Hope and opportunity took center stage during the “Patuloy na Edukasyon, Patuloy na Pag-Ahon: An Education Caravan for 4Ps Beneficiaries” under the PBBM-GABAY ng Bayan Program. The activity gathered government agencies, educators, institutional partners, and community leaders with one shared goal: to help open more doors for Filipino learners, especially beneficiaries of the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps). Among the active participants in the Mindanao Cluster Caravan held in Roadhaus Hotel, General Santos City last May 13, 2026 was Holy Child Central Colleges, Inc., reflecting its continued commitment to making education more accessible, meaningful, and transformative for students and communities.

For Holy Child Central Colleges, Inc., the caravan was more than just an event. It became a meaningful opportunity to connect with agencies and organizations that share the same vision of empowering learners through education. Through its participation, the institution further strengthened its mission of creating pathways for students to pursue their dreams despite challenges while also building stronger linkages that can bring more opportunities to its academic community in the future.

The caravan highlighted the government’s continuing efforts to ensure that education remains within reach for every Filipino learner. Participants were introduced to scholarship opportunities, alternative learning systems, technical vocational programs, and financial assistance initiatives designed to help students continue their studies despite economic hardships.

Representatives from partner agencies such as the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), Commission on Higher Education (CHED), TESDA, LANDBANK, and other stakeholders shared valuable information on educational support, skills training, and career development opportunities that can help uplift Filipino families and communities.

The participating institutions were likewise honored to briefly meet and interact with distinguished education leaders, including Dr. Myrna Q. Mallari, DBA, CPA Commissioner of the Commission on Higher Education (CHED); Dr. Ian D. Evangelista, Officer in Charge of the Office of the Deputy Executive Director IV and Chief of Staff of the CHED Chairperson; Atty. Septon A. De La Cruz, CESO III Director IV/Officer in Charge, Office of the Executive Director IV, UniFAST Secretariat; Dr. Rody P. Garcia, Director III, Officer In Charge, Office of the Director IV, CHED Regional Office XII; and Dr. Nelia A. Alibin, Director IV, CHED Regional Office CARAGA and former Director IV, CHED Regional Office XII. Their presence highlighted the strong collaboration among educational institutions and government agencies in advancing accessible and inclusive education for Filipino learners.

Representing Holy Child Central Colleges, Inc. during the event were Vanessa Marie L. Antiquin, MMEM, Executive Vice President; Dr. Erwin M. Faller, Academic Director; Mark Laurence J. Fano, LPT, MALT, CHRA, Dean of the College of Teacher Education; and John Lucas Frac, CHRA, Activity Coordinator. Their participation reflected the institution’s continued dedication to creating more opportunities through partnerships that will benefit both students and the wider school community.

One of the major highlights of the event was the presentation of the PBBM GABAY ng Bayan Program, which stands for “Programa para sa Buting Bayan at Mamamayan: Galing, Akses, Batid, at Angat tungo sa Yaman ng Bayan.” The program promotes academic excellence, access to opportunities, awareness of government services, and empowerment toward nation building.

Several key initiatives were also introduced, including the Bagong Pilipinas Merit Scholarship Program (BPMSP), Patuloy na Edukasyon, Patuloy sa Pag Ahon (PEPA), Kuwento ng Pag Ahon (TESTimonials), and the Expanded Tertiary Education Equivalency and Accreditation Program (ETEEAP), along with other educational and livelihood opportunities aimed at supporting learners and their families.

Beyond the discussions and presentations, the caravan became a source of encouragement and inspiration for many participants. Through stories, testimonies, and meaningful conversations, beneficiaries were reminded that education remains one of the strongest tools in overcoming poverty and building a better future.

Aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, the initiative promoted SDG 4: Quality Education by expanding access to inclusive learning opportunities, particularly for disadvantaged learners and 4Ps beneficiaries. It also supported SDG 1: No Poverty, SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth, and SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals through the collective efforts of institutions, government agencies, and community partners working together for inclusive development.

More than just an educational campaign, the caravan became a reminder that when institutions, communities, and government agencies work together, real change becomes possible. Through initiatives like this, Holy Child Central Colleges, Inc. continues to stand alongside learners and families in helping shape brighter futures through education.