Guinayang National High School

A Legacy of Growth, Resilience, and Educational Excellence

The establishment of Guinayang National High School(GNHS) stands as a testament to the unwavering commitment of the local government and the Department of Education to ensure accessible and quality secondary education for all learners in the northern part of San Mateo, Rizal.

Prior to its establishment, the absence of a secondary school in Barangay Guinayang posed a significant challenge for residents of neighboring barangays. Many elementary graduates were compelled to enroll at Burgos National High School in Rodriguez, Rizal, being the nearest secondary institution serving the area. This situation highlighted the urgent need for a public high school within the locality.

In response, the Local Government Unit of San Mateo, under the leadership of former Municipal Mayor Jose Rafael F. Diaz, acquired a parcel of land in Barangay Guinayang in 2011 for the construction of a secondary school. The initiative primarily aimed to serve learners from Barangays Malanday, Maly, Marang, and Guinayang, while also decongesting the student population of San Mateo National High School in Guitnangbayan, the identified mother school.

Establishment of the Annex (2011–2013)



During the construction phase, San Mateo National High School, under the supervision of former Principal Mr. Vidal F. Mendoza, formally established the Guinayang Annex. The annex temporarily occupied one building on the campus and operated for two consecutive school years (2011–2013). By its second year of implementation, the annex had eleven (11) teaching and non-teaching personnel serving 318 first- and second-year students.

Under the stewardship of Ms. Susan Sacatrapos, Teacher-In-Charge, and with the full support of Barangay Chairman Edilberto C. Angel, the annex pursued the following objectives:

• To provide education that enhances the quality of human life;

• To respond to the socio-economic needs of the community;

• To reduce the number of out-of-school youth; and

• To expand democratic access to public secondary education.

These guiding principles, anchored in the feasibility study, laid the foundation for the school’s long-term vision and mission.

Operationalization and Expansion

In 2012, the local government formally introduced San Mateo National High School–Guinayang Annex to the community. Situated at Jurado Compound, Barangay Guinayang, San Mateo, Rizal, the school became operational with three (3) two-storey buildings—Ynares, DepEd, and AusAid buildings.

By School Year 2013–2014, the annex served 685 students from first to third year levels. Due to increasing enrollment, the school implemented a three-shift schedule with 45-minute class periods. However, in consideration of its impact on learning outcomes, the administration later redesigned the schedule into two shifts to enhance instructional effectiveness and improve academic performance. 

The school continuously strengthened its facilities and services through collaborative efforts with the Local Government Unit, non-government organizations, and stakeholders.

Leadership Transitions and Institutional Strengthening

Leadership transitions marked significant milestones in the school’s development.

MS. SUSANA J. SACATRAPOS, the pioneering principal of Guinayang Annex—now proudly known as Guinayang National High School—was a woman whose leadership embodied service, discernment, and action. With a heart devoted to the school community, a mind sharpened by wisdom, and hands committed to tangible progress, she guided the institution through its formative years. Her vision and dedication inspired teachers to embrace excellence, transforming challenges into opportunities and laying the foundation for a culture of unity and achievement. Under her stewardship, the school rose from humble beginnings to become a thriving center of learning, a testament to her powerful influence and enduring legacy.

 MRS. CORAZON D. ALOLOR served as Officer-In-Charge, following the reassignment of Ms. Sacatrapos. Mrs. Alolor, commonly known as Ma’am A, though a Teacher I at the time, was highly recommended by Ms. Sacatrapos to take on the mantle of leadership because of her remarkable dedication and natural ability to guide others. Stepping into the role on short notice, she demonstrated both courage and passion, ensuring that the school’s operations continued smoothly and that the delivery of quality education remained uncompromised. Her commitment to service and her vision for Guinayang National High School inspired teachers and staff to work with renewed purpose. Through her steady leadership, she upheld the values of excellence and community, proving that true leadership is not defined by rank but by the heart to serve and the determination to make a difference, who ensured that the school will be fully operational and quality education will be delivered despite the sudden transition. 

MRS. MILA N. RAMIREZ, Head Teacher in Mathematics, was appointed as Teacher-In-Charge in 2014. Mrs. Mila N. Remirez brought with her the expertise and discipline of a seasoned educator as Head Teacher of Mathematics at San Mateo National High School. Under her stewardship, Guinayang National High School experienced transformative growth, steadily rising in performance and reputation. Her leadership was marked by a strong commitment to academic excellence, organizational efficiency, and the empowerment of both teachers and learners. With her clear vision and dedication, the school emerged as one of the performing institutions in the District of San Mateo, a testament to her ability to blend instructional rigor with compassionate guidance. 

