MARAWI CITY (PIA) – Beneficiaries of the government’s educational assistance program for decommissioned Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) combatants are carrying stories that echo the hopes and aspirations of many in conflict-affected areas. Through this program, the children of former MILF combatants are finding new opportunities for a brighter future—one where education is key.
Sultan Asren Nathangcop, a 4th-year student majoring in Communication and Media Studies, shared the courageous decision made by his father to lay down arms and embrace peace. This sacrifice, he said, paved the way for a better life for his family.
“Ito ay isang mahirap na hakbang, ngunit ito ay isang desisyon na ginawa nila para sa kapayapaan,” Asren said. (This was a difficult step, but it was a decision made for the greater good of peace.)
This sacrifice has allowed Asren to pursue his dreams and contribute meaningfully to his community. As one of the 171 student grantees of the educational assistance program rolled out by the Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation and Unity (OPAPRU), the Task Force for Decommissioned Combatants and their Communities (TFDCC), and the Mindanao State University (MSU) System, Asren is part of a program designed to provide educational opportunities for decommissioned MILF combatants’ children in Lanao del Sur. The aid is part of the socio-economic development initiative under the Annex on the Normalization of the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro.
“Ang programang ito ay patunay ng dedikasyon ng gobyerno, ng MILF, at nang lahat ng mga taong walang pagod na nagtatrabaho para sa kapayapaan sa Mindanao. Ang tulong pang-edukasyon na ito ay hindi lamang isang regalo kundi isang pamumuhunan sa aming hinaharap. Isang pamumuhunan sa hinaharap ng aming komunidad. Ito ay isang pagkakataon para sa akin na bumuo ng mas magandang buhay. Isang buhay na malaya mula sa anino ng higwaan.”
(This program is a testament to the dedication of the government, the MILF, and all those tirelessly working for peace in Mindanao. This educational assistance is not just a gift, but an investment in our future, an investment in the future of our community. It is a chance for me to build a better life—one that is free from the shadow of conflict.)
Asren also expressed his gratitude to OPAPRU, TFDCC, especially his father, Amenoding Nathangcop, acknowledging him as a key figure in their family’s transformation.
Lifeline for Students
For other beneficiaries, the educational aid serves as a lifeline, alleviating their burden of tuition fees and other educational expenses.
Haifah L. Banie, a resident of the remote town of Marogong, is currently studying for a Bachelor of Science in Social Work in Marawi City. As a program recipient, Haifah shared how the financial support has made a difference in her ability to continue her studies.
She stressed that financial struggles are one of the major barriers for students, making this aid invaluable.
“Sa mga bumuo sa programang ito, nagpapasalamat kami dahil tumutulong sila sa amin. So thankful ako sa program nila,” Haifah expressed. (We are grateful to those who created this program because they are helping us. I am so thankful for their program.)
Saniya Datu, a third-year Nursing student from Barangay Papandayan in Marawi City, shared her excitement about her future. Once she completes her studies, she plans to support those in need, especially the sick. She also expressed her desire to provide a better life for her parents.
Saniya’s mother, Nanayaon, also expressed gratitude for the program, especially during these challenging times. “Ang tulong na ito ay malaki ang maitutulong sa aming anak, lalo na ngayong panahon ng krisis, at kami, mga magulang, ay nahihirapan financially,” she said. (This assistance will greatly help our daughter, especially during this time of crisis when we, as parents, are struggling financially.)
She said the support would make a difference in her daughter’s education.
Encouragement to Fellow Grantees
Asren urged his fellow grantees to make the most of the opportunity. He encouraged them to dedicate themselves to their studies and aim for excellence to build a more promising future for themselves and their communities.
“Let us dedicate ourselves to our studies, aim for excellence, and leverage our education to create a more promising future for ourselves and our communities,” Asren said.
Now, with the power of education in their hands, Asren, Haifah, and Saniya are forging their own paths—a living testament to the power of peace and education. Their stories remind people that despite the challenges, they can achieve their dreams and build a brighter future because of peace dividends. (APB/PIA-10 Lanao del Sur)
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