𝐒𝐭𝐫𝐞𝐧𝐠𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐁𝐨𝐧𝐝𝐬 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐂𝐨𝐦𝐦𝐢𝐭𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭: 𝐒𝐀𝐀𝐃 𝐆𝐞𝐧𝐞𝐫𝐚𝐥 𝐀𝐬𝐬𝐞𝐦𝐛𝐥𝐢𝐞𝐬

Tagaytay SAAD General Assembly

February 16, 2025

On February 16, 2025, 59 SAAD beneficiaries attended the Tagaytay SAAD General Assembly at the BP-Tagaytay Office. The assembly aimed to update beneficiaries on program policies, discuss compliance requirements, and gather feedback on services.

The event began with an opening prayer and a short activity encouraging beneficiaries to reflect on the importance of support and kindness. An energizer followed, after which the monitoring and compliance policies were discussed. Ms. Carmacete explained the new monitoring tools categorized by education level and the adjustment of the grade requirement. Some beneficiaries raised concerns about the increase, and it was clarified that the change was meant to encourage better academic performance rather than pressure them. A discussion on allowable absences due to valid reasons was also conducted.

The team distributed evaluation forms to gather feedback on the foundation’s programs and services. Beneficiaries were assisted in filling out the forms, particularly the younger ones. The forms were collected and will be reviewed to assess areas for improvement.

In addition to educational support, the foundation’s other services were introduced, including nutrition and wellness, human and spiritual formation, and family services. It was emphasized that these components are not just formalities but are intended to benefit the beneficiaries’ overall development.

An open forum allowed beneficiaries to voice their concerns, particularly on reimbursements and financial support for school expenses. Issues such as delays in reimbursements and challenges in obtaining official receipts were acknowledged, and the team assured them that these matters would be discussed further. Before concluding, senior high school and college beneficiaries stayed behind for a briefing on their community service responsibilities.

SAAD General Assembly in Batangas

February 22, 2025

On February 22, 2025, the BP-Tagaytay team visited Agoncillo and Laurel, Batangas, to conduct the SAAD General Assembly for beneficiaries and their parents.

The first session was held at Wenceslao Trinidad High School in Laurel, with 12 beneficiaries and 11 parents in attendance. The session began with a wellness check, where participants shared their current emotional states. Beneficiaries then completed evaluation forms assessing the foundation’s programs. Ms. Carmacete provided a detailed explanation of compliance requirements, including maintaining a general average, attending values formation seminars, and submitting academic documents.

The discussion also covered community service requirements. Parents were reminded of the importance of submitting verification forms, with alternative submission options provided. Future activities for Batangas beneficiaries, such as team-building sessions, were also introduced. The foundation sought feedback on previous activities, including the Christmas gathering.

The team then traveled to Agoncillo, where 18 beneficiaries and 20 parents participated in a similar assembly at Bilibinwang Chapel. Concerns about the grade requirement policy were raised, particularly for students with passing general averages but low grades in specific subjects. It was clarified that while the overall average meets the requirement, the signed agreement (Kasunduan) states that no subject should have a failing mark.

Additionally, monitoring tools for Child-Only Support beneficiaries were discussed, as at least one participant fell under this category. The assembly concluded at 5:00 PM after final discussions and feedback collection.

These assemblies serve as a platform to ensure transparency regarding program requirements and foundation policies while addressing beneficiaries' concerns and gathering feedback to improve service delivery.