Amidst the cheers of proud parents and beaming graduates, a young man stood out – not because of medals and accolades, but because of the inspiring story behind his graduation.
Thirteen-year-old Jasper Surio marched across the stage as a proud elementary graduate – an achievement made possible by an unlikely team of heroes, the 803rd Maneuver Company, Regional Mobile Force Battalion 8 (RMFB 8) led by Police Captain Solomon A. Agayso, Officer-in-Charge, who believed in his potential when he was just about to start his primary education.
The young scholar has successfully completed his elementary education at Imelda Elementary School in Brgy. Imelda, Mondragon, Northern Samar on April 14, 2025. Jasper’s graduation was not only a personal victory but a shared triumph. The same policemen who once inspired him to chase his dreams sat in the audience, proudly watching as he received his diploma. His achievement is a reflection of his perseverance and dedication to have access to education, as well as a testament to how true public service can go an extra mile to touch the life of a young dreamer.
Jasper, the sixth among the nine children of a farmer and a market vendor in Silvino Lubos, Northern Samar, was adopted by the 803rd Maneuver Company in 2018, when he was only seven years old. With his parents’ consent, he has been under the custody of the police unit, who pooled their resources to provide for his basic needs, and offered to sponsor his education.
Despite the challenges of his youth, Jasper had the opportunity to study and gradually achieve his dreams with the help and guidance of his “second parents” in uniform. His graduation was personally attended by PCpt. Agayso and personnel of the 803rd Maneuver Company, in support and recognition of Jasper’s achievement.
According to PCpt Agayso, Jasper’s success is proof of the importance of unity, concern, and belief in the youth. “Education is the key to development—not just of an individual, but of the entire community. As public servants, we also have to respond to social challenges, including helping children in need,” PCpt Agayso said during the ceremony.
“We at the 803rd MC served as Jasper’s home and family in his times of need. As he enters secondary school, we will continue to be his home so that we can continue to guide his education and shape his character,” he added.
The Philippine National Police (PNP), under the leadership of Chief PNP Police General Rommel Francisco D. Marbil, has recognized this act of goodwill as a story worth emulating – a perfect example of uplifting lives and strengthening communities.
“The success of one child is a victory for us all. Sa Bagong Pilipinas, the police are more than enforcers of the law—we are champions of the future. In Jasper’s story, we witness the true essence of service: quiet, yet powerful,” he said.
Teachers and school officials also expressed their gratitude to the 803rd MC for the care and support they extended to Jasper, who now serves as an inspiration to other youths in the region.
Jasper Surio’s story is a reminder that true service is not only measured by one’s role as a guardian of peace, but also by the ability to change lives — one child, one dream, and one future at a time.
