Gov. Joy Bernos gave cash gifts to the 487 Alternative Learning System (ALS) graduates during their graduation ceremony on July 18, 2019, at Bangued West Central School covered court.

Congressman JB Bernos and SBM Joaquin Enrico Bernos also attended the ceremony and assured their support to ALS. Cong. Bernos encouraged them to avail of the Congressional Educational Assistance to pursue their careers.

Gov. Bernos lauded the Department of Education for the excellent implementation of ALS in the province which resulted to an increased number of ALS graduates. This year’s 487 is a 96% increase of ALS graduates compared to 248 last year.

The Alternative Learning System (ALS) is the Department of Education’s free education program for out-of-school youth and adults who have not attended or finished elementary or secondary education. 

The program enhances basic educational capability through functional education and literacy, according to Education Program Specialist Reynaldo Calinap.

Through ALS, school dropouts are able to complete elementary and high school outside the formal school system. After completing the learning sessions, they will undergo accreditation and equivalency tests to measure their competencies.

Passers are given certificates or diplomas. They are now qualified to enroll in secondary schools.

Those who cannot attend formal education and have been out-of-school for two or more years can avail of ALS.

There are 47 ALS teachers deployed in the municipalities to facilitate learning sessions in municipal and barangay halls, churches, or any venue identified by the ALS enrollees in coordination with the LGU or barangay captain.