Samuel Bello III and Jomes Kemuel Ibañez | Dec. 15, 2017
Since its establishment, the Alternative Learning System (ALS) program of the Department of Education (DepEd) has opened numerous opportunities for Filipino students, out-of-school youth (OSY) and other members of the community who have limited or no access to attend and finish formal basic education.
Education secretary Leonor Briones once said in a speaking engagement that anyone can get educated through non-traditional means.
My own experience showed me that one can get educated without formal schooling.
– Leonor Briones, Secretary, Department of Education (DepEd)
Dubbed as “mobile teachers”, these educators of the ALS program bring literacy and basic education to the deprived and underprivileged Filipinos who are mostly situated in far-flung communities.
Among them is Marvin Bula Macalalad, a teacher for the last nine years, spent the last five years as District ALS Coordinator in Gandara, Samar. “I pass through slum areas, cross rough and muddy roads, and trek uncharted mountains just to bring basic education to the marginalized sector of our community,” he said, recalling the challenges as a mobile teacher.
To help uplift the quality of the teaching-learning process, educators like Marvin needs further support particularly on technology tools to keep pace with the changing needs of education. City Savings Bank (CitySavings) recently reached out by donating 115 notebook computers (laptops) and 108 LCD projectors to different DepEd divisions nationwide.
Marvin remains very passionate about teaching because of the inspiration brought by his students.
Knowing that they can pass the national examination, graduate and receive their diplomas so they can proceed to college or find better opportunities is a rewarding experience for me.
– Marvin Macalalad, District ALS Coordinator, DepEd Division of Samar
Back in 2016, two mobile teachers were part of the roster of outstanding educators recognized by CitySavings during its 50th year anniversary celebration. This kick-started the bank’s support for the ALS program, highlighting the essential role of inclusive education to the Aboitiz Group’s promise of advancing business and communities.