BACOLOD City — A total of 1,069 scholars of Bacolod City College (BCC) each received P7,500 in educational assistance on February 20 during a payout ceremony at the Bacolod City Government Center.
The beneficiaries received the grant as financial assistance for the first semester, amounting to nearly P8 million in total support directly benefiting students and their families.
Many of the scholars come from low-income households and continue to persevere despite financial hardships. Some take on part-time jobs to help support their families, while others will become the first in their households to earn a college degree.
Under the leadership of Mayor Greg Gasataya, the payout marks a significant step toward strengthening access to quality education in the city.
The assistance was implemented in partnership with the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) through the Tulong Dunong Program.
Gasataya emphasized the city government’s continued commitment to ensuring that no young Bacolodnon is hindered from achieving their dreams due to financial limitations. He stressed that the local government remains firm in its advocacy of making higher education more accessible to all.
Data from CHED show that more than 40 percent of college students in the Philippines come from low-income households, with many facing financial constraints that could lead to dropping out. Scholarship assistance programs remain among the most effective strategies in helping students continue their studies and reduce dropout rates.
The city government highlighted the program’s key benefits, including sustained education, investment in Bacolod’s future, and renewed hope for the youth.
Officials underscored that progress begins with education, and the scholars supported today will serve as the foundation of a more progressive and empowered Bacolod tomorrow./PN
