DAVAO CITY — In a heartwarming gesture of support for education and community welfare, Governor Henry S. Oaminal, alongside Vice Governor Rowena Gutierrez and other key provincial officials, led the recent payout ceremony for the One Family, One Professional (OFOP) program.
The event, held at the Working Congressman Tudela Gymnasium, saw the distribution of P15,000 allowances to 2,862 beneficiaries for the last quarter of 2024. Adding to the festive spirit, recipients also received Christmas food packs to further ease their holiday burdens.
The OFOP program, a flagship initiative under the province’s Asenso Pamilya agenda, provides grantees with financial support to pursue vocational or tertiary education.
Beneficiaries receive P5,000 per month per semester, amounting to P25,000 annually, ensuring that at least one family member achieves professional qualifications.
This targeted assistance is designed to alleviate financial pressures and foster socio-economic mobility among Misamis Occidental’s families.
“Investing in education is investing in the future of Misamis Occidental,” Governor Oaminal emphasized during his address. “Through the OFOP program, we are empowering families to break free from poverty and equipping them with tools to build a better quality of life.”
The impact of the program is already evident. Many beneficiaries shared personal stories of how the support has enabled them to focus on their studies, improve their skills, and contribute to their families’ livelihoods.
Several attendees expressed heartfelt gratitude to the provincial government for providing a lifeline toward achieving their educational aspirations.
Vice Governor Gutierrez lauded the program’s transformative role, praising the provincial leadership’s dedication to education and social development.
“This is more than just financial aid; it is a step towards transforming lives and empowering communities,” she remarked.
The ceremony concluded with words of encouragement for the beneficiaries, urging them to seize the opportunities afforded by the OFOP program.
Provincial officials reaffirmed their commitment to sustaining and expanding initiatives that prioritize education, economic development, and social welfare.
The OFOP payout ceremony underscores Misamis Occidental’s continued efforts to create a brighter and more equitable future for its residents. Through impactful programs like Asenso Pamilya, the provincial government reinforces its dedication to uplifting lives and building stronger communities.
Edith Z Caduaya studied Bachelor of Science in Development Communication at the University of Southern Mindanao.
The chairperson of Mindanao Independent Press Council (MIPC) Inc.
