BACOLOD City — In a move aimed at easing the financial burden on families, the Bacolod City government will fully subsidize graduation expenses for students of Bacolod City College (BCC), starting with the graduating batch of 2026.
City Administrator Atty. Mark Steven Mayo said it will be the first time in the college’s history that graduating students will no longer pay any graduation fees.
The initiative was finalized following a series of meetings between Mayor Greg Gasataya, the college administration, and student representatives amid ongoing economic challenges and the energy crisis.
“Subong nga tion, may ara kita sang energy crisis kag mabudlay nga sitwasyon sa ekonomiya. Daku ini nga bulig sa aton mga ginikanan kag estudyante,” Mayo said, emphasizing the program’s importance in providing relief to families.
Under the directive of Mayor Greg Gasataya, the city will cover all graduation-related expenses for approximately 900 students completing both two-year and four-year programs this year.
The subsidy includes costs for the venue, toga rental, diplomas, and other related fees.
Previously, graduating students spent an average of more than P2,000 each to participate in commencement exercises. This amount included around P1,475 for diploma processing, medals, and recollection activities, as well as toga rental fees ranging from P250 to P450, depending on the program.
Based on initial projections, the city government is expected to allocate between P1 million and P2 million for the initiative, which is seen to provide significant financial relief to households already coping with economic pressures.
Mayo described the program as a landmark initiative for BCC, ensuring that no graduating student will be required to pay to take part in the graduation ceremony.
The move underscores the city government’s commitment to accessible education and sustained support for students striving to complete their degrees, particularly during challenging economic times./PN
