President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. on Monday called on the beneficiaries of the administration’s Presidential Scholars program to maximize the government’s educational aid by completing their degrees and equipping themselves for future public service.
Addressing a gathering of student-scholars in Makati City, the President underscored that providing quality education remains a top priority and one of the most vital investments the government can make for the Filipino youth.
“A good education is a gift that cannot be taken away from you,” Marcos said.
The scholarship program is funded under the administration’s “Bawat Barangay Makikinabang” initiative, which allocates ₱200,000 in total assistance to every barangay nationwide. Half of the amount, or ₱100,000, is specifically earmarked for educational grants.
Under this setup, each barangay is tasked with selecting five Presidential Scholars, with each student receiving ₱20,000 in financial aid. In Makati City alone, a total of 115 scholars are slated to receive the educational subsidy.
Marcos revealed that he instructed local barangay officials to identify and prioritize students who are on the verge of graduating but face the risk of dropping out due to financial constraints.
“Dapat hanapin nila ‘yung mga malapit nang magtapos pero baka hindi magtapos dahil kulang sa pambayad,” the President explained.
(“They should look for those who are close to graduating but might not finish because they lack the money to pay.”)
With over 42,000 barangays across the Philippines, the Chief Executive noted that the initiative aims to support more than 200,000 scholars throughout the country. He reminded the students that the future of the nation rests on their shoulders, urging them to prepare for their eventual roles as leaders and professionals.
“Kayo na ang magpapatakbo ng lahat — ng mga negosyo, ng gobyerno,” he told the audience.
(“You will be the ones running everything — the businesses, the government.”)
The President challenged the beneficiaries to dedicate themselves to their education and value the opportunity given to them.
“Make the most of it. Study hard, work hard, and this will be something that will help you for the rest of your life,” Marcos added.
Closing his speech, Marcos expressed optimism that the scholars would utilize their education to uplift their respective communities and actively participate in driving the country’s progress.
“Ready na ready na maglingkod, ready na ready na gumawa ng lahat ng kailangan na gawin para pagandahin ang buhay ng bawat Pilipino,” Marcos said.
(“Ready and very willing to serve, ready and very willing to do everything that needs to be done to improve the life of every Filipino.”)