As graduation draws near, Mark Ken Ricafort is one step closer to achieving a dream he once feared might remain out of reach.
A graduating Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science student at Aurora State College of Technology (ASCOT), Ricafort has spent years overcoming financial challenges while pursuing higher education.
Living alone while attending college, he learned to manage daily responsibilities on his own, from preparing meals and doing household chores to budgeting his limited resources.
There were times when he accepted part-time construction work to earn money for his allowance and school-related expenses.
Despite the difficulties, Ricafort remained determined to finish his studies and build a better future for himself and his family.
His journey took a positive turn when he became one of the beneficiaries of the Bawat Barangay Makikinabang scholarship program under President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.
The educational assistance helped ease his financial burden and allowed him to focus more on his academic requirements during the final stage of his college education.
For Ricafort, the scholarship became more than financial support because it gave him renewed confidence to continue pursuing his goals.
His story reflects the struggles faced by many students in Barangay Bangco, Maria Aurora, whose families rely on farming and livestock raising as their primary source of livelihood.
Barangay Captain Maria Elena Nicer said many parents in the community continue to face challenges in supporting the educational needs of their children because of limited income and rising expenses.
She noted that educational assistance programs provide opportunities for deserving students to continue their studies despite financial hardships.
According to Nicer, investing in education helps empower young people to improve their lives while contributing to the progress of their families and community.
She also expressed gratitude to President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. for bringing the program closer to grassroots communities where assistance is needed most.
For students like Ricafort, the support provided through the scholarship represents an opportunity to pursue ambitions that once seemed uncertain.
As he prepares to receive his diploma, Ricafort carries with him not only the lessons learned inside the classroom but also the perseverance gained through years of sacrifice and hard work.
His achievement serves as a reminder that determination, coupled with the right support, can turn challenges into opportunities.
Through the Bawat Barangay Makikinabang program, more students across Aurora are being given the opportunity to continue their education, overcome financial barriers, and move closer to achieving their aspirations. (CLJD/MAT, PIA Region 3 Aurora)
