Inspiration is a powerful force; it drives us to act and transforms ordinary hearts into courageous heroes. This is the story of such inspiration, where the true givers are those first inspired by the act of giving.
Under the dark starlit skies, the Region Eight Administrators League (REAL) officers gathered at the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) Regional Office 8 compound.
They were busy arranging styrofoam boxes filled with school supplies destined for hundreds of young learners in the remote towns of Lavezares and Lapinig, both in Northern Samar.
The journey from Tacloban City to these towns is a grueling 9-hour trek each way.
The beneficiaries of this project are Villaflores Elementary School in Lavezares and Alangalang Elementary School in Lapinig.
This initiative required significant time, effort, and personal contributions from the REAL organization. Founded in 2003, REAL has established itself as a leading organization of regional leaders in government agencies, consistently exemplifying selfless service.
The “Halad Para Han Kabubuwason” project aims to inspire. Modest elementary schools are visited, where students receive school supplies or learning kits, and their families are provided one-time assistance from the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD).
The goal is to fill their hearts with hope, inspire positive actions, and enhance overall motivation for both learners and their parents.
At Villaflores Elementary School, all students received learning kits, and cash assistance was given to their parents. Similarly, the more than a hundred pupils at Alangalang Elementary School in Lapinig were also provided with the same support.
The joy of the students and the gratitude of their parents made the trip worthwhile, as REAL president Dr. Max Aljibe declared.
“To help selflessly, with nothing expected in return, is a genuine sacrifice,” Aljibe, who is also the regional director of the Commission on Higher Education (ChEd), said.
His dedication, exceptional leadership, and commitment to excellence distinguish him within the league.
Fondly known as RD Max by friends and colleagues, he has over 35 years of experience in government service, including a groundbreaking tenure as director of administrative services at DepEd central.
He has also served as executive assistant to Secretaries Jaime Laya and Ric Gloria.
Dr. Aljibe has been a hands-on leader throughout his career and has worked in CHED Mindanao and Central Visayas. His appointment as REAL president has been celebrated by regional directors and leaders in Eastern Visayas.
The Halad Para Han Kabubuwason project is the first under RD Max’s presidency. With the support of DSWD Director Grace Subong, who is also REAL co-treasurer, the cash assistance for impoverished families was facilitated.
REAL has once again demonstrated that a local organization, despite limited financial resources, can make a significant impact through sincerity and a genuine desire to help. This project has inspired people and ignited hope in their years.
(CLEMELLE L. MONTALLANA)
