Despite of the busy schedules, the Alternative Learning System (ALS) division, through the Department of Education Regional Office 2 brought all passers together for the first Alumni Pammalabbe homecoming.
On December 21, with the theme “Making memories, renewing friendship and rebuilding the ALS spirit” held at Tuguegarao West Central School, all ALS graduate in the city were convened for the celebration of their success.
More than 200 passers from 10 years ago until today attended.
According to one of the testimonial speakers, Jerico Joshua Kahulugan said that all hardships were paid when you put faith and action together.
“I have my shortcomings. I was challenged to excel and do more in order to be who I am today”, he added.
As of today, Kahulugan works for The Northern Forum as a senior writer, and is also about to finish his master’s degree in Saint Paul University of the Philippines as a scholar.
“With this dynamic society, we have changed the way we teach, learn, work and live. And I think because my ability to adapt to change has brought me to this point”, Kahulugan also said.
Another testimonial speaker, Maria Teresa Rosales, now a senior high school teacher said that determination brought her to success.
“Leaving my cocoon is quite frightening dahil hindi alam kung anong naghihintay sa akin. Pero dahil sa determinasyon, maabot ang pangarap, narating ko ang aking pangarap”, she added.
Police Corporal Epifanio Tambuan, also a testimonial speaker told the fellow ALS passers that everything has its timing.
“Noong pumasa ako ng ALS, I thought it was a game. I took the entrance exam to police. Nakatsamba naman”, he added.
Corporal Tambuan now serves the Philippine National Police, Quezon City as part of the intelligence division.
Meanwhile, Schools District Supervisor of DepEd Tuguegarao, Dr. Reynante Caliguiran emphasized that ALS is one of the 10 points agenda of education, “In the 21st century, informal schooling is a first class education. We cannot compare formal education to informal because ALS serves out of school youths and other learners who wish to go back to schooling”, he added.
Tuguegarao City Mayor Atty. Jefferson P. Soriano emphasized that even if their office is busy going around, they should give time to their ALS passers.
“They are part of the development of our economy”, he remarked.
Soriano also said that the LGU has a big part in supporting the education sector specifically, ALS.
