Plaridel, Misamis Occidental — What might seem like just another government program comes alive in the lives of young people like Ariel John Elic, a 23-year-old Political Science student at Jose Rizal Memorial State University (JRMSU) Dapitan Main Campus. As one of 3,200 scholars under the ASENSO Administration’s One Family, One Professional (OFOP) Program, Elic turned hardship into hope, using education as a pathway to break the cycle of poverty and build a better future for his family.
Elic lives in Purok 3, Barangay Catarman, Plaridel, where daily life reflects the quiet struggles faced by many families. In a Facebook post, Elic shared that their house is no longer safe to sleep in, forcing him and his remaining family members to stay with nearby relatives. With limited income and no legal right to repair the structure they live in, progress at home has been difficult. Yet despite these challenges, Elic remained focused on his one goal of finishing his education.
“Bisan paman sa ka pobrehon sa amuang pamilya wala gyud ko niundang ug eskwela.” Elic said. He understood early on that education was his strongest chance to break the cycle of poverty and build a better future for his family.
Through OFOP, Elic received critical support that helped him stay in school and continue his studies. The program, guided by the ASENSO Administration under Governor Henry S. Oaminal, has eased the financial burden for thousands of students like him, proving that government programs can reach individuals who are often unseen. Elic also thanked Plaridel Mayor Gadwin E. Handumon, whose local leadership helped bring the program to his community.
As encouragement to his fellow students, he expressed, “Busa sa mga pobre ug financially unstable dira, laban lang ta ani, mahuman ra lagi ta ug makalingkawas ra lagi ta inubanan ug pag-ampo,” he said. His words reflect the resilience and hope he holds, inspiring others to persist despite challenges.
Today, Elic continues his studies with a renewed sense of purpose. His aspiration is simple yet powerful—to finish his degree, secure stable employment, and provide a better life for his family. His story is a reminder that behind every policy and program is a human story, one shaped by perseverance and the opportunity to move forward.
As OFOP continues to support thousands of scholars across Misamis Occidental, stories like Elic’s show how government investment in education translates into real, life-changing impact for families and communities throughout the province./PGMO