Tampakan South Cotabato, Philippines | February 11, 2026 – Through the free-education program of South Cotabato Governor Reynaldo Tamayo Jr., another inspiring success story has emerged—proving that opportunity, when paired with perseverance, can truly change lives.
From a humble beginning shaped by hardship, Jorlina B. Elisan, a BSED–Science graduate, is now living her long-held dream of becoming a public-school teacher under the Department of Education.
Originally a resident of Tacurong City and now based in Tampakan, South Cotabato, Elisan began her teaching journey as a Provincial School Board (PSB) Teacher assigned at Palo-19 National High School, where she served as a dedicated Grade 7 Science teacher.
Elisan’s path was never easy. Growing up in a broken family, she learned independence at an early age.
Her father became the family’s breadwinner, working tirelessly to support her education, while she carried her father’s dream of seeing her become a teacher.
Despite emotional and financial struggles, Elisan credits her strength to the people who believed in her and encouraged her to stay positive in life.
“ Bilang isa ka bunga sang Broken Family indi nangin mahapos,” Elisan stated.
She shared that the Provincial School Board program of the Provincial Government of South Cotabato played a crucial role in shaping her career.
While waiting for an opportunity, she learned about PSB openings and immediately applied—without hesitation.
She was eventually hired and assigned to a far-flung area in Tampakan, where she gained invaluable classroom experience.
“For me, PSB was life changing. Even if the honorarium was modest, the experience, knowledge, and growth I gained as a teacher were priceless. PSB became my steppingstone,” she said.
Elisan emphasized that it is indeed possible for a province to directly hire teachers, noting that South Cotabato stands as a strong example of this initiative—an effort that continues to strengthen the education sector and expand opportunities for the province’s learners.
