CEBU, Philippines — A grade 6 “foot painter” from Mandi-i Elementary School in Guihulngan City under Central Visayas region emerged as one of the country’s Batang Matibay awardees this year.
Jerald Pelonita was born without arms, but his condition did not stop him from studying while also pursuing his dream of becoming a painter.
The 13-year-old Pelonita uses his foot to paint and create his masterpieces, win competitions and pursue bigger art contests.
Pelonita, in an interview, said he remains thankful to God despite his physical defects as he has also been gifted with wisdom and skills to draw and paint with the use of his foot.
The Department of Education, together with Bear Brand and Nestle Philippines, awarded Pelonita and nine other young elementary school learners from different parts of the country for their exceptional resiliency or “tibay” amid difficult circumstances.
The other awardees were Luzon’s Sean Geralyn Mara of Muzon Pabahay ES of San Jose Del Monte, Bulacan; Isabelle Lara Miranda of San Pedro Central ES, and Xoanne Kyle Ocampo of Chrysanthemum Village ES from San Pedro, Laguna; Matt Jayrus Evangelista of Tibig ES, Batangas City and Daryl Ashlei Teves of Virac Pilot ES from Catanduanes.
Joining Pelonita as awardees from the Visayas was Mark John Alayon of Pres. Manuel A. Roxas Memorial School North, in Roxas City.
Awardees from Mindanao were Marchilyn Guinahon of Lantad Integrated School in Misamis Oriental; Jessca Solania and Cryzon Jay Ambinang of Renibon ES from Cotabato City.
These Batang Matibay awardees exemplified “tibay” and showed optimism in overcoming physical and emotional obstacles just to pursue their education to help their families, to serve as a leader, and finish their studies for a good future.
“Simula 2018, naging katuwang na ng Department of Education ang Bear Brand Philippines sa pagkilala sa tibay ng mga kabataang Pilipino sa pamamagitan ng programang Batang Matibay awards. Taon-taon, magkasama kami sa paghahanap ng mga natatanging mag-aaral na nagpakita ng tibay sa mga pagsubok sa buhay, at nagsilbing inspirasyon sa kanilang mga pamilya, guro, at kapwa mag-aaral,” said Undersecretary for Legislative Affairs and Partnerships Gerard Chan.
Each awardee received P50,000 cash prize, a college scholarship grant, a recognition plaque, and gift packs while their respective schools also received a recognition plaque, laptop, and gift packs.
“We aim to highlight the importance of education, health, and nutrition in every child’s development and their journey toward a better life,” Russell Lipchin, Business Executive Officer of Bear Brand, said in his welcome remarks. — GAN (FREEMAN)