ARDCI - Agricultural and Rural Development for Catanduanes, Inc.

Geared up for college life: The ARDCI “magic four” scholars namely Perlie B. Noora, Charmine I. Pongan, Doreen Marcos, and Arlyn B. Trevalles (front:left to right) cease for a pose with the board and management officers – Mrs. Alma T. Villanueva-Operations Head, Mr. Edgardo C. Bonifacio-Board President, and Mr. Danilo B. Tiburcio-Chief Executive Officer (rear:left to right) during the signing of scholarship agreement held last May 28 at ARDCI Head office. This is another milestone for ARDCI’s dynamic effort to help Catandunganons.

The dubbed magic four are Charmine I. Pongan (Tucao, Caramoran), Doreen Marcos (Sta. Ana, Panganiban), Arlyn B. Trevalles (Pagsangajan, San Miguel), and Perlie B. Noora (Tominawog, San Andres) who will receive college degree scholarship  after emerging  survivors out of thirty applicants during the screening.

The program which was created by the ARDCI, a microfinance organization catering micro-lending services and community based support programs is the organization’s new horizon of extending its services through scholarship for children of members.

“We have four scholars each representing the four branch offices. After passing tough test during the qualifying examination, together with their parents, they shall sign a contract that is bound to ARDCI thrust and policies”, said Jannette S. Marquez, Human Resource and Development Unit Head.

The contract stipulates that scholars should maintain a benchmark academic performance as one of the conditions through the whole year course.

“Parents also must play their part. They should maintain Quality Membership (QM) status. This is their responsibility in the development program abreast to the standard that their scholars maintain”, added Mrs. Marquez.

According to Chief Executive Officer Mr. Danilo B. Tiburcio, the boom of financial operations will dictate if ARDCI could expand the program even in mainland.

“We also have branches in Albay, Legaspi, Sorsogon, and Camarines Sur that need the same benefits as we have here. However, if our financial operations could warrant, we will reinforce this program all throughout Bicol”, the CEO said.

“It is the dream of this organization to help not only alleviating the low economic profile of our members but also helping them invest in education and support especially those potential children of members who can’t afford high school fees. ARDCI always stands to make a difference and this is a big leap if we will succeed in our aim”, he ended.

The ARDCI Board President Mr. Edgardo C. Bonifacio, CEO Mr. Tiburcio and the scholarship committee officiated the signing of the contract.