About 40 parents took time out from their daily tasks to participate in the first Parent Leaders’ Training Workshop at Tagoloan Central School last November 20. The participants represented Grade One parents of 10 public schools in Tagoloan, Misamis Oriental.

Despite the gloomy weather that day, the parents were in good spirits. They drew much inspiration from the sharing of Mrs. Maria Elena Abrea, who gave practical lessons, actual scenarios and personal experiences on good parenting. A resident of Misamis Oriental, Mrs. Abrea is not only regarded for her work as Vice Mayor of the municipality of Villanueva but for being a good mother to her six children.

An interesting Q&A interaction with Grade Six students, where the participants learned how children feel toward their parents’ expression of love and discipline, proved to be an eye-opener. They particularly appreciated the value of listening to their children and understanding their views instead of thinking that, as parents, they are always right. Atty. Audie Paduganan, SB Member and PMT Chair, challenged the parents to give better support to their children at home, as well as their wholehearted commitment to the success of thereading program.

In response, the parents signified their pledges of support in a ceremonial turnover of commitments witnessed by Tagoloan Mayor Paulino Emano. Mayor Emano, for his part, thanked the school heads, STEAG, Synergeia and everyone who dedicated their time and resources to make the workshop a fruitful event for the parents.

The parents’ training is one of the key activities of the Tagoloan reading program supported by STEAG and implemented in partnership with Synergeia.