Mindanao Educators are now Architects of Change

Mindanao Educators are now Architects of Change


FOSTERING TEAMWORK: Project Synergy participants from DepEd Region 11 celebrate their triumph over the rope courses and challenges at RAFI KAC, Balamban, Cebu.

A total of 237 principals and non-teaching personnel of the Department of Education (DepEd) from Mindanao became architects of change after undergoing Project Synergy, an experiential learning program by City Savings Bank (CitySavings) in partnership with the Ramon Aboitiz Foundation, Inc. - Kool Adventure Camp (RAFI KAC) in the first half of 2017.

The participants from Regions 10, 11, 12 and 13 join the ranks of over 1,000 enlightened leaders trained through this program designed to transform educators into proactive leaders and catalysts for positive change in their respective communities.

“Project Synergy is CitySavings’ way of giving back to the community. The bank has always focused on education related Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives. We hope that this program will enable you to learn and become better individuals and leaders”, shared CitySavings Regional Business Head for Southern Mindanao Amor Pavon in one of his opening remarks.

RAFI KAC Facilitator Leo Urpiana added that “This is a professional development program designed for people like you. Project Synergy gives you the chance to connect with other leaders and share best practices. Ultimately, we want you to bring positive change to the work that you are doing and to your schools.”

The program empowers participants and nurtures a synergistic relationship in their schools. “Project Synergy has taught me how to improve my working relationship with my colleagues and address concerns to bring people together” shared Christian Sango, Principal of Dr. Beato C. Macayra National High School, Baganga, Davao Oriental.

Maria Ferido, Principal of Magugpo Pilot Central Elementary School, Tagum City, Davao del Norte, highlighted that she had a paradigm shift on leadership. “Project Synergy taught me how to be a leader with a heart and the differences of a manager and a leader which is very fit for my career. This is the best time for me to reassess and improve on my leadership style to be more effective and efficient. CitySavings is now part of my journey as a leader and as a better individual” she emphasized.

“Project Synergy provided an avenue for learning and a support system which is relevant in achieving our goals as an organization”, said Roy Rele, Education Program Supervisor II of DepEd Caraga (Region 13).

Looking after the welfare of our Filipino public school teachers remains at the forefront of our education related Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives together with the Department of Education (DepEd). This is part of our commitment to help create a better learning environment and consequently fulfill our purpose to drive change for a better world.