Learning Experience Transformed: New ALS Classroom Tested Through Collaboration, Support
In a triumphant five-month endeavor, Aldrin Joseph R. Loresto, a driven educator, spearheaded the creation of a cutting-edge Alternative Learning System (ALS) classroom at Pardo Elementary School in Cebu City. Loresto recognized the dire need for a communal classroom for ALS students who were left out of the traditional school system due to various circumstances.
On May 5, 2025, the state-of-the-art ALS classroom was officially unveiled, marking a significant leap in access to education for the community. The project, initially a humble idea, gradually gained momentum and support from key stakeholders.
The project's inception was kick-started by Loresto, who leveraged his connections within the Department of Education to secure approval for the location. In January 2024, Loresto reached out to then-Consehal Donaldo Hontiveros, expressing his need for support and assistance.
Hontiveros, chairperson of the committee on education and scholarship, took notice and lent his support by acting as a sponsor for the project, securing funds from the Edgar Cokaliong Foundation. Loresto emphasized the importance of these spaces, stating, "Classroom is not just for literacy-they're also spaces for teaching livelihood skills. For the longest time, we didn't have one".
On February 21, 2025, the Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) was signed by key stakeholders, including Chester Cokaliong, founder and trustee of the Edgar Cokaliong Foundation; Hontiveros; and the principal of Pardo Elementary School, Mr. Ricardo Aman.
The groundbreaking ceremony was attended by education officials, ALS teachers, ALS students, and community members who showed their unwavering support for the project. Within two months, the construction of the classroom was complete, thanks to the generous support of everyone involved.
The official turnover ceremony was held on May 5, 2025, with Cokaliong, Hontiveros, Aman, Dr. Jerlyn G. Palata, Sheila V. Baculi, Roy Guarin, Dr. Liberato Lauranilla, ALS teachers, students, and community stakeholders in attendance.
Loresto expressed his gratitude to Hontiveros, the Edgar Cokaliong Foundation, and the other contributors for their unwavering support and commitment. The new classroom now stands as a beacon of hope, perseverance, and the power of community for ALS learners, providing a much-needed space for them to learn, grow, and thrive.
For the community, this classroom serves as an inspiration, a testament to the power of collaboration and determination, and a stepping stone towards a more inclusive education system.
Reference:  https://www.researchgate.net/publication/334296702_Alternative_Learning_System_ALS_Enhancing_Access_to_Education_for_Out-of-School_Youth http://www.cebu307.com/ https://www.edgar.ph/for-investors/filipino-investors/donaldo-hontiveros/ https://www.cebu307.com/ http://www.cebu307.com/ https://www.cebu307.com/
- The Alternative Learning System (ALS) classroom in Cebu City, pioneered by educator Aldrin Joseph R. Loresto, has opened the doors to education and self-development for many students who were otherwise left behind by the traditional school system.
- Loresto's project, now complete, is a significant achievement marked by the strong support of stakeholders like donors and education officials.
- Online education platforms are being considered as an additional means of learning for ALS students to ensure their learning continuity and to adapt to the evolving needs of education.
- Mga stakeholders, including the Edgar Cokaliong Foundation, Loresto, and the principal of Pardo Elementary School, collaborated in the creation and development of this educational space for ALS learners.
- The new ALS classroom in Cebu City is not just a space for traditional learning, but also a hub for teaching livelihood skills, aiding learners in their overall development and future prospects.