"Empowering Dreams: The Impact of Misamis Occidental's 'One Family, One Professional' Initiative"

 

In Misamis Occidental, Governor Henry Oaminal's visionary program, "One Family, One Professional," is not just a scholarship initiative; it's a transformative journey for families and communities alike. With over 3,200 scholars and counting, the program is paving the way for hundreds of young Misamisnons to pursue their chosen professions and graduate with pride.

Unlike traditional scholarship programs, "One Family, One Professional" goes beyond academic merit, focusing also on providing equal opportunities for all. Under Governor Oaminal's leadership, scholars are chosen based on their potential and commitment, not just their grades. This inclusive approach ensures that every deserving student has a chance to excel, regardless of their background.

Governor Henry S. Oaminal works hard to fulfill this dream for every Misamisnon, stating, "I envision a future where every household in Misamis Occidental boasts at least one college graduate, empowering families with professionals capable of elevating them out of poverty and enhancing their quality of life."

One of the most remarkable aspects of the program is its impact on families like the Delos Angeles'. After facing economic hardships, Romeo III's journey to becoming an Electrical Engineering graduate symbolizes hope and resilience. Romeo’s father lost his job in Saudi Arabia during the global crisis. Thanks to the program's support, the Delos Angeles family no longer has to worry about educational burdens, allowing them to focus on essentials like food and shelter.

 The De los Angeles family, whose son Romeo is set to graduate with a degree in Electrical Engineering in May, stated

“Dakung tabang sa amoa. Sauna, kada bulan  ko mag cash advance sa akong ginatrabahoan basta ting-tuition. Pero, sukad na scholar siya, wala na mi nakautang, ang among kuarta padulong na sa pagkaon (It's a tremendous help to us. Before, I used to rely on cash advances from my employer every month to cover his tuition. But since he became a scholar, we no longer need to borrow money, and our income goes straight towards providing for our family's basic needs.)

Similarly, Erlina Lemosnero Huelin's story highlights the program's role in breaking the cycle of debt. As a street food vendor, Erlina struggled to afford her son Ian's education, often resorting to borrowing from loan sharks. However, Ian's dedication and the program's assistance have not only relieved the family's financial stress but also empowered Ian to excel in his studies. Ian pledged, “I will devote myself to my studies because i know how hard it is to earn money. I will show Governor Oaminal that sending me to school is not a waste of government resources.”

For Gerald Sabijon, the son of a tricycle driver, "One Family, One Professional" represents an opportunity to defy the odds. Despite facing financial challenges, Gerald's determination to succeed in Business Administration is a testament to the program's transformative impact on individuals from all walks of life.

As graduation day approaches for these scholars, their stories serve as a reminder of the program's broader impact on Misamis Occidental's future. By investing in education and empowering families, Governor Oaminal's initiative is not just creating professionals; it's shaping a brighter tomorrow for the entire province.

The heartfelt gratitude expressed by both parents and beneficiaries underscores the profound difference the program has made in their lives. Their collective hope is for more youth and students to benefit from this initiative, ensuring that Governor Oaminal's vision of a prosperous Misamis Occidental becomes a reality for generations to come.

Gov. Henry S. Oaminal envisioned an educational assistance program that aims to ensure that in every Misamisnon family, there should be one professional with a permanent job who will help alleviate the economic plight of his family and, in turn, secure education for their younger sibling.