ILOILO – Twenty-three scholars with disabilities proved that perseverance and determination know no bounds as they marched as graduates under the Iloilo Provincial Government’s Persons with Disability (PWD) Scholarship Program this year, with one earning Magna Cum Laude honors and six others graduating Cum Laude.
The recognition ceremony, held at the Capitol lobby, was led by the Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office (PSWDO) in partnership with the provincial government. It highlighted not only academic excellence but also the province’s push for inclusivity through education.
“Your graduation from college will open doors of opportunities that will change your life and also that of your family,” Provincial Administrator Raul Banias said, representing Gov. Arthur Defensor Jr. during the event.
Banias underscored that the scholarship program is part of Governor Defensor’s MoRProGRes (Movement for a Robust, Progressive, Globally-competitive and Resilient) Iloilo agenda, which seeks to ensure that development opportunities extend to all, including persons with disabilities.
He further emphasized that beyond the PWD program, the province also funds the Iskolar sang Iloilo Program (ISIP) for financially challenged students, scholarships for Indigenous Peoples, and a forthcoming Educational Reintegration Program to assist former rebels and their children.
“This program not only supports PWD graduates but also reflects the commitment of the local government to create equitable opportunities for all members of society,” Banias said.
The event drew the presence of Vice Governor Nathalie Ann Debuque, Board Member Rolex Suplico, PWD Provincial Federation president Ana Liza Hudierez, PDAO designate Christine Roa, and PSWDO officer-in-charge Marice Andrea Bedonia, signifying broad support for the milestone.
Magna Cum Laude CJ Marie Cadenas graduated from West Visayas State & University (WVSU).
The Cum Laude graduates were: JV Carumba from Northern Iloilo State University (NISU Estancia), John Rose Arnaez (NISU Ajuy), Angel Marie Colago from Iloilo State University of Fishery Sciences and Technology – San Enrique, Jireh Fernandez (NISU Ajuy), CJ Funa (WVSU Pototan), and Anelyn Cabaya from Iloilo Science and Technology University.
Other graduates include Myl John Demayo, Sainel Arano, Jasmin Devera, Shara Joy Palma, Decerie Frigillano, Cyra Hortilano, Carol Jane Napico, Analie Viray, Hersey Benagua, Estrelle Rose Astorga, Jeferson Dela Peña, Trishia Escarinas, Cheaseter John Gegudas, Jeanet Balugal, Cherrylyn Gallardo, and Justin Pol Aguillon.
The program closed with a reminder that the triumph of the graduates is not theirs alone but a reflection of a community and a government committed to breaking barriers for persons with disabilities./PN
