TAMPAKAN, South Cotabato – For the past four years, Arjay M. Leop has been doing more than driving a school bus. Every school day, he safely transports more than 100 students, helping ensure they can attend classes without the burden of transportation expenses.
A father of three, Leop said he understands the challenges parents face in keeping their children in school, making his role even more meaningful.
“Malipay pud ka molantaw, kay sa mga ginikanan nga pigado, makatabang pud ka sa mga estudyante nga ma-libre. Siyempre, ako nga usa ka driver, usa pud ko ka amahan nga naa pud koy mga anak nga ga-eskuwela. Dako gyud kaayo ang tabang sa gastos kay naa may bus nga libre,” he said.
The free school transport service is a partnership between the Barangay Local Government Unit of Pulabato and Sagittarius Mines, Inc. (SMI).
Through its annual Social Development and Management Program (SDMP), SMI covers the school bus driver’s salary, fuel, and vehicle maintenance, ensuring the service remains available throughout the school year.
Before the program was introduced, students paid around ₱30 for a one-way trip. For families with two children attending school, transportation expenses could reach as much as ₱120 a day, placing a heavy financial burden on many households.
“Kung duha imong estudyante, ₱120 gyud ang plete sa mga estudyante,” Leop recalled.
Leop said one of the most fulfilling aspects of his work is seeing former passengers complete their education and pursue their careers. He also treasures the gratitude expressed by parents whose children have benefited from the program.
“Gapasalamat pud baya sila og magkita mi. Ingon sila, ‘Daghang salamat.’ Proud ko sa akong tabang sa among barangay,” he shared.
He likewise acknowledged SMI’s continued support in sustaining the transport service, describing the program as a lifeline for many families in Barangay Pulabato by removing the burden of daily commuting costs and helping students remain in school.
“Dako gyud nga pasalamat sa mga ginikanan diri nga tungod sa SMI nga mitabang diri sa Pulabato. Miingon sila nga dili na gyud sila mabigaduhan,” he added.
For SMI, supporting education extends beyond fulfilling its SDMP commitments. By investing in initiatives such as free student transportation, the company continues to demonstrate its commitment to responsible mining through programs that create meaningful and lasting benefits for host communities by improving access to education. (30)
