Negros Occidental Gov. Eugenio Jose Lacson on Tuesday, June 17, said that he is aiming to increase the number of provincial government scholars in the last three years of his administration.
A total of 515 incoming scholars of the provincial government signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) with Lacson during rites held at L’Fisher Hotel in Bacolod City on Monday.
The scholars are enrolled in various schools and universities.
They belong to different scholarship categories, including PAGKAON Scholarship Grant, District Educational Scholarship, Degree Completion Scholarship, Indigenous Peoples’ Scholarship, Negros Occ. Provincial Medical and Nursing Scholarship – Nursing, NOPMANS Medicine, Provincial Educational Assistance to Capitol Employees, Best of Negros, Scholarship for Children of Non-Returning OFWs, Midwifery Scholarship, Degree Completion Scholarship for OFWs, