How a post on ATI Northern Mindanao's official Facebook page changed the story of a dreamer who became an EAsY Agri scholar, graduated Cum Laude, and is now a licensed agriculturist
by: Maria Merjure V. Apao
Grit, perseverance, and passion, despite poverty, are key ingredients to achieving one’s dreams. For Licensed Agriculturist Junnard S. Coronel, however, there was an additional factor: a single Facebook post that changed the course of his life. In the realm of social media, a single (positive) post can resonate profoundly, altering lives in ways that are often unimaginable.
Humble Beginnings
Braving the scorching heat of the sun and walking several kilometers every day, Junnard Coronel’s journey began in the rural barangay of Salaysay, Quezon, Bukidnon. As an elementary student, he walked approximately three to five kilometers every day for six years just to attend classes at Salaysay Elementary School.
Junnard’s simple joys during those times included receiving rubber boots or a raincoat from his parents to protect him from the rain and dirt during his daily trek to school. However, life was far from easy. With all his siblings attending school, he witnessed how his parents often had to borrow money from neighbors to provide for their daily needs.
To alleviate the financial strain on his family, Junnard looked for opportunities and took on various jobs. He cleaned houses, washed dishes, did laundry for neighbors, sold citrus fruits, and even engaged in selling phone cases online. These experiences not only instilled a strong work ethic but also fueled his determination to rise above poverty.
Struggles in Pursuit of a Dream
Determined to break the cycle of poverty, Junnard aspired to earn a college degree. His resolve was tested again after passing the Central Mindanao University College Admission Test (CMUCAT). The financial burden of rent, daily expenses, and tuition fees loomed large, especially after his father was diagnosed with tuberculosis, making him unable to work effectively as a small-scale farmer.
At one point, Junnard contemplated abandoning his ambition to get an education due to financial constraints. However, his resilience led him to seek scholarship opportunities that could support his academic ambitions.
A Facebook Post That Changed Everything
In 2019, while browsing Facebook, Junnard stumbled upon a post shared by a former high school teacher about the EAsY Agri scholarship program offered by the Agricultural Training Institute-Regional Training Center X (ATI-RTC X).
Without hesitation and with a hopeful heart, he applied for the scholarship. After rigorous screenings and interviews, Junnard was selected as one of the inaugural EAsY Agri scholars—a decision that would become a pivotal moment in his life. The scholarship provided him with essential financial support of PHP 6,000 monthly during his first two years of college, along with additional funds for books and tools during the pandemic. In his junior and senior years, the monthly allowance increased to PHP 6,500 with the same semester grant and a one-time grant of PHP 15,000.
Such financial assistance not only enabled Junnard to continue his education but also allowed him to support his family during hard and trying times.
Excelling in Academics and Leadership
Grateful for the opportunities afforded to him through the scholarship, Junnard fully dedicated himself to academic excellence. He diligently maintained a high general weighted average and graduated Cum Laude. His leadership skills excelled when he was elected Chairperson of the Department of Animal Science at CMU for the 2023-2024 term.
On November 22, 2024, Junnard celebrated another significant milestone—he passed the Agriculturist Licensure Examination, becoming the first licensed agriculturist in his family. Reflecting on his journey, he shared, “Maayo jud kaayo ang Ginoo sa among kinabuhi kay gihatagan gyud mi niya sa unsay among gikinahanglan. Usa ana ang EAsY Agri scholarship program.” (God has truly been good to our lives because He has provided us with what we need. One of those is the scholarship program).
About the EAsY Agri Program
The EAsY Agri Program of the ATI is designed to support children of smallholder farmers and fishers pursuing degrees in agriculture and related fields. By providing equal opportunities for education, this initiative has empowered numerous students like Junnard Coronel to realize their dreams and foster change within their families and communities.
Junnard's story is not just about personal triumph; it reflects a broader narrative of hope and transformation made possible through community support and educational opportunities. His journey serves as an inspiration for those who aspire to overcome adversity and achieve their dreams through hard work and determination.
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