This profile explores Datu Talipasan Impao Elementary School, a public institution in Barangay Dansuli, Isulan, Sultan Kudarat, operating under the Isulan Central District of the Sultan Kudarat Schools Division, DepEd Region XII. Also known as Impao Elementary School, its story extends beyond textbooks—in 2014, it served as the venue for a 3-day peace advocacy training organized by the MILF Daguma Committee on Information, demonstrating its role as a community anchor. The article incorporates population data from the Philippine Statistics Authority, showing Isulan’s population as of the 2024 census.
More Than a School: A Community Anchor
Most schools are defined by their academic records. Datu Talipasan Impao Elementary School is defined by something else entirely—its role as a gathering place for peace, dialogue, and community-building in the heart of Isulan.
While its name appears in official records as both Datu Talipasan Impao Elementary School and simply Impao Elementary School, this institution’s identity transcends its dual nomenclature. Situated in Barangay Dansuli, near the Impao area, the school has quietly served as more than just a place of learning for the children of this part of Isulan’s central district.
In February 2014, this school became the venue for a significant event: a 3-day Training of Trainers on peace advocacy organized by the MILF Daguma Committee on Information in cooperation with Mindanaoan Humanitarian and Development Initiative, Inc. (MinHuDI). The theme was “Empowering Bangsamoro: Nurturing Leaders of Society to become More Effective,” and it drew 35 participants from various line agencies across six municipalities.
This event, which discussed leadership, MILF policies, the Framework Agreement on the Bangsamoro (FAB), and leadership in Islam, transformed the school from a mere educational facility into a venue for peacebuilding. The school’s principal at the time, Mrs. Bainot Abdul, along with community leader Mr. Ibrahim Abdul, expressed gratitude for the training and pledged continued cooperation for future activities.
This article examines the story of Datu Talipasan Impao Elementary School—a school whose legacy extends far beyond the classroom walls.
Datu Talipasan Impao Elementary School: Key Information
- Also Known As: Impao Elementary School
- Location: Barangay Dansuli, Isulan, Sultan Kudarat
- Coordinates: 6.66279° North, 124.58001° East
- District: Isulan Central District, Sultan Kudarat Schools Division , DepEd
- School Type: Public Elementary School
- DepEd School ID: 209022
- Nearby Schools: Dansuli Elementary School (2 km southeast), Mapantig Elementary School (2 km north), D. Lotilla Elementary School (2½ km west), Ala Central School (2½ km northwest)
- Notable Event: Hosted MILF peace advocacy training (2014)
- Isulan Population (2024 Census): 101,455 residents
Where the School Stands
Datu Talipasan Impao Elementary School occupies a unique position in Barangay Dansuli, one of 17 barangays that make up Isulan, the capital of Sultan Kudarat province. According to Mapcarta , the school sits at approximately 6.66279° North latitude and 124.58001° East longitude.
The school’s location reflects the interconnected nature of the Dansuli-Impao area. While its official name includes “Impao,” records place it in Barangay Dansuli. This dual identity reflects the geographic realities of the area, where communities blend and schools serve populations that cross traditional barangay boundaries.
The school is situated near key government offices, including the DARPO-SK and the Department of Agrarian Reform. Its position along the Cotabato-Koronadal Highway places it within easy reach of the surrounding communities.
Datu Talipasan Impao Elementary School is positioned near several educational neighbors:
- Dansuli Elementary School – 2 km southeast
- Mapantig Elementary School – 2 km north
- D. Lotilla Elementary School – 2½ km west
- Ala Central School – 2½ km northwest
The school’s location in the Isulan Central District places it within the broader educational ecosystem of the Sultan Kudarat Schools Division under DepEd Region XII (SOCCSKSARGEN). This district includes several other schools serving the central barangays of Isulan.
Two Names, One Institution
One of the most distinctive aspects of this school is its dual identity. Official records and maps refer to it by two names: Datu Talipasan Impao Elementary School and Impao Elementary School.
The longer name—Datu Talipasan Impao Elementary School—honors a local leader, with “Datu” being a traditional title of respect in Mindanao. The shorter name—Impao Elementary School—reflects the barangay it serves.
