Songkoy (Philippines), 10/01/2024, Sr. Rosy Karippai.- The sisters of the Songkoy Community of the Philippines, in collaboration with the Archdiocese of Lingayen-Dagupan and the Cristo Divino Tesoro Parish, officially launched the Re-entry Education Agenda for the Poor (REAP) Project. This initiative, spearheaded by Archbishop Socrates Villegas, seeks to provide transformative educational opportunities for marginalized youth within the archdiocese.
The REAP Project was formally launched on September 26, 2024, at the Marie Poussepin Community Development Center in Songkoy, marking a pivotal moment for the community. The launch was graced by the presence of Archbishop Socrates Villegas, Fr. Jerone Geronimo, OP (the head of the REAP Program), Fr. Estephen Mark Espinoza (Parish Priest of Cristo Divino Tesoro), along with two faculty members from the REAP Department, tutors, benefactors, students, and their parents.
The program included a solemn blessing of the center, formal launch of the project and messages by Archbishop Villegas, Fr. Jerone, Fr. Estephen, and Sr. Rosy Karippai, each emphasizing the importance of education in transforming the lives of the youth. Archbishop Villegas, in his message, highlighted how education not only provides knowledge but also instills values of hope, perseverance, and spiritual growth, crucial for the well-being of the youth in today’s society.
The REAP Program, initiated by UST Angelicum College in Quezon City aims to offer free, Catholic-based basic education to out-of-school youth and adults. This holistic program not only provides essential academic instruction but also fosters spiritual development and personal growth. Through its comprehensive curriculum, REAP equips the learners with critical skills, instilling values of resilience, responsibility, and empowerment.
The launch of the REAP Project is a beacon of hope, ensuring that out-of-school youth and adult learners in the Archdiocese have access to life-changing educational opportunities. Sr. Rosy is appointed as the REAP Site Coordinator, who will work closely with Fr. Estephen for the implementation of the program.
This initiative represents a collaborative effort of the Archdiocese of Dagupan, Dominican Sisters, UST Angelicum College, and various benefactors and volunteers.
Blessing of the REAP Site
MOA Signing
Sr. Rosy delivering an inspirational message
Archbishop Villegas address the audience
MPCDC as REAP Site