Earlier today, the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Field Office Caraga successfully conducted the Ceremonial Signing of the Memorandum of Agreement of the Tara, Basa Tutoring Program (TBTP) at the Tribunal Building, Dapa, Siargao Island, Surigao Del Norte.

Attended by DSWD Undersecretary Eduardo Punay, DSWD Caraga Regional Director Mari-Flor Dollaga, Assistant Regional Director for Operations Jean Paul Parajes, local partners in the Department of Education (DepEd), Surigao del Norte State University (SNSU) and other local government officials, the ceremonial signing of the MOA among DSWD, Local Chief Executives and SNSU signifies the start of the program’s implementation in the region, especially in the municipalities of Dapa and General Luna, Surigao Del Norte.

The Tara, Basa Tutoring Program is a reformatted educational assistance in the tertiary level as it aids low-income families and college students while empowering them to be involved in nation-building through Cash-for-Work. It is a developmental social protection program that contributes to the attainment of Sustainable Development Goals Nos. 1 and 4 – ending poverty in all its forms and promoting inclusive and equitable quality education and lifelong learning opportunities for all.

During her opening remarks, DSWD Caraga Regional Director Mari-Flor Dollaga expressed her utmost gratitude to the local government officials of Dapa and General Luna, as well as the agencies’ partners in the Department of Education (DepEd) for all of their support in the Department’s efforts to launch the TBTP in the region.

“Kaya lubos po kaming nagpapasalamat lalong-lalo na po si secretary Rex Gachalian dahil ito po ay isa lamang sa mahabang listahan ng mga flagship programs na inangkla po sa vision ng ating President Bongbong Marcos para sa Bagong Pilipinas,” RD Dollaga said.

DSWD Undersecretary Punay pointed out his and the Department’s vision of transforming DSWD from dole-out projects into programs that focus on improving the lives and welfare of Filipinos. Furthermore, he is optimistic that programs such as the TBTP would usher in that vision.

“When we came into office, we envisioned to transform the department from dole-out projects and make it more into developmental programs. We hope our tutors can be part of our nation building under the leadership of President Ferdinand Bongbong Marcos Jr., which is also the vision of the Bagong Pilipinas,” he said.

General Luna Mayor Sol Matugas proclaimed her full support of the program, saying “In behalf of my constituents, I’m all for Tara, Basa.” Mayor Matugas believes that the TBTP is a platform that would save children from the path of ignorance.

“Somebody said, if you think excellence is expensive, try ignorance. I say this because Tara, Basa is really geared towards excellence. Excellence in life skills, excellence in work skills, and excellence in unlocking opportunities for everyone,” she added.

Wrapping up the MOA signing, ARDO Parajes cited the TBTP’s mission in transforming lives through literacy and education. It is much more than just a cash-for-work program.

This initiative is more than just as program, it is a movement that empowers learners, inspires tutors and uplifts communities,” he said.

The successful ceremonial signing of the Tara, Basa Tutoring Program MOA marks a transformative milestone for Caraga, uniting national agencies, local governments, and academic partners in a shared mission to combat poverty and elevate educational access. By intertwining Cash-for-Work opportunities with community-driven tutoring, the TBTP not only addresses immediate economic challenges but also sows the seeds of lasting change through literacy and skill development.

As DSWD Caraga, Dapa and General Luna take pioneering steps in implementing this initiative, the program embodies the spirit of Bagong Pilipinas—a future where collaboration, empowerment, and sustainable progress uplift every Filipino. With stakeholders aligned in vision and action, the TBTP stands poised to turn the tide against ignorance and inequity, paving the way for a generation equipped to thrive.