At least 250 presidential scholars from Dumaguete City, Bacong, and Valencia in Negros Oriental received ₱20,000 each in educational assistance during President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s visit to the province on August 17, 2026. The assistance was distributed at the Talay Sports Center in Dumaguete City as part of the scholarship component of the Bawat Barangay Makikinabang Program, which supports incoming fourth-year college students.
Supporting Students as They Near Graduation
The financial assistance provides valuable support to students preparing for their final year of college, helping ease expenses related to tuition, school supplies, and other educational needs. For scholars such as Ella Mae Rusiana, a Bachelor of Science in Business Management student majoring in Human Resource Management at Colegio de Sta. Catalina de Alejandria, the assistance can also provide much-needed support for their families.
Meanwhile, Clyde Serapio Paco, a Bachelor of Science in Industrial Technology major in Electrical Technology, expressed his gratitude for the assistance as he prepares to graduate.
Investing in Education and Families
The scholarship program aims to help students complete their college education and eventually use their skills and knowledge to contribute to their families and communities.
President Marcos emphasized that the assistance is intended not only to help scholars improve their own lives but also to prepare them to become part of a skilled and knowledgeable workforce that can contribute to the country's development.
Opportunities Beyond Government Service
The program also highlights the many ways scholars can contribute to society after completing their education. Students are encouraged to pursue different career paths, whether through business, public service, professional careers, or other forms of meaningful work. Their education and future careers can become a foundation for helping their families and communities.
