Here is the pastoral statement of the clergy of the Archdiocese of Capiz read during the rally: "Representing the Religious Sector, we, the clergy of the Archdiocese of Capiz, speak in behalf of the people of Capiz, particularly those who are suffering because of the increased power rate brought about by the PPA. We believe it is our duty to advocate for the transformation of society, especially for the alleviation of the plight of the poor, the least, the last, and forgotten. While statistics on poverty are daunting, the personal aspect of poverty compels us to become actively involved in behalf of the needy. Social action is not just the preservation of some special interest groups. It is an imperative of faith for the Christian. Pope John Paul II says: "Love for others, and in the first place love for the poor, in whom the Church sees Christ Himself, is made concrete in the promotion of justice."

The statement said the PPA is onerous for the poor and for the people. It is against the common good. Proverbs 14:31 says: "Those who oppress the poor insult their Maker, but those who are kind to the needy honor Him."

"In consideration thereof, we enjoin our people to implore God to enlighten the government in solving this problem. In the event of the impossibility of doing away with the PPA completely, we are here convened at this "Prayer Rally" to create a social pressure on government authorities, for them to renegotiate with independent power producers (IPPs) so that the burden of payment will not be to heavy for the people to carry. We lament as "various projects aimed at development and plans for building the economics of nations have not fulfilled their promise, but instead have produced inequalities and enabled only a small portion of the population to raise its standards of living, while at the same time, leaving many to remain in poverty and some to be forced to the margins of society." The exploitation of the vulnerability of the less fortunate towards selfish interests should stop. All should work for the common good. We must strive to "improve unjust structures, whether in the economic, political, cultural or government realms, as well as of building a new culture of life characterized by love, truth, honesty and justice."

The statement concluded:

"We put ourselves together in this "Prayer Rally" with great faith and confidence that God will not abandon us. We wait for the Lord, ever conscious of what the prophet Isaiah says: "Those who wait for the Lord shall renew their strength. They shall mount up with wings like eagles. They shall run and not be weary. They shall walk and not faint."
 

The yearly activity is designed to generate funds to be channelled to various livelihood projects and scholarship grants of another batch of out-of-school youth in the city.

This was disclosed during the project's executive committee meeting presided by Engr. Mansueto Aguirre representing Kabalikat Civicom 371, the overall chairman of Alay Lakad 2002. The meeting was held to finalize preparations for the activity this month.

Brig. General Alcasid assumed office as commanding general of the 3ID based at Camp Macario Peralta in Jamindan town last January replacing Maj. Gen. Pedro Atienza who has also served for more than a year.

The annual fund raising project has served a total of 332 OSYs in the city since 1991.

The actual walk will be participated in by various government offices, public and private schools, local officials and employees and nongovernment as well as civic organizations that will be divided into four groups. Each group will have an assembly area and will converge at the public plaza here.

Leah Baes, City Social Welfare and Development chief, will present during a short program the project's beneficiaries of study grants and livelihood project like newspaper vending, blacksmithing, haircutting and barbershop, electronics repair and silkscreen printing.

The program will also highlight a personal testimony of a sophomore Alay Lakad scholar recipient studying at a state college here and awarding of Outstanding contingents in different categories like biggest contribution by private and public schools, civic organizations and government offices and most disciplined and colorful contigents.

The fund raising activity with the theme "Hakbang Mamamayan Kinabukasan ng Kabataan" will also be graced by philanthropic city officials led by Mayor Antonio del Rosario, the project's honorary chairman, and povincial officials.
 

There were five passers for high school and one for elementary. For high school the passers are Sarah Jane Biboso, Richard Andrei Kristoffer Bunda, Jessa Daquiado, Psykhe Fusin and Michelle Lara. Rubelyn Labaton passed the test for elementary level.

The test was given to out-of-school youths and adults 15 years old and above who, for reason or another, failed to finish their elementary or high school education. A certificate equivalent to an elementary or a high school diploma and signed by the Secretary of Education was awarded to the passer. This would enable him or her to enrol in high school or college.

Commission oh Higher Education (CHED) accredited colleges and universities and any school that is a member of Philippine Association of State Universities and Colleges (PASUC) will accept passers of the equivalency test in their schools provided that they pass the entrance exams and the requirements given by the school. Passers can also enrol in vocational and technical skills program of TESDA.

Passers will also have a chance to become permanent government employees for positions or items that need elementary or high school certificates required by the Civil Service Commission.

Dr. Iluminada Ocbina, Education Supervisor I for non-formal education in Capiz and that another examination will be scheduled later this year. This will help many out-of-school youths and adults who would like to continue their education.