Bulacan Agricultural State College (BASC), in a cooperative partnership with the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), successfully hosted the Culminating Activity of the Kaunlaran at Kabuhayan sa Barangay (KKB) – Cash for Work Program for college students and graduates on Monday, October 13, 2025, at the BASC Multipurpose Gymnasium. The event celebrated the commitment and efforts of the beneficiaries and immediately transitioned into a Ceremonial Payout, providing timely financial assistance to support the participants’ education and career journeys.

The activity was highlighted by the presence of key officials who underscored the significance of the government’s investment in youth development. Dr. Cecilia S. Santiago, BASC Vice President for Academic Affairs, delivered the opening message, acknowledging the participants and emphasizing the college’s role as a platform for empowering its students. Messages of support were also provided by Dir. Rolando D. Villacorta Jr., Deputy National Program Manager for Operations, and Mr. Aladin L. Naje, Deputy Regional Program Manager, Regional Program Management Office (DSWD Field Office III, KALAHI-CIDSS), both commended the students’ diligence and dedication. Following the messages, Ms. Neychel Anne S. Parungao, Social Welfare Officer III from the Regional Program Management Office (DSWD Field Office III, KALAHI-CIDSS), presented the Program Highlights, announcing the project’s major accomplishment: a total payout of Php 5,465,395.82 to be distributed to 415 BASC beneficiaries. She also proudly noted that four beneficiaries have already been absorbed by their immediate supervisors and are now working at BASC.

A critical component of the day was the career-focused segment, which aligned the temporary work experience with future professional opportunities. Ms. Anna Marie Jennifer D. Gudadhe, Registered Psychologist and Unit Head of SWSU, led the Career Pathing Discussion. Ms. Gudadhe provided valuable insights, psychological support, and detailed future career prospects for the beneficiaries.

The program also featured heartfelt Words of Gratitude from chosen CFW beneficiaries, who shared how the cash assistance and experience directly supported their academic and personal needs. Following an intermission number by the BASC Liping Tagalog Folkloric Group, officials proceeded with the Awarding of Certificates of Completion and the much-anticipated Ceremonial Payout, solidifying the partnership’s tangible contribution to the community.

#SDG1NoPoverty

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#BASCExcellence #DSWD #KALAHICIDSS #TatakBASC #StudentEmpowerment