AFTER over a year of service under Mayor Rolando "Klarex" Uy, the dream and aspiration of establishing a city college for those who have struggled to access higher education have finally come to fruition.
"This significant milestone was achieved as Mayor Klarex signed the Contract of Usufruct," said City Mayor's Office chief of staff Shiela Lumbatan, Tuesday.
Lumbatan said Mayor Uy's signing was between the Higaonon Indigenous Cultural Communities of Nahiliran Dansolihon, represented by Datu Roberto Cabaring (Datu Makilala), witnessed by the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP), represented by NCIP Provincial Director Atty Jerie Ragsac on Sept 19, 2023.
In his (Uy) message, according to Lumbatan, Mayor Uy expressed his indescribable joy and gratitude to a higher power as, in his tenure, his dream has been realized.
"The Contract of Usufruct signifies the official agreement between the city government and the Higaonon Indigenous Cultural Communities," Lumbatan explained granting the city the right to use the land where the city college will be built.
She added this collaboration between the local government and the indigenous communities aims to provide educational opportunities for those who have faced difficulties in pursuing higher education.
The establishment of a city college is expected to bring transformative changes to the community, offering affordable and accessible education to the residents, according to Lumbatan.
"It will not only empower individuals with knowledge and skills but also contribute to the overall development and progress of the city," Lumbatan shared.
The college will prioritize programs that align with the needs and aspirations of the community, ensuring that the courses offered are relevant and beneficial to the students.
Mayor Uy emphasized that education is a powerful tool for social mobility, and by establishing the city college, they are breaking down barriers and creating equal opportunities for everyone.
He expressed his commitment to ensuring that the college operates with excellence, providing quality education and supporting the student's holistic development.
"The signing of the Contract of Usufruct marks a significant step forward in the realization of Mayor Klarex's vision for education in the city," said Lumbatan.
She added that with the support and cooperation of the indigenous communities, the city is now poised to establish a college that will uplift lives and empower generations to come.
"The mayor's office, along with the local government, is determined to make this endeavor a success, with the ultimate goal of creating a brighter and more prosperous future for all, said Lumbatan.
Additionally, Dr. Alicia Anghay, who serves as the focal person on education and executive director of the Local School Board, played a crucial role in the efforts leading up to the signing of the contract.
Her (Anghay)dedicated work and expertise have been instrumental in ensuring that the city college project aligns with the goals and needs of the education sector, according to Lumbatan.
It is worth noting that the contract signing received overwhelming support and approval from the 20th City Council, led by Vice Mayor Jocelyn "Bebot" Rodriguez.
The council members recognized the importance of investing in education and unanimously granted Mayor Klarex the authority to sign the contract, emphasizing their commitment to the advancement of education, particularly for those who are in greater need.
Present during the contract signing were Dr. Jestoni Babia, the interim president of the city college, along with Ms. Maria Victoria Trinidad and key officials from the City College-Technical Skills and Technology Department.
Also in attendance were Lumbatan herself and department managers from the city hall, highlighting the collective effort and collaboration involved in bringing this project to fruition.
The combined expertise and dedication of all individuals involved in the contract signing signify the collective commitment to prioritize education and provide opportunities for the community's advancement, Lumbatan explained.
"With the foundations now in place, the city college project is set to move forward, ushering in a new era of educational opportunities and empowering countless individuals to achieve their dreams," she said.
