THE Regional Festival of Talents (RFOT) 2024 in Northern Mindanao is officially open after the launching ceremony led by the Department of Education (DepEd) in partnership with the provincial government of Misamis Occidental.
Some 1,700 student-delegates from 14 school divisions in Northern Mindanao attended the kick-off that was held at the Working Congressman Cultural Center, Tudela Gymnasium. The students are expected to participate in various RFOT activities representing various areas all over the region.
Misamis Occidental Gov. Henry Oaminal Sr. welcomed the students and Vice President and concurrent Education Secretary Sara Duterte, who attending the launching ceremonies.
“Indeed, it is with great pleasure that we are gathered here today for this fantastic event, which brings together talented students from the region,” said Oaminal. “This is a celebration of creativity, passion, and the limitless potential that resides within the younger generation in Region 10.”
The governor thanked Duterte and the DepEd for providing platforms such as the RFOT for the enrichment of young learners in Northern Mindanao.
“We cannot ever underestimate the significance of programs such as the Regional Festival of Talents in our objective to raise the next generation of hardworking, earnest, and bold leaders,” Oaminal said.
Duterte in turn expressed her gratitude to the provincial government, legislative district representatives of the region, as well as the mayors of local government units, for their cooperation in initiatives for the education sector.
She acknowledged the successful gathering of talented elementary, secondary, and Alternative Learning System students all over the region, and shared her hopes that the program will spark inspiration for more Filipino learners.
“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,” said Duterte.
“It is a chance for us to learn with each other, grow together, and most importantly inspire one another,” she added.
This year’s RFOT theme is “Galing, Talino, at Husay ng mga Batang Makabansa sa Diwa ng Matatag na adhika.” It airms to provide young learners, including students from the Alternative Learning System, a platform to showcase their talents, skills, and values.
The RFOT features various activities including Sining Tanghalan, Special Needs Education (SNED), Lingo Star, STEMazing, MOSABAQAH, and Population Development, among others.
Top participants of the festival’s activities will advance to the National Festival of Talents (NFOT), scheduled for July 2024 in Naga City, Cebu.
