Three senior citizens in Taguig City have finished elementary and high school through the city government’s alternative education system.
The three—Mwusews Anthony Mari Diaz, 82; Luvisminda Fajardo, 73; and 63-year-old Erlinda Dejumo—were among the 1,285 students who graduated last Saturday under the city’s Alternative Learning System program.
“Regardless of your age, it is still possible to finish school,” Diaz, who was also recognized as the oldest ALS passer, said after officially completing his junior high school education.
Dejumo, who completed her high school education, and Fajardo, who graduated from elementary, agreed.
The three elders thanked the local government which was instrumental for them to overcome the hurdles.
Diaz noted that his old age became a barrier when he was studying especially when he had to adapt to using modern technology. But his teachers helped him every step of the way.
Fajardo, meanwhile, said there were instances she didn’t understand the modules being taught. Thanks to her teachers, children, and grandchildren who have been so patient with her, she managed to comprehend the lessons.
Dejumo, a registered masseuse and used clothing seller noted that it was poverty that prevented her from completing her studies in the province.
But in Taguig, she said this barrier doesn’t exist because it is the local government which shoulders the educational expenses for all students.
Mayor Laarni Cayetano, who attended the ALS graduation and completion rites at the Taguig City University-Auditorium, praised the ALS graduates for their grit and determination.
“I hope you don’t stop today. Because you are graduates, it is just the beginning of your journey in life,” she said.
The city chief executive announced that next year, funding for the city’s ALS project would increase.
The local government declared the formal launch of the ALS Senior High School program in Taguig Integrated School, which will give others the opportunity to continue their studies and achieve a higher level of education.
Under the current ALS program in Taguig, students undergo modular education and assessment instead of entering a typical public school to pursue their studies.
Dr. Daisy Mataac, education program supervisor in charge of ALS in the Division of Taguig and Pateros, said the Taguig government shoulders the honorarium given to ALS teachers and provides the funding for ALS-related materials and programs such as graduation rites.
“Some of our graduates are now professionals We have five teachers. They’re now employed in Taguig public schools,” she added.
She said the city government has always been putting a premium on the education of its citizens.