Peace partners’ dependents in Agusan Norte gain education support
By Nora L. Molde
BUTUAN CITY (PIA) — Sixteen dependents of peace partners in Agusan del Norte are now better positioned to continue their education as the provincial government provided educational assistance through the Kagawasan143 Peace and Development Center.
Aligned with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s peace and development agenda, the assistance aims to ease the financial burden on families and help beneficiaries pursue their studies, while recognizing partners or former rebels’ (FRs) contribution to sustaining peace, stability, and development in communities across the province.
Led by Governor Ma. Angelica Rosedell M. Amante, the initiative was implemented in partnership with the Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office (PSWDO) with the support of the Philippine Army.
The initiative complements the national government’s efforts under President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. to expand access to education, invest in the Filipino youth, and promote inclusive and sustainable development. By extending educational opportunities to the children and dependents of Peace Partners, the provincial government contributes to the broader peace and development agenda of building resilient families and communities.
The assistance also reflects the province’s commitment to ensuring that the gains of peace translate into concrete opportunities for families, particularly the youth, who are expected to become future contributors to development in their communities.
Amante encouraged the beneficiaries to value the opportunity and remain determined to pursue their education, drawing from her experiences and challenges.
“We must always learn to prioritize what truly matters in life,” Amante said.
She shared that the trials she experienced at a young age helped shape her strength, resilience, and determination, reminding the youth that hardships should not prevent them from pursuing their aspirations.
Amante urged the beneficiaries to embrace challenges as opportunities to grow and to remain committed to their studies, emphasizing that success is not measured by the absence of obstacles but by the determination to keep moving forward despite them.
Through educational assistance, the provincial government of Agusan del Norte hopes to empower beneficiaries to complete their studies, improve their prospects, and eventually become responsible, productive, and compassionate citizens who contribute to the province’s progress. (NCLM, PIA Agusan del Norte)
