceremony was held on the third anniversary of Typhoon Yolanda.

U.S. Embassy Manila’s Chargé d’Affaires Michael S. Klecheski led the inauguration ceremony for the eight classrooms constructed by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID). The classrooms are designed to be typhoon and earthquake resilient, and will provide a safe and conducive learning environment for almost 1,683 students.

“What we have seen here, in the course of this day, is the spirit of strength among the people of this beautiful region,” CDA Klecheski said. “The American people and the rest of the world are impressed with your resilience and hard work.”

Representing the provincial government of Leyte, Sangguniang Bayan member Bob Abellanosa recognized the U.S. government’s contributions to the province’s recovery. “They have been instrumental in helping our communities and survivors through livelihood programs that truly help,” said Abellanosa. “We cannot say thank you enough.”

The structures are part of the U.S. government’s nearly $143 million assistance to help typhoon survivors build back better after the catastrophe. Across the Typhoon Yolanda-affected areas, USAID is constructing 310 classrooms, 30 agri-fishery support facilities, 12 health facilities and 1,029 sari-sari stores. USAID is also restoring livelihood activities by providing equipment and training to 3,215 farmers, 6,920 fisherfolk and 1,417 micro, small and medium entrepreneurs.