This dual naming is not unusual in the Philippines, where schools often carry the names of local heroes or leaders alongside geographic identifiers. Official DepEd records list the school under School ID 209022 as “Datu Talipasan Impao Elementary School”, while geographic databases refer to it as “Impao Elementary School”.
The school has been serving the educational needs of children in the Dansuli-Impao area for many years, building a legacy of service that spans generations.
A Venue for Peace: The 2014 MILF Training
What truly sets Datu Talipasan Impao Elementary School apart from many other public schools in Isulan is its role in peacebuilding and community dialogue.
In February 2014, the school became the venue for a significant event in the region’s peace process. The MILF Daguma Committee on Information, in cooperation with MinHuDI (Mindanaoan Humanitarian and Development Initiative, Inc.) , conducted a 3-day Training of Trainers at the school.
The training, themed “Empowering Bangsamoro: Nurturing Leaders of Society to become More Effective,” brought together 35 participants from various line agencies across six municipalities. The topics covered were substantial and wide-ranging:
- Leadership and MILF Policies – discussed by Executive Director Moidjoddin Talusob of Kalilintad Development Foundation, Inc. (KDFI)
- The Framework Agreement on the Bangsamoro (FAB) and its four Annexes – presented by Prof. Esmael Abdula, Chairman of the Campaign and Mass Mobilization, Sub Committee on Information, Committee on Information, and a member of the Steering Committee of Bangsamoro Leadership and Management Institute (BLMI)
- Leadership in Islam in the Present Situation – delivered by the Chairman of Daguma Provincial Shariah
- Public Speaking – lectured by Dimaokom
The training concluded with participants designing plans for peace advocacies in the contiguous areas of the Bangsamoro core territory, identifying the municipalities of Lambayong and Esperanza in Sultan Kudarat Province as target areas.
The school’s principal at the time, Mrs. Bainot Abdul, and community leader Mr. Ibrahim Abdul expressed gratitude for the training and assured organizers of their cooperation for future activities.
This event transformed the school from a quiet educational institution into a venue for high-level peace dialogue, demonstrating its importance as a community anchor.
Serving the Community Beyond the Classroom
The school’s role as a community hub extends beyond the 2014 peace training. In 2019, Datu Talipasan Elementary School was among the recipients of the “Bigay Eskwela” program of the Philippine National Police Officers’ Ladies Club (OLC-12).
The initiative, which raised ₱36,260 worth of school supplies, provided packages containing pad papers, notebooks, pencils, erasers, sharpeners, plastic envelopes, crayons, and art papers to selected learners. The school was one of three recipients in Region 12, alongside Sitio Nop Elementary School in Alabel, Sarangani, and Cebuano Elementary School in Tupi, South Cotabato.
This engagement with law enforcement and community organizations reflects the school’s ongoing commitment to serving its students and building partnerships beyond the classroom.
Academic Offerings
K to 12 Basic Education Program
Like all public elementary schools in the Philippines, Datu Talipasan Impao Elementary School follows the K to 12 basic education program implemented by the Department of Education . The curriculum develops learners holistically through core subjects:
- Language and Reading
- Mathematics
- Science
- Araling Panlipunan (Social Studies)
- Edukasyon sa Pagpapakatao (Values Education)
- MAPEH (Music, Arts, Physical Education, and Health)
MATATAG Curriculum Transition
Since School Year 2024-2025, the school has been transitioning to the MATATAG curriculum, DepEd’s revised K-10 framework focusing on five foundational skills: language, reading and literacy, mathematics, makabansa, and good manners and right conduct. This reform aims to produce competent, job-ready, and active citizens.
Beyond the Classroom
The school offers activities that develop students holistically:
- Values formation programs
- Sports and athletic activities
- Cultural and arts programs
- Community engagement initiatives
- Reading and literacy programs
School Leadership
District and Division
Datu Talipasan Impao Elementary School operates under the Isulan Central District of the Sultan Kudarat Schools Division. The division office, located in Kenram, Isulan, oversees all public elementary and secondary schools in the province.
