MISAMIS OCCIDENTAL (PIA) -- The Department of Education (DepEd), in partnership with the provincial government of Misamis Occidental, officially opened the Regional Festival of Talents (RFOT) on April 11 at the Working Congressman Cultural Center, Tudela Gymnasium.
This year's RFOT theme is "Galing, Talino, at Husay ng mga Batang Makabansa sa Diwa ng Matatag na adhika," which aims to provide learners from public and private elementary and secondary schools, including students from the Alternative Learning System, with a platform to showcase their talents, skills, attitudes, and values.
Approximately 1,700 delegates from 14 school divisions across Region 10 will participate in various RFOT activities, representing areas such as Bukidnon, Cagayan de Oro City, Camiguin, El Salvador, Gingoog City, Iligan City, Lanao Del Norte, Malaybalay City, Misamis Occidental, Misamis Oriental, Oroquieta City, Ozamiz City, Tangub City, and Valencia City.
"Indeed, it is with great pleasure that we are gathered here today for this fantastic event, which brings together talented students from the region. This is a celebration of creativity, passion, and the limitless potential that resides within the younger generation in Region 10," Gov. Henry Oaminal said.
He emphasized DepEd's efforts to provide platforms, such as the Festival of Talents, to enhance students' knowledge and talents while promoting the region's rich culture.
At the Festival of Talents, Secretary and Vice President Sarah Duterte conveyed her gratitude to the Misamis Occidental province, local government units, the House of Representatives, and mayors for their unwavering support of education, particularly for teachers and students in DepEd schools.
She expressed her joy and enthusiasm about joining the gathering of talented elementary, secondary, and Alternative Learning System students, seeing it as an opportunity to inspire learners for their future.
“Your presence here speaks volumes of dedication, excellence, and determination to surpass limits. As we witness your skills and abilities displayed, let us not forget the significance of this gathering. It is a chance for us to learn from each other, grow together, and, most importantly, inspire one another,’’ she said.
The RFOT features various activities, including Sining Tanghalan, Special Needs Education, Lingo Star, STEMazing, MOSABAQAH, Population Development, and more.
Winners of the contest will advance to the National Festival of Talents, scheduled for July 2024 in Naga City, Cebu Province. (PGMO/PIA-10/Misamis Occidental)