Facilitated by soldiers who are graduates of education courses, most of the activities were demonstrated through psychomotor learning like dancing, singing, and drawing.

“We endeavor to encourage children to enjoy learning while fostering determination and perseverance to fulfill their dreams,” Lt. Col. Aquino said.

The battalion targets to engage with kindergarten and elementary schools in the geographically isolated, disadvantaged, and formerly conflict-affected areas of the province. 

As of now, the KM Learning Project has visited five schools.

Brigadier General Felix Ronnie Babac, commander of the 1001st Infantry Brigade, also expressed enthusiasm, saying that the innovative approach may develop core memories for the kids as they may perceive it as the best learning experience in their childhood.

KM Learning Project also went to schools, where the villages were former strongholds of the NPA - Pagsabangan Elementary School in New Bataan town on September 27; Boringot Elementary School and Piasusuan Elementary School, both in Pantukan municipality, on October 12.

Aside from these, soldiers also showcased the learning project to the Madrasa schools in Barangay Binuangan, Maco town, on September 30.

“For so long, this area had been a war zone, and the children here had developed a stigma against men in uniform. Now, we are overjoyed to see them dancing and being so approachable and friendly.”

Teachers also expressed elation that they were visited by the KM project.

“In all my years of teaching here, this is the first time I have witnessed an Army activity that focuses on students' learning,” Eugene Nacion, head teacher of Piasusuan Elementary School, said.

Nacion added that it is their first time to be visited by troops without guns but with books, songs, inspiration, and entertainment. (MLU/PIA Davao de Oro/Photos from 25IB/BES/Jhong Ceniza)