Empowering Mindanao's Youth: The Assisi-CSFJ Partnership

The Assisi Development Foundation’s Educational Assistance Program (EAP) supports students from underprivileged families who show both academic potential and financial need. By covering tuition and other educational expenses, the program enables deserving students to complete their education.

Before 2013, students of Colegio de San Francisco Javier (CSFJ) largely shouldered their own tuition. That year, through the initiative of Fr. Zafra, Assisi partnered with CSFJ to extend financial aid to academically gifted but disadvantaged students. Initially managed under the CESCOD Dipolog chapter led by Ms. Jojo Leyson and Ms. Sanie Pelpinosa, the program later transitioned to direct partnership. Since 2019, CSFJ has worked directly with Assisi, recognized for its strong performance under the leadership of Ms. Jacquelyn Dee.

As a Focal Person since the program’s inception, I have witnessed how the scholarship motivates students to excel academically while fostering community involvement. Grantees not only strive for higher grades but also organize activities with children, women, and senior citizens—developing both competence and social responsibility.

Throughout this partnership, I have collaborated with three program managers: Ms. Jacquelyn Dee, Ms. Ma. Victoria Borres, and now Ms. Marilyn Lazaro. While paperwork initially posed challenges, improvements under Ms. Lazaro’s leadership have streamlined reporting and strengthened support. Her personal visit to our remote school in Mindanao, including home visits to grantees, reflects Assisi’s deep commitment to student success.

The role of a Focal Person is not without challenges, but with the support of a small team, I remain focused on compliance and efficiency, ensuring students continue receiving their much-needed assistance. The reward lies in seeing graduates succeed—many have become board passers and licensed professionals who quickly find employment after graduation. Their stories are proof of the program’s lasting impact.

My dedication comes from a belief in loving service. Regardless of workload or incentives, I am committed to giving my best for our grantees. While no one is immediately ready to take over this role, I continue because I know the value of this mission.

Looking ahead, I am confident that the Assisi Development Foundation will continue building partnerships and empowering students to achieve their dreams. This program is a beacon of hope, and I am proud to contribute to its success.

Fearl Joy D. Alumbro, Colegio de San Francisco Javier Focal Person, Rizal, Zamboanga del Norte