FLORA, Apayao – The Department of Education Apayao conducted the two-day ALS Festival of Talents on December 7-8, 2023, at the Flora Central School to showcase the talents and skills of 250 Alternative Learning System (ALS) learners of the province.
Graced by Hon. Mayor Rodolfo B. Juan Sr., CES-CID Joy D. Saleng, EPS, Dep-Ed Mr. Arnold A. Tomas, dedicated teachers, and support staff, the event drew participation of ALS learners hailing from various municipalities of the province.
The festivities included competitions such as singing contests, dance contests, poster/slogan making, essay writing, quiz bees, spelling bees, basic encoding, basket weaving, and bazaar exhibits, all carried out alongside their respective ALS teachers.
The municipal government hosted the said event, which centered around the theme “Demonstrating Resiliency of Learners During the New Normal through Showcasing Skills and Talents in Culture, Arts, and Technology.” The overarching objective of the event was to develop a literacy culture by providing a platform for ALS learners to exhibit their talents, engage in friendly competition, and showcase mastery of competencies.
In the entire province, 612 learners are currently enrolled in the ALS program of the education department.
Hon. Mayor Rodolfo B. Juan expressed his commitment to the ALS Program, stating, “Iti beddeng iti LGU Flora, we can appropriate and allocate for the ALS Program,” believing that it is one of the essential programs of Dep-Ed to cater to the needs of young people who cannot afford to go to school.
Highlighting the importance of outreach, he added, “Mamati ak nga i-reach out dakayo dagiti ay-ayaten tayo a manursuro tapno agbalin kayo a maysa a silaw iti luglugar nga ayan yu.”
Mayor Rodolfo has further pledged support by providing one unit of motorcycle for the mobilization of ALS teachers to reach out to students. Additionally, 200 square meters of space at the Old Market area will be allocated for the ALS office. By PIO Apayao
