Broadcast journalist Daniel Razon spearheaded the opening of the newest educational facility in Caloocan City, the La Verdad Christian College (La Verdad College) on June 15. This is another bold step in public service which responds to the need for college education among the less privileged youths in the country.

Together with Ang Dating Daan host Bro. Eli Soriano, Razon worked for the country’s first free college education to help especially the poor but deserving high school graduates and out-of-school youths (OSY’s) who desire to finish studies and acquire a college diploma worry-and-hassle-free.

“There are those who really want to study but they hardly can … One may be capable of studying but cannot do so … (Now) why not give them a chance as well? For as long as we see the potential, the willingness to learn and [we see] the sincerity and perseverance, we will help them,” Razon said in an interview.

An educator himself, Razon experienced the difficulty of working one’s way to finish studies and attests how hard it was also for some of his former classmates to pull through college, one of them he had to help by working while both were striving to earn a degree.

Razon, also the Chairman and President of La Verdad College, reveals that the school gains support from private individuals and NGO’s who share the same vision with Bro. Eli Soriano, founder and President Emeritus of the College. Among these institutions include the Kamanggagawa Foundation, Kabalikat sa Pamamahayag or KAPI, and the Members Church of God International [known locally as Ang Dating Daan].

La Verdad College scholars will be receiving a full grant which includes free tuition, books, uniform, and meals. In the future, additional free bus service and dormitory will be provided to students who may find it hard to commute.

Razon’s free education program also received much help from fund raising events and projects he helped organized, such as the YCONCON: Isang Araw Lang, The Sequel in August of 2009, Isang Araw Lang Takbo Para Sa Libreng Kolehiyo on January 31, Isang Araw Lang The Movie, and KAPI’s benefit concert Another Night to Remember last June 1. The initial capital outlay of PhP35-million was funded by Bro. Eli Soriano and Mr. Daniel Razon for the construction of the projected ten-story building in the College’s present site.

Initially, 500 scholars are expected to enroll both in Apalit, Pampanga main branch and in Caloocan this school year. They will be enjoying a four-year degree AB Broadcasting course and two-year diploma-courses such as Computer Programming, Mass Communication, International Cookery, Office Management, and Nursing Assistant, all TESDA accredited programs.

Razon hopes that the College will have more branches in other parts of the country, and eventually reach the University level.

The inaugural of the La Verdad College building coincides with the opening of school year 2010 – 2011.

Written by Chris Anne Gonzales