To support solo parents and provide valuable guidance to the youth, the City Government of Isabela, under the leadership of Mayor Sitti Djalia Turabin-Hataman, through the City Social Welfare and Development Office (CSWDO), and funded under the Gender and Development (GAD) program, held the Educational Assistance to Children of Solo Parents cum Orientation on Career Guidance on July 1.
A total of 50 student beneficiaries from 25 barangays each received P2,000 in educational assistance, amounting to P100,000. This initiative aims to ease the financial burden on solo parent households and encourage students to stay in school and pursue their dreams.
The program opened with a warm welcome from Shaira Bapora, who represented CSWDO Head Nor-Aina Asmara. She briefly explained the rationale behind the initiative and emphasized the importance of supporting vulnerable sectors in the community.
In her message, Mayor Turabin-Hataman expressed deep appreciation for the efforts of solo parents in raising their children, noting that despite limited LGU funds, the city government remains committed to supporting them. She also encouraged the students to study hard and aim high for a better future.
An insightful orientation on career planning and development was conducted by Director for Guidance and Counseling of Basilan State College Satra Latip-Janjaman, RGC. She shared practical advice and tools to help students make informed decisions about their academic and professional paths.
City Councilor Karel Annjaiza Sakkalahul, Chairperson of the Committee on Women, Children, and Family Affairs, expressed her strong support for the initiative. She emphasized the importance of continuously allocating resources for programs that uplift solo parents and ensure the welfare of their children.
In her closing remarks, GAD Focal Person and City Information Officer Mendry-Ann Lim reiterated the importance of utilizing the GAD fund to support marginalized groups, especially solo parents, and highlighted the city’s ongoing efforts to promote inclusive development.
This activity is part of the City Government of Isabela’s sustained commitment to social welfare and youth empowerment, reflecting its dedication to building a more inclusive and supportive community for all. (Words by E. Banding-Hadjala, CIO/Photos by J. Segovia, IsaTV)
