On the left side column outside the entrance to the school.

A brass inscribed plaque with the relief of a “Doughboy” in the center of a wreath attached to a school named in honor of the World War 1 hero.

Tomas Claudio was born on May 7, 1892 in Morong, Philippines; Private Tomas Mateo Claudio is one of the few Asian Pacific Americans known to have served in the First Division (later First Infantry Division) during World War I. In fact, he is believed to be the only Filipino American to serve in France during the war. 

Tomas immigrated to Hawaii in 1911, subsequently traveled to Alaska and ultimately made his way to Nevada. In 1917, Tomas enlisted in the U.S. Army, briefly served in the 41st Infantry Division and then joined K Company, 28th Infantry Regiment, First Division, in France. 

On June 29, 1918, the sole Filipino combat casualty in WWI died in service with the First Division while it held positions in the Montdidier sector. In General Orders No. 1 issued 1 Jan 1920 by HQ First Division, T. M. Claudio is cited for gallantry in action. 

In 1921, Tomas Claudio’s remains were returned to the Philippines and re-interred at Manila North Cemetery. Afterwards, a school in Morong was named after Tomas. 

Claudio is also remembered on the 1st Infantry Division Stele in Cantigny, France and by a statue in downtown Morong.

The text on the plaque is written in English and reads:

1893- 1919

IN MEMORY OF

TOMAS CLAUDIO

WHO FELL AT

THE BATTLE OF ARGONNE,

FRANCE  Oct 6, 1919

THIS BUILDING WAS

ERECTED BY THE

MUNICIPALITY OF

MORONG, RIZAL

UNDER THE LEG. ACT 2881

IN THE YEAR OF

OUR LORD MCMXX

NOTE:  Claudio died on June 29, 1918 near Cantigny, France while fighting with the 1^st Infantry Division.