Tupi, South Cotabato, Philippines—Students in South Cotabato are reaping the rewards of a free education program initiated by Governor Reynaldo S. Tamayo Jr. The program, which provides free education from elementary to secondary levels, has greatly benefited students, particularly those from low-income families.
One such beneficiary is Juljym A. Dumalag, a 15-year-old Grade 10 student from Barangay Cebuano who is currently studying at Cebuano National High School in Tupi. Juljym expressed his pride in the governor’s successful implementation of education programs and improvements in local infrastructure, roads, health services, and more. He highlighted the significant impact of the free education initiative, allowing him to pursue his studies without worrying about financial constraints.
“I can go to school without worrying about school fees,” he said, stressing that, “Very proud ko nga daghan siya nga nahimo. I’m very happy, sa road, sa building, sa health, sa education, everything,” Juljym stated.
His gratitude is evident, and he encourages other young people to make the most of the opportunities given to them. Juljym’s ambition is to succeed through hard work and to inspire others to do the same.
Juljym suggested that local officials focus on further strengthening programs related to education, health, and public services to continue benefiting the community.
He also proposed the addition of more computer laboratories to enhance the students’ learning experience.
This free education program among elementary and junior high school students cleared them from paying other school fees like parents’, and teachers’ fees for the Provincial Government provided school utility personnel salaries to ensure zero school payment among public schools.
