I understand that this number may go up further to about 540 units if we generate additional savings. Let us therefore give these groups as well a well-deserved round of applause! But beyond the computers we are turning over to the Department of Education today, I am so inspired by the change in the public mindset about the barya.
When we started our coin recirculation program, our slogan simply declared: “Ang Barya Mahalaga, Huwag Bale-wala-in gamitin.” When we launched “Tulong Barya Para sa Eskwela” our slogan changed to “Ang Barya Mahalaga, Lalo na Kapag Pinagsama-sama.” I believe this national lesson in saving proved to our schoolchildren that every little amount saved adds up and can be the start of wealth creation.