The school follows policies from:
- DepEd Central Office
- DepEd Region XII (SOCCSKSARGEN)
- Sultan Kudarat Schools Division
Contact Information
For inquiries, contact the Sultan Kudarat Schools Division Office:
- Address: Kenram, Isulan, Sultan Kudarat
- Telephone: (064) 471 1007
- Email: depedsk.r12@deped.gov.ph
The Dansuli-Impao Community
Barangay Dansuli and Impao
Datu Talipasan Impao Elementary School serves the children of Barangay Dansuli and the surrounding Impao area. According to the 2024 census from the Philippine Statistics Authority , the municipality of Isulan has 101,455 residents. As Isulan continues to grow, schools like Datu Talipasan Impao Elementary School play an increasingly important role in serving the educational needs of the municipality’s expanding population.
Community Engagement
As a community school, Datu Talipasan Impao Elementary School engages with local stakeholders, including parents, barangay officials, and community leaders. The school works collaboratively with the Barangay Dansuli government, the Barangay Impao government, and the Municipality of Isulan to address the educational needs of the community.
The school’s history of hosting peace advocacy training and participating in community engagement initiatives reflects its position as a bridge between education and community development.
Recent Developments and 2026 Updates
Isulan’s Continued Growth
The 2024 census from the Philippine Statistics Authority shows Isulan’s population at 101,455 residents, representing continued growth for the provincial capital. As the municipality expands, schools like Datu Talipasan Impao Elementary School will play an increasingly vital role in serving the educational needs of the community.
Tara Basa! Tutoring Program
In 2026, the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) expanded its flagship Tara, Basa! Tutoring Program to the second district of Sultan Kudarat, targeting more than 1,000 public elementary students. While Datu Talipasan Impao Elementary School is not specifically named, as a public school in Sultan Kudarat, it stands to benefit from this literacy initiative.
DepEd New Grading System (SY 2026-2027)
Starting School Year 2026-2027, the Department of Education will implement descriptive grading for Kindergarten to Grade 1, expanding to Grade 2 in 2027-2028 and Grade 3 by 2028-2029. The system shifts from four grading periods to three academic terms under DepEd Order 9, series of 2026.
For updates on other schools, visit our List of Elementary Schools in Isulan .
Explore Other Educational Institutions in Isulan
Isulan is home to a diverse range of educational institutions:
- List of Elementary Schools in Isulan – Complete directory of elementary schools in Isulan
- Kudanding Elementary School – South District school serving the Kudanding community
- Bambad Central School – Flagship elementary institution in the Isulan South District
- Kolambog Elementary School – First AusAID-funded school in Region XII
- Maremco Elementary School – A legacy of community and learning in Bambad
- Genzola Elementary School – A profile of Isulan’s South District School
- Isulan Central School SPED Center – Flagship school with SPED Center in Barangay Kalawag II
- Kalawag Central Elementary School – Features a sports complex in Barangay Kalawag 2
- Kalawag III Elementary School – Extension campus of Isulan Central Elementary School
- P.C. Bayanihan Elementary School – Actively implements Madrasah Education Program (MEP)
- Don Juan Garcia Memorial Elementary School – Formerly Kenram Elementary School
- Dansuli Elementary School – Public elementary school in Isulan Central District
- Impao Elementary School – Public elementary school along the National Highway in Impao
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Where is Datu Talipasan Impao Elementary School located?
Datu Talipasan Impao Elementary School is located in Barangay Dansuli, Isulan, Sultan Kudarat. Its coordinates are approximately 6.66279° North latitude and 124.58001° East longitude.
2. What is the other name of this school?
The school is also known as Impao Elementary School.
3. What district does Datu Talipasan Impao Elementary School belong to?
The school is under the Isulan Central District of the Sultan Kudarat Schools Division, DepEd.
4. What is the DepEd School ID of Datu Talipasan Impao Elementary School?
The DepEd School ID of the school is 209022.
5. What is the population of Isulan?
According to the 2024 census published by the Philippine Statistics Authority , the municipality of Isulan has a population of 101,455 residents.
6. What significant event took place at the school in 2014?
In February 2014, the school hosted a 3-day Training of Trainers on peace advocacy organized by the MILF Daguma Committee on Information in cooperation with MinHuDI. The training had 35 participants from six municipalities.
7. Who was the principal of the school in 2014?
The principal in 2014 was Mrs. Bainot Abdul.
