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PASIG CITY, November 15, 2022 – Ten inspiring public elementary school learners who showed their exceptional tibay (resiliency) in difficult circumstances were hailed as this year’s Batang Matibay awardees.

Four Batang Matibay from Luzon, namely, Sean Geralyn Mara of Muzon Pabahay ES from Schools Division Office (SDO) of San Jose Del Monte, Bulacan, Isabelle Lara Miranda of San Pedro Central ES, and Xoanne Kyle Ocampo of Chrysanthemum Village ES from SDO San Pedro, Laguna, and Matt Jayrus Evangelista of Tibig ES from SDO Batangas City attended the awarding ceremony held in Pasig City.

Also awarded as Batang Matibay 2022 were Daryl Ashlei Teves of Virac Pilot ES from SDO Catanduanes, Mark John Alayon of Pres. Manuel A. Roxas Memorial School North from SDO Roxas City, and Jerald Pelonita of Mandi-i ES from SDO Guihulngan City in Visayas, while from Mindanao were Marchilyn Guinahon of Lantad Integrated School from SDO Misamis Oriental, Jessca Solania and Cryzon Jay Ambinang of Renibon ES from SDO Cotabato.

The Batang Matibay awardees exemplified tibay and showed optimism in overcoming physical and emotional obstacles just to pursue their education to help their families, to serve as a leader, and finish their studies for a matibay future.

“Simula 2018, naging katuwang na ng Department of Education ang Bear Brand Philippines sa pagkilala sa tibay ng mga kabataang Pilipino sa pamamagitan ng programang Batang Matibay awards. Taon-taon, magkasama kami sa paghahanap ng mga natatanging mag-aaral na nagpakita ng tibay sa mga pagsubok sa buhay, at nagsilbing inspirasyon sa kanilang mga pamilya, guro, at kapwa mag-aaral,” said Undersecretary for Legislative Affairs and Partnerships Atty. Gerard Chan, CESO I.

“We aim to highlight the importance of education, health, and nutrition in every child’s development and their journey toward a better life,” Russell Lipchin, Business Executive Officer of Bear Brand, said in his welcome remarks.

Each awardee received Php 50,000 cash prize, a college scholarship grant, a recognition plaque, and gift packs. Their respective schools also received a recognition plaque, laptop, and gift packs.

One of the Batang Matibay awardees, Sean Geralyn Mara, shared her story to help her family with their daily needs. His older brother who has Autism was her inspiration in overcoming adversities in life and in pursuing dreams.

“Natutulungan ko po sila mommy sa mga gawain, syempre po may mga gawaing bahay pa rin po, para po makapag-focus si mommy, ako nalang po sa pag-aalaga sa kapatid ko, nagiging bonding na rin po namin ‘yon,” Mara shared.

Mara wants to be a neurologist one day to understand and provide better care for her brother and other people.

 

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