The Tiburcia Elementary School in Davao del Norte launched Project TABANG (Tiburcia ES: Ang Bata Aalalayan, Nahihirapan Gagabayan) by delivering self-learning modules (SLMs) and reading materials to the homes of learners whose parents are unable to go to school and retrieve the modules.
Spearheaded by Bayani Escoton, the school head, the project also involves assisting those learners having reading difficulties by teaching and providing reading materials. These are done while following strict health protocols.
They also strengthened the Adopt-A-Child Program as part of the school’s Project TABANG, where each school personnel “adopts” one child for the school year. Through this, teachers bring with them food packs, clothes, and school supplies for the learners and their families alongside the distribution of SLMs.
“Daghan kaayong salamat ani Ma’am ug Sir, pait kaayo mi kay wala koy trabaho, dili pa g’yud ko kalakaw, akong misis ang gapaningkamot unya og dili siya kakita og sili para ibaligya, wala mi kaunon,” Rico Sichico, one of the recipients of the program, said.
The families in Barangay Tiburcia in Kapalong felt the impact of the global health crisis. The banana plantations had been hit by Panama disease, large piggeries are closed due to African Swine Flu, and many residents lost their jobs and source of income.
With this project, the beneficiaries felt the presence of the school and the teachers.
This act of kindness and generosity proves that teaching does not only happen in the four corners of the room. It is a vocation, and in trying times, teachers are willing to extend their helping hands and caring hearts to fight these battles.
By Ruby Jean Podunas – Rebote