8. What curriculum does Datu Talipasan Impao Elementary School follow?
The school follows the K to 12 basic education program under the Department of Education , with the transition to the new MATATAG curriculum starting in School Year 2024-2025.
9. How can I contact the Sultan Kudarat Schools Division?
The Sultan Kudarat Schools Division Office is located in Kenram, Isulan, Sultan Kudarat. You may contact them at (064) 471 1007 or email depedsk.r12@deped.gov.ph.
10. What schools are located near Datu Talipasan Impao Elementary School?
Nearby schools include Dansuli Elementary School (2 km southeast), Mapantig Elementary School (2 km north), D. Lotilla Elementary School (2½ km west), and Ala Central School (2½ km northwest).
11. What is the Tara Basa! program?
The Tara Basa! Tutoring Program is a DSWD flagship initiative that aims to enhance reading proficiency among young learners. In 2026, it expanded to the second district of Sultan Kudarat, targeting over 1,000 public elementary students.
12. What is the DepEd New Grading System for 2026?
Starting School Year 2026-2027, the Department of Education will implement descriptive grading for Kindergarten to Grade 1, expanding to Grade 2 in 2027-2028 and Grade 3 by 2028-2029.
13. What other schools are in the Isulan Central District?
Other schools in the Isulan Central District include Isulan Central School SPED Center, Kalawag Central Elementary School, P.C. Bayanihan Elementary School, Don Juan P. Garcia Memorial Elementary School, Dansuli Elementary School, and Mapantig Elementary School.
14. Is Datu Talipasan Impao Elementary School a public or private school?
The school is a public elementary school.
15. What region does the school belong to?
The school is under DepEd Region XII (SOCCSKSARGEN).
16. Did the school participate in any community engagement programs?
Yes. In 2019, the school was a recipient of the “Bigay Eskwela” program of the Philippine National Police Officers’ Ladies Club (OLC-12) , receiving school supply packages for selected learners.
17. What topics were discussed during the 2014 MILF peace training?
Topics included leadership, MILF policies, the Framework Agreement on the Bangsamoro (FAB), leadership in Islam, and public speaking.
18. What is the significance of the name “Datu Talipasan”?
“Datu” is a traditional title of respect in Mindanao. The name honors a local leader associated with the school.
19. How can I find more information about other schools in Isulan?
For a complete list of all elementary schools in Isulan, visit our List of Elementary Schools in Isulan .
20. What is the mission of Datu Talipasan Impao Elementary School?
The school is committed to providing quality education to students from diverse backgrounds, preparing them for success in the future, and serving as a community anchor for peace and development.
Final Thoughts
Datu Talipasan Impao Elementary School represents years of educational service in the Dansuli-Impao area of Isulan, Sultan Kudarat. What distinguishes this school from others is not just its dual identity—operating under two names in official records—but its role as a community anchor that transcends traditional education.
In 2014, this school became a venue for peacebuilding, hosting a 3-day Training of Trainers organized by the MILF Daguma Committee on Information. The event brought together 35 participants from six municipalities to discuss leadership, peace advocacy, and the Framework Agreement on the Bangsamoro. The school’s principal at the time, Mrs. Bainot Abdul, expressed gratitude and pledged continued cooperation for future peace activities.
The school’s role as a community hub continued in 2019 when it became a recipient of the PNP Officers’ Ladies Club “Bigay Eskwela” program, receiving school supplies for its learners.
According to the 2024 census from the Philippine Statistics Authority , Isulan has grown to 101,455 residents. As the provincial capital continues to expand, schools like Datu Talipasan Impao Elementary School will play an increasingly vital role in ensuring that every child has access to quality education—regardless of whether they live in the urban center or in the barangays that surround it.
For parents and guardians in Barangay Dansuli, Barangay Impao, and nearby areas, Datu Talipasan Impao Elementary School remains a trusted institution committed to academic excellence, character development, and community service. Its presence in the community underscores the importance of education in building a brighter future for Isulan and Sultan Kudarat.
To explore other educational institutions, visit our comprehensive List of Elementary Schools in Isulan . You may also be interested in Dansuli Elementary School , Impao Elementary School , or Isulan Central School SPED Center .
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