BY MA. THERESA LADIAO
ILOILO – In the town of Alimodian, Senior High School students are overcoming obstacles through the Department of Education’s Alternative Learning System (ALS).
ALS is a non-formal education program that provides opportunities for out-of-school youths and adults to complete their education at no cost, fostering hope and empowerment for those who once thought they could never return to school.
A DREAM
Lyn Mondero, 35, from Barangay Omindan, is one of the many beneficiaries of ALS. A Grade 11 student, she balances her roles as a mother and homemaker while pursuing her dream of finishing high school at Cabardo National High School.
She recalls how life’s responsibilities initially kept her from completing her studies, but ALS gave her a second chance.
“Para sa akon, pinaka-importante gid, kay wala ko ka-graduate high school, so gin tinguhaan ko gid maskin nga budlay man,” she shared.
As a mother of young children, Lyn is only able to attend class once a week, but she remains determined.
“Ang amon nga klase sa ALS once a week lang man. Dako gid nga oportunidad kay te, ang nabilin nga mga inadlaw para lang sa mga kabataan ko,” she said.
Despite only reaching Grade 4 in her early years, Lyn re-entered education through ALS, completing junior high school. Her ultimate goal is to graduate from senior high, a dream she never let go.
“Gin tinguhaan ko gid kay gusto ko gid maka-graduate sa high school,” she said, demonstrating the perseverance ALS has inspired in her life.
LIFELINE
For 25-year-old Lyka Marie Baylosis, ALS has been a lifeline.
A mother of two, she understands the challenges of balancing family life with education, but she is determined to provide a better future for her children by finishing her studies.
“Gusto ko makatapos maski may bata ako kay lain gid kun may tinapusan ikaw. Kun may tinapusan ka, makakita ka ubra,” Lyka shared.
Her journey has not been easy, often having to bring her children with her to school, juggling her responsibilities as a mother and a student.
After the loss of her adoptive parents, Lyka’s education was interrupted, but she’s grateful for the opportunity ALS has given her to continue.
“Gapasalamat gid kami kay tungod sa ALS, gin tagaan kami kahigayunan nga maka eskwela biskan once a week lang,” she said.
FOR THE NEXT GENERATION
Roda Andea Daan, 43, has seen her life come full circle through ALS. After stopping at second-year high school, moving to Manila, and returning to Alimodian several times, she finally completed junior high school through the program.
Now, a Grade 11 student at Cabardo National High School, she is determined to finish what she started decades ago.
“Damo gid ko natun-an. Kay akon gid motto, ‘education is the key to success,’” Roda said.
For her, education is not just for personal gain, but also for the next generation.
“Kun indi ko mak- proceed sa college, at least magamit ko sa kaapohan ko, sa bata ko,” she added.
Roda recalls the difficulties of her youth when she had to walk almost 20 kilometers to attend school, without financial means to pursue her education.
Today, ALS has provided her with an opportunity she never thought she would have.
“Para sa akon, dako gid ini nga oportunidad, dako gid nga bulig,” she expressed with gratitude.
The stories of Lyn, Lyka, and Roda reflect the transformative impact of ALS on individuals who once thought they had lost their chance at education. ALS is not just a program but a bridge to new possibilities, offering hope, skills, and the confidence to achieve their dreams despite life’s adversities.
These brave individuals are proving that it is never too late to pursue education. They are living examples of the power of perseverance, demonstrating that regardless of age, circumstances, or setbacks, one can always rise above and strive for a brighter future./PN
