ILOILO – The Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) Region 6 has awarded full college scholarships to 26 new students under its Fisheries Scholarship Program (FSP), signalling a continued push to cultivate future leaders and professionals in the fisheries sector.
The scholars, who passed the FSP National Qualifying Examination in October 2024, were formally welcomed during an orientation and contract signing on June 2.
The new batch — composed of children of fisherfolk, members of Indigenous Peoples (IPs), and outstanding youth — is expected to complement the region’s existing pool of 75 active scholars.
Each recipient will receive a comprehensive financial aid package that includes a P5,000 monthly stipend, P2,000 semestral book allowance, P1,500 one-time uniform allowance, P3,000 relocation allowance, P1,500 graduation support, P3,000 for on-the-job training, and P7,000 for thesis or special projects, covering the full duration of their studies from 2025 to 2029.
“This opportunity comes with great expectations,” said BFAR-6 director Remia Aparri, addressing the scholars. “You are not only securing your own future but also carrying the aspirations of our fishing communities. Be diligent, humble, and grounded in public service.”
Alumni of the program — AC Clavero, Sheena Marie Sangher, Rizza Mae Guyapale, and Rheane Joy Senangote — shared personal success stories during the orientation, highlighting how the scholarship transformed their lives and helped them advance in the fisheries field.
The 26 new scholars include 20 students under the Fisherfolk Children Educational Grant (FCEG), three under the FSP for Indigenous Cultural Communities/Indigenous Peoples (FSP-ICCs/IPs), and others under the Fisheries Industry Leaders Grant (FILG).
This marks the 16th batch for FCEG, the 29th for FILG, and the 5th for the IP-focused scholarship program.
The Fisheries Scholarship Program is a flagship human resource intervention of DA-BFAR, aiming to uplift the fisheries industry by investing in the education of its future stewards./PN
