Tampakan, South Cotabato — For many students in remote communities, finishing college remains a distant dream shaped by financial struggle. But for Bon Ryan Jimenez, that dream is now within reach, fueled by determination and sustained by an educational lifeline that helped him stay in school against the odds.
A resident of Tablu, Tampakan, Bon is among the beneficiaries of Sagittarius Mines, Inc. (SMI)’s Educational Assistance Program, an initiative aimed at helping underprivileged yet deserving students pursue their studies and build a better future for themselves and their families.
“Sukad sa nahimo kong benepisyaryo sa SMI educational assistance hangtod karon nga hapit na ko makahuman, dako kaayo akong pasalamat kay nahimo silang dakong kabahin sa pagtuman sa akong pangandoy,” Bon said.
Now a graduating student at Southeastern Institute of Technology, taking up a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education, Bon stands as a testament to how access to education can transform lives. Coming from a modest household, he shared that the assistance significantly eased the financial burden on his parents.
“Dako kayo ang tabang sa akoa, kay maka-less gastos ang akong parents sa pangbaon, pamasahe, ug usahay sa mga gastusin sa eskwelahan sama sa projects,” he added.
SMI’s Educational Assistance Program provides financial aid to students in host and neighboring communities, covering various school-related expenses. More than just monetary support, the program aims to empower young individuals by giving them the opportunity to finish their education and pursue meaningful careers.
Bon considers himself fortunate to be one of the many scholars who benefited from the initiative. He emphasized that the opportunity should be valued and maximized through dedication and hard work.
“Dapat naa gyud tay goal, paningkamotan ang pag-eskwela ug dili sayangon ang chansa nga gihatag sa atoa, kay dili tanan nabahinan ani nga oportunidad,” he said.
As he prepares to graduate, Bon is not only focused on achieving his personal goals but also on inspiring others in his community. He encourages fellow beneficiaries to remain open-minded and to support initiatives that contribute to development.
“Dili ta magpabiling one-sided sa mga isyu labi na bahin sa mina. Hunahunaon nato nga ang SMI dako na gyud ug natabang, ug mas daghan pa gyud sila matabang sa future. Mao nga suportahan nato sila,” Bon said.
This story highlights the broader impact of educational support programs in rural areas where each scholar represents not just an individual success but hope for an entire family.
As Sagittarius Mines, Inc. continues to expand its community development efforts, its commitment to education remains a cornerstone helping shape future professionals like Bon, who are determined to give back and uplift others.
For Bon Ryan Jimenez, the journey has not been easy—but with perseverance and support, he is now one step closer to turning his dreams into reality, carrying with him the hopes of his family and the promise of a brighter tomorrow. (30)
