President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has called on student-beneficiaries of the government’s scholarship program to remain dedicated to their academic pursuits, framing education as the ultimate “wealth” that ensures long-term stability and success.
The President addressed 130 Presidential Scholars during a gathering at the Lagao Gymnasium in General Santos City on May 1.
During his message, he emphasized that the opportunity provided to them should be utilized to its fullest extent.
“Mapakinabangan ninyo ito at mag-aral kayong mabuti at napakahalaga ng magandang edukasyon,” the President told the students.
The scholarship initiative is part of the “Bawat Bayan Makikinabang” program, funded through the Socio-Civic Projects Fund (SCPF).
Under this framework, the national government allocates ₱200,000 to each barangay, with 50 percent of that amount specifically earmarked to support five scholars per village with ₱20,000 each.
“‘Yung kalahati nun… ₱20,000 ang ibibigay sa limang scholar,” Marcos explained, noting that the program targets students who face the risk of dropping out due to financial hurdles, particularly those nearing graduation.
The President noted that the goal of the cash assistance is to remove the “financial barrier” that often prevents talented students from obtaining their degrees.
He stressed that a diploma is more than just a piece of paper; it is a foundation that empowers individuals to uplift their families and contribute to their communities.
Reflecting on the enduring nature of learning, the President characterized education as a permanent possession that remains immune to external threats.
“‘Yan ay kayamanan na kahit ano pa ang mangyari ay hindi na mababawi sa inyo, hindi kayang agawin, hindi kayang nakawin ‘yan,” he said.
He urged the scholars to maintain discipline and focus, assuring them that the effort invested in their studies would pay dividends throughout their lives.
“Dapat seryoso kayo sa pag-aaral at hindi kayo magsisisi,” he added.
The event in General Santos City also featured the distribution of 10-kilogram sacks of rice to over 5,000 families under the Bagong Pilipinas Rice Program and the rollout of financial aid to various local government units in Sarangani and South Cotabato.