The University of Southeastern Philippines—College of Arts and Sciences (CAS) reached a significant milestone on October 11, 2024, with the successful completion of the Turnover and Training on the Implementation of Instructional Materials for the Bagobo-Tagabawa Christian School in Astorga, Sta. Cruz, Davao del Sur.

This event marked the conclusion of Project 2 under the PANGANDOY Extension Project, following extensive training and workshops focused on developing course guides and learning materials designed to support inclusive education for the Bagobo-Tagabawa community.

The turnover ceremony commenced with an invocation led by Pastor Nick Estrrella, followed by an inspirational message from Pastor JR Loquias, both of whom serve as administrators of the Bagobo-Tagabawa Christian School. Pastor JR conveyed heartfelt gratitude, noting that the project had answered their prayers. He emphasized that teaching is a divine mandate and that there is a responsibility to guide future generations in the preservation of cultural values.

Assoc. Prof. Sajed S. Ingilan expressed his joy over the project’s accomplishments during his opening remarks, while Project Leader Dr. Catherine M. Roble provided a brief overview of PANGANDOY’s progress, proudly stating that the initiative had transitioned from a mere aspiration to a realized dream. The official handover of the teacher’s guides and instructional materials for Mathematics, Language, and Filipino symbolized the fulfillment of this dream. Matanem Reynante D. Talabon, a local tribal leader, performed a ritual of blessing of the materials, with representatives from USeP-CAS, including Dr. Roble, Asst. Prof. Joy R. Risonar, Assoc. Prof. Ingilan, and Dr. Angelo Lenard E. Yu, in attendance. Indigenous Peoples’ Mandatory Representative, Ms. Lorily A. Meano, also participated in the event, reminding attendees of the profound importance of initiatives like PANGANDOY for Indigenous communities.

An engaging storytelling session, led by Asst. Prof. Risonar and Bai Maricel A. Talabon, featured the big book created by Bachelor of Arts in English Language (BAELAL) students. The story, Si Matsing at si Panu, was shared with the students of the Bagobo-Tagabawa Christian School, who actively participated in the activity. The Bachelor of Arts in Literature and Cultural Studies (BALCS) students also crafted a Filipino version of the story to further enrich the learning experience.

Subsequently, a series of turnovers, endorsements, training, and implementation followed, facilitated by USeP-CAS faculty. For the Filipino subject, Assoc. Prof. Luden L. Baterina and Asst. Prof. Junil A. Altes led the initiatives, while the Mathematics materials were overseen by Assoc. Prof. Remegia L. Ganot, Assoc. Prof. Fe F. Largo, Assoc. Prof. Percival B. Cabang, and Ms. Lohve G. Sotomayor. Language and Literature training was facilitated by Dr. Yu and Asst. Prof. Risonar.

The event also featured a moving presentation from the students of Bagobo-Tagabawa Christian School, followed by a traditional Bagobo-Tagabawa song performed by one of the female elders for the CAS faculty. Matanem Reynante D. Talabon expressed deep appreciation to USeP-CAS for its sincere commitment to supporting their community, particularly through the creation of culturally relevant learning materials that will help preserve the values and traditions of future generations in Astorga.

The day concluded with a communal meal, where members of the Bagobo-Tagabawa community and USeP-CAS faculty and staff shared food and fellowship, further strengthening the bonds forged through the project.

The word PANGANDOY translates to desire, wish, or dream. With the successful implementation of Project 1, a long-held dream has come to fruition—not just for individuals, but for the entire Bagobo-Tagabawa community of Astorga. The project has laid the groundwork for revitalizing, celebrating, and preserving their language, culture, and identity, with the hope of creating lasting ripple effects in the community proving that the greater dream is when we dream for others and act upon it.

Looking ahead, Project 2 of the PANGANDOY Extension project is spearheaded by Mr. Francis N. Reginio, Head of the USeP-Institute of Language and Creative Arts, and is underway in its project goals. PANGANDOY Project 3 will focus on the publication of culturally significant materials, with Assoc. Prof. Sajed S. Ingilan leading the initiative alongside committee members.