CEBU CITY, October 16, 2026 – Gothong Southern Foundation joined Cebu City Don Carlos A. Gothong Memorial National High School (Gothong High School), the Rotaract Club of Cebu, and the school’s Indigenous Peoples Education (IPED) community for the Indigenous Peoples Month Celebration and the re-launching of the IPED 3KSB Program, held at the school’s AVR.
3KSB stands for Kaayuhan, Kalambuan sa Kabataang Sama-Badjao, or the well-being and progress of Sama-Badjao youth. Gothong High School has been Gothong Southern’s adopted school since 2020, and in recent years, the program is an ongoing initiative with the Rotaract Club of Cebu.
A Quick Look Back
3KSB began as a feeding program for the school’s Badjao students. Gothong Southern leadership liked the effort but challenged the team to build something longer-term and more effective. After getting to know the students and visiting their community, the team shaped a program of mentorship and wellness to help young Badjao learners find direction during their high school years. The first batch completed the wellness program in March 2020, and even when its first partner could no longer continue (University of San Carlos), the program kept going through new partners and the passion to help our Badjao learners.
A Program Rooted in Community
The October 16 re-launching opened with a procession led by IPED Club officers and IP learners, followed by an opening prayer and the singing of the national song. Dr. Charlie L. Salve, School Principal IV, delivered the welcome remarks, and Maricille M. Espina, Program Coordinator, presented the statement of purpose.
Paolo N. Diaz, Chief Strategy Officer of Gothong Southern, shared an inspirational message on behalf of the Foundation. He was joined by Past President Rolan E. Ramirez of the Rotaract Club of Cebu.
A Renewed Partnership
A memorandum of agreement (MOA) was signed by Gothong Southern Foundation, Gothong High School, and the Rotaract Club of Cebu, renewing their shared commitment to the program.
The program also included a video presentation by Jessa Mae C. Pacaña, an IPED advocate, and a recognition of participants and partners led by Helna C. Aujero, the school’s IPED Focal. Barry O. Dolloso, Assistant School Principal II, gave the closing remarks.
Ending with a Dance
The afternoon closed with a community dance that brought everyone together, with learners, teachers, guests, and partners all joining in.
Just the Beginning
The re-launching is only the start. Gothong Southern Foundation looks forward to creating a meaningful exchange with its learners, one where support flows both ways: we walk with them as they grow, and we listen to and learn from their culture, stories, and aspirations.