In adaptation of the Bata, Balik Eskwela (BBE) campaign of the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) which aims to bring back Not-Attending-School (NAS) children to school, the Angels in Red Vests or the field implementers of 4Ps in the municipality of Margosatubig in Zamboanga Del Sur launched the Bata, Matanda Balik-Eskwela.

This campaign encourages adult beneficiaries of 4Ps, including the elderly, to finish their studies through the Alternative Learning System (ALS) of the Department of Education.

Barangay officials of Tiguian, Margosatubig were delighted by this initiative since many 4Ps beneficiaries in the said barangay were not able to finish their studies due to poverty. Present during the launching of the campaign were the barangay officials, Sangguniang Kabataan officials, NAS children, and other municipal links in the area.

A total of 21 enrollees (10 from NAS children and 11 from Adults) are currently enrolled in school facilities in Barangay Tiguian. The Local Government Unit (LGU) through the Municipal Social Welfare and Development Office (MSWDO) committed to give financial assistance to those enrollees after completing all the requirement.

One of the challenges faced by the angels in red vests in the implementation of such an initiative is the hesitation of adult learners due to fear of being judged and discriminated because of their age.

“As partners in the government service, we unite in overcoming our fears and embrace the spirit of partnership and collaboration filled with enthusiasm and courage to seize every opportunity this institution offers,” the Municipal Link said.

Last June 25, 2024 the Municipal Link conducted Focus Group Discussion (FGD) in coordination with ALS Coordinator Mr. Gelman Jhon Go, SK Officials represented by SK Kagawad Richard Angeles, parents and NAS children of Brgy Tiguian.

Dialogue with target beneficiaries and partner-stakeholders

 

Despite the geographical challenges in the area, the partner-stakeholders committed to support the initiative of the 4Ps program which aligns with the core values of the DSWD to always uphold and provide mapagkalingang serbisyo to clients.

The Alternative Learning System (ALS) is an educational program that provides learning opportunities for individuals who may not have access to formal schooling or have left the traditional education system. It offers a flexible learning environment where students can study at their own space, outside the traditional classroom setting.