MS. ANAGINE E. SINDAC, Head Teacher in Filipino from San Mateo National High School, subsequently assumed leadership as Teacher In Charge after the reappointment of Mrs. Mila N. Ramirez as principal of Ampid National High School, guiding Guinayang National High School through a period of steady progress and renewal. Her tenure coincided with the unprecedented challenges brought about by the COVID 19 pandemic, yet she rose to the occasion with resilience and foresight. She ensured the smooth flow of school operations and functions, prioritizing the safety and well being of both learners and teachers. At the same time, she focused on improving school facilities, making classrooms and learning spaces more conducive to teaching and engagement even under restrictive conditions. Beyond infrastructure, she worked tirelessly to foster a positive and supportive school environment, strengthening relationships among teachers, students, and the wider community. Her dedication to service and her ability to lead with compassion and discipline sustained the school’s momentum, ensuring that quality education continued to be delivered despite the disruptions of the pandemic. Ms. Sindac’s leadership stands as a testament to how courage and commitment can safeguard both learning and community in times of crisis.

MR. ALWIN B. VERGARA assumed leadership of Guinayang National High School in February 2023, bringing organizational renewal and innovation. His administration reorganized the school management system to strengthen efficiency, accountability, and transparency. He emphasized research engagement, professional development, and capacity building, empowering teachers to grow as reflective practitioners. Service committees were institutionalized, and partnerships with public and private stakeholders were expanded to support school initiatives. During his tenure, several research studies were presented at the division level, while innovative programs were implemented to enhance learning outcomes. His leadership fostered collaboration, inclusivity, and a forward looking vision that positioned the school as a dynamic institution committed to excellence.

MR. WALTER C. CRISTOBAL, Principal II, assumed office as the new School Head of Guinayang National High School in August 2025. His administration immediately prioritized the improvement of school facilities, including classrooms, faculty rooms, the canteen, restrooms, handwashing stations, and administrative offices—ensuring a more conducive environment for both teaching and learning. He also oversaw the conduct of the Computer-Based National Career Assessment Examination (CB-NCAE), where the newly constructed computer laboratory under his administration was utilized, showcasing the school’s readiness for modern educational demands.

Beyond institutional achievements, Mr. Cristobal’s leadership is distinguished by his cheerful attitude, which brings lightness to heavy loads and uplifts the spirits of the school community. His genuine and authentic nature fosters goodness and harmony among teachers, staff, and students, while his firm adherence to discipline, cleanliness, and safety ensures that the school environment remains orderly and secure. He also actively promoted the 7S Program, embedding a culture of cleanliness, organization, and efficiency across the campus.

In line with the Department of Education’s Expanded Career Progression (ECP) Program, more than half of the teaching staff pursued promotions, reflecting their commitment to growth. Five teachers earned higher ranks—four promoted to Teacher VI and one to Teacher III. Notably, Evangeline T. Abillon, Rachelle M. Buensuceso, Salve D. Gimenez, and Janeth C. Tag at attained Teacher VI, while Mr. Bill Clinton Regorgo rose to Teacher III. 

Through these efforts, Mr. Cristobal continues to embody a leadership style that balances joy, discipline, and vision—ensuring that Guinayang National High School thrives as a center of excellence and community spirit.

Independence and Recognition

The school celebrated its first graduation of fourth-year students who completed the Basic Education Curriculum (BEC). In School Year 2014–2015, faculty members increased from twenty-seven (27) to forty-one (41), serving a total population of 1,108 learners. Teacher deployment continued in response to enrollment growth.

Through prudent utilization of Maintenance and Other Operating Expenses (MOOE), Special Education Fund (SEF), and school-generated funds, the institution significantly improved its physical infrastructure, learning facilities, and administrative offices. The school also strengthened its instructional resources aligned with the K to 12 Curriculum.

In 2016, GNHS became a recipient of the DepEd Computerization Program (DCP), initially receiving fifty (50) computer units and an additional fifty (50) units the following year. This milestone significantly enhanced the school’s Information and Communication Technology (ICT) integration and digital literacy initiatives. 

In School Year 2016–2017, enrollment rose to 1,508 students, necessitating expanded classrooms and additional teaching personnel. Following the submission of complete documentary requirements, the request for separation from the mother school was approved by the DepEd Regional Office through Regional Director Diosdado Antonio and endorsed by Schools Division Superintendent Marites A. Ibanez of the Division of Rizal.

On January 10, 2017, the annex officially attained independence and was formally recognized as Guinayang National High School, bearing School ID 308139.

Sustained Growth and Program Innovations

At present, Guinayang National High School serves 1,668 learners from Grades 7 to 10, supported by 69 teaching personnel and 11 non-teaching staff. As enrollment continued to increase, the school implemented strategic class divisions and infrastructure improvements, including the concreting of school grounds, construction of a stage and covered court, renovation of offices, and expansion of support facilities. Intervention programs were strengthened to support learners with academic difficulties and improve overall student performance.

Continuing the Legacy

Guinayang National High School today stands as a dynamic and resilient institution, steadfast in its mission to nurture competent, disciplined, and responsible learners. Anchored in the Department of Education’s mission, vision, and core values, the school continues to thrive through strong collaboration with stakeholders and the wider community. With a clear commitment to accessible, inclusive, and transformative education, it pursues excellence not only in academics but also in character formation and community service. This enduring legacy reflects the school’s unwavering dedication to shaping learners who are prepared to meet the challenges of the future while upholding the values of integrity, service, and excellence.