Governor Oaminal turns dreams into reality: Benerando Basan receives new home, support for future success

 

Plaridel, Misamis Occidental--In a celebration of athletic excellence and perseverance, Governor Henry S. Oaminal, along with his family and the support of Plaridel Mayor Gadwin Handumon, made a significant gesture of generosity on January 13, 2025, during a house blessing and turnover ceremony at Barangay Panalsalan, Plaridel, Misamis Occidental.

They handed over a newly built two-bedroom home, complete with water and electrical connections, to three-time gold medalist Benerando Basan, a young athlete from Misamis Occidental who triumphed at the 2024 Northern Mindanao Regional Athletic Association (NMRAA) Meet.

Governor Oaminal praised Benerando’s extraordinary achievements, which brought immense pride to the province. At just 13 years old, Benerando won three gold medals in long jump, triple jump, and the 400-meter relay during the NMRAA 2024 in Camiguin. This accomplishment not only showcases his athletic talent but also highlights the power of determination and resilience.

Governor Oaminal said that Benerando’s success is a shining example of what can be achieved through hard work and dedication. He emphasized that the province is committed to providing young athletes with the resources they need to excel and make Misamis Occidental proud. Benerando’s journey serves as an inspiration to all, showing that with perseverance, dreams can indeed be achieved.

As part of the province’s recognition, Benerando received a ₱150,000 cash reward, along with a promise of free education up to college. Governor Oaminal emphasized that this support aims to secure Benerando’s future and motivate other young athletes to pursue their goals.

Benerando’s journey to success is a testament to his resilience. The fourth of five siblings, he hails from a humble family, with his father working as a carpenter and his mother employed in Manila. Despite the challenges, Benerando’s dream has always been to help his parents and improve their modest home in the marshlands of Plaridel.

In his message, Benerando expressed his immense gratitude to Governor Oaminal for fulfilling his dream of owning a home and land. “Salamat, Gov, nga natuman ang akong gipangandoy nga naa mi kapuy-an nga balay ug yuta nga libre,” Basan said, promising to cherish the home as a symbol of victory, not just for him but for all Misamisnons.

Benerando’s father shared his deep gratitude, highlighting how much this new home means to their family. “Dako gyud kaayo ang akong pasalamat ngadto ni Governor Henry Oaminal, ingon man sa iyang board members ug ni Mayor Gadwin Handumon, uban sa mga konsehales. Dako akong kalipay aning higayuna. Sa akong anak nahitabo nga ing-ani, bisan wala ang iyang inahan. Kaning balaya gyud kinahanglan atimanon ug dungagan pa nako sa akong paningkamot,” Benedicto Basan said.

Plaridel Mayor Gadwin Handumon also expressed his joy and pride in the event, noting how Benerando’s victory motivated the provincial government’s support. “Despite sa kalisod sa pamilya, nganong nakakuha man ug 3 gold medals si Benerando during NMRAA 2024 in Camiguin nga maoy nakainganyo ug nakapa motivate ni Gov. Henry Oaminal. Ang ato ani dili lang si Benerando kundili daghan pang Benerando nga ma produced nato ilabina sa atong lungsod sa Plaridel. Atong paningkamotan nga makahatag ta ug suporta nga mahatag nato sa atong mga athleta sa uban pang mga pamaagi,’’ Mayor Handumon said.

(Despite the hardships faced by his family, Benerando was able to win 3 gold medals during the NMRAA 2024 in Camiguin, which inspired and motivated Governor Henry Oaminal. What we have here is not just Benerando, but many more Benerandos that we can produce, especially in our town of Plaridel. We will strive to provide the support that our athletes need through various means.)

Governor Oaminal’s support for Benerando aligns with his broader vision of empowering the youth through sports and education.

The promise of free education and the financial assistance are not only meant to celebrate Benerando’s athletic success but to secure his future. With a stable home environment and the opportunity to pursue higher education, Benerando can continue focusing on his academic and athletic goals, leading to even greater accomplishments.

As Benerando moves forward in his journey, he carries the hopes and aspirations of Misamis Occidental, shining brightly as a true champion. (SN/PGMO)

Governor Henry S. Oaminal along with his family, with the support of Plaridel Mayor Gadwin Handumon, turned over a new home to NMRAA 2024 three-time gold medalist Benerando Basan during a heartfelt house blessing and turnover ceremony.

A dream fulfilled, a life transformed. Benerando Basan now owns a home and land—completely free—thanks to the generosity of Governor Henry S. Oaminal and the Oaminal family.