By DR. FEDERICO P. MARTIN,
Deped-10 Asst. Regional Director
ON November 8, 2023, in the heart of Cagayan de Oro City, an extraordinary event unfolded at Camansi Integrated School.
Guided by our Regional Director Dr. Arturo B. Bayocot of the Department of Education (DepEd) Regional Office 10 launched the unique outreach program “Changing Lives: Giving Children Chances and Choices with Compassion.”
The school hosts students from kindergarten to Grade 10 and has become a hub of inspiration and enlightenment.
Dr. Bayocot held storytelling sessions for Grades 5 and 6. ASDS Audie S. Borres conducted reading sessions for Grades 3 and 4, opening new worlds for them.
I had the privilege to share valuable lessons with Grades 7-10, guiding them towards self-discovery.
Our youngest learners engaged in fun and educational activities, thanks to the Human Resource Development Team, CES Enerio E. Ebisa, and CAO Atty. Shirley Chatto.
This transformative day was shared by 124 students and seven teachers, led by their head teacher.
The Schools Division Office of Cagayan de Oro City, the Local Government Unit, and the Parent-Teacher Association all contributed to the event's success.
Our school was blessed with donations of school supplies, meals, and essential office materials.
We were happy to give our hardworking teachers and students tokens of appreciation.
Even the parents, who tirelessly support their children, were recognized for their efforts.
We ensured the event wasn’t just about academics.
The SDO–CDO organized medical and dental missions, and a tree-planting initiative was also a part of the day.
Haircut sessions and dental check-ups were there for personal care and health.
Dr. Bayocot’s personal story, from his humble beginnings in Tabina, Zamboanga del Sur, touched us all.
It was a reminder of the resilience and determination we all need, especially for those students who are also young parents.
I am proud to have been part of this day of support and transformation.
Organized by the dedicated Human Resource Development Division, this event will be remembered by all who participated.
“Changing Lives: Giving Children Chances and Choices with Compassion” was not just an event, but a statement of the power of kindness and empathy.
It served as a beacon of hope, reminding us all that with compassion, we can inspire change. (With a report from Enerio E. Ebisa)
