Human Interest Stories
Confronting the highs and lows of being an ALS teacher in Zamboanga del Norte
Written by Princess Shahanee Daug When asked about his most memorable experience about teaching in the Alternative Learning System (ALS) in Kalawit, Zamboanga del Norte, Elmer “Jun” Baguio Jr. smiled as he reminisced: “Umakyat ng bundok (Going to the mountains).” “Doon ko na-realize na pag pinuntahan mo pala yung learners lalo na pag na sa …
Read MoreHow a Zamboanga del Norte ALS Implementer is driven by stories, fueled by dedication
Written by Engelbert Bahia “Ako ang nagturong sumula’t bumasa. Ngayon, marunong na sila,” an Alternative Learning System (ALS) implementer cheerfully said. Beneath the scorching sun is mobile teacher Abundio “Bunz” Taman, Jr. who is making his way to deliver the worksheets of his students in Sitio Lingatongan, Zamboanga del Norte. This area, according to him,…
Read MoreThe case of Lourdes Eribal: An ALS teacher’s means to her students’ end
Written by Nicolo Nathan O. Macoy “Nakamata na bitaw sila.” This was how teacher Lourdes Eribal described her students’ interest in “pagiging kusa” (their own volition) to enroll and learn in the Alternative Learning System (ALS) Program of the Department of Education. The learners’ unwavering interest and her growing love for education are what ultimately…
Read MoreCreating better communities by opening doors of possibilities for the youth of Zamboanga del Norte
“These times are trying times. But it is also a time for us to rise. To innovate, to adapt, and to be an inspiration not just for the youth but for the ones that look up to us. We can be an inspiration,” these are the words of a youth for his fellow youth now…
Read MoreAnswering the call to serve and inspire
Being a public servant was not in the plans of then 21-year-old Miles Tejada. She used to lead and serve in private, being a student leader since she was in elementary, and up until high school. But never did it cross her mind to run for public office. One morning, Miles received a call from…
Read MoreHow an out-of-school youth rediscovered his love for learning
Staying in school was difficult for 17-year-old Rajiskan, “Nawalan na talaga ako ng gana sa pag-aaral (I just lost all interest in going to school).” For three years, Rajiskhan Hadjula from Barangay Mariki, Zamboanga City was out-of-school. During those three long years, he considered himself as “tambay” (from the word standby, meaning being idle). When…
Read MoreLearner to teacher: An ALS teacher’s journey
For Virgo, the Alternative Learning System (ALS) is not only the home of her profession; it has also been the tool for her to reach her dreams. Among nine siblings, Virgo Lumanao was the only child to step into high school, a milestone for their family. Although because of their family’s hardships and scarce resources,…
Read MoreLives changing through the Alternative Learning System: Myla Alid
“When you have a dream, you must not be shy to pursue it and make it happen,” Myla said. Myla Alid is a 19-year-old Alternative Learning System (ALS) Learner from Siocon District, Zamboanga del Norte, Philippines. Myla was an out-of-school youth for six years before she learned about the ALS Program. When she heard about…
Read MoreLives changing through the Alternative Learning System: Marinel Bation
“I realized that circumstances are not hindrances for me to pursue my dreams, because I believe that when there is life, there is still hope.” Marinel, a 19-year-old Alternative Learning System (ALS) Learner said. Marinel Bation is one of the ALS Learners of Farmington, Tampilisan Community Learning Center. For Marinel, the ALS program is a…
Read MoreInclusion, peacebuilding, and creativity for out-of-school youth of Zamboanga City
Arian Maui Estrellado (21 years old): “I never felt that I was discriminated. I felt at home. Everyone welcomed me regardless of my being a transgender.” “We cannot accept you in this school unless you cut your hair short.” These words traumatized the then 17-year old Maui when she tried, for the second time, to…
Read More