29/05/2025
Reminiscing โฑiso Ko, Transistor Mo: A Lifeline of Learning in the Time of Crisis
During the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, when the world stood still and classrooms fell silent, a small but determined movement found its voice over the airwaves.
It was 2020. In the remote barangays of the provinces of Northern and Eastern Samar, the pandemic had shut down traditional education, leaving thousands of students without access to learning. Internet connectivity was scarce, and online classes were not a feasible option for many.
In response to this crisis, the Humanitarian Order of Sierra Falconรจs, in partnership with the Department of Education (DepEd) Divisions of Northern and Eastern Samar, launched an ambitious project: โPiso Ko, Transistor Mo.โ
The concept was simple, yet profoundโa community-driven initiative where every peso could help provide a transistor radio to a child in need. But this was only part of the vision. Through the tireless efforts of volunteers, local educators, and government support, we established 9 fully operational FM radio stations across Northern and Eastern Samar. These stations became the heartbeat of the project, broadcasting lessons, educational programs, and a message of hope.
๐๏ธ Radio-Based Instruction (RBI) became the bridge between educators and learners. Teachers from DepEd adapted learning modules into radio scripts, and our FM stations carried those lessons to far-flung barangays, sitios, and islands places where physical presence and digital access were impossible.
๐ก What started as a humanitarian response grew into an educational revolution. We werenโt just delivering content; we were preserving dreams, nurturing resilience, and reinforcing the right to learn, no matter the circumstances.
Today, as we look back, we celebrate not only the success of โPiso Mo, Transistor Koโ but the spirit behind it. It was about people coming together, believing that education must continue, and that even in the darkest moments, we can find creative, compassionate solutions.
To all who donated a peso, volunteered time, voiced lessons, or helped build these stations brick by brickโthank you. To our partners at DepEd Northern Samar and DepEd Eastern Samar, your dedication made it all possible. The echoes of your commitment still resonate across the airwaves and in the lives youโve touched.
Let this be a reminder: Innovation doesnโt always come from the top; sometimes, it starts with a transistor and a community that cares.
During the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, when the world stood still and classrooms fell silent, a small but determined movement found its voice over the airwaves. It was 2020.
