Mayor Greg Gasataya pledged to provide an allowance to 664 scholars under the Public Employment Services Office (PESO) during the Scholars’ Assembly and Orientation held at the Bacolod City Government Center on Thursday, August 21.
“We assure you that within this first semester, we will be able to provide an allowance for the 664 students,” he said.
The new grantees will receive a P10,000–P12,000 subsidy per semester, a component of the city government’s ongoing commitment to supporting education and assisting scholars with their living and academic expenses, a press release from the Bacolod City Communications Office said.
“The support is not just for tuition; the greatest need of most students is how to survive day-to-day, expenses,” the mayor said.
“Education is the right of every Filipino. Education is your right; it is not a privilege, although sometimes we still need finances to graduate,” he said.
“We are here, striving to improve the services and assistance that the government provides. Do not waste the opportunity that is being given to you,” the mayor urged, encouraging scholars to maximize the program’s benefits.
PESO Head Jovelyn Canoy also addressed the attendees, underscoring the importance of community involvement among scholars.
“Under the ordinance, our city scholars are required to volunteer in community activities. PESO Bacolod is very pleased that our scholars are actively involved in the community initiatives of our local government,” Canoy said.
“Joining community service helps you develop your abilities, communication, and leadership skills, the very qualities employers look for. This is an important part of your preparation for future job hunting,” she added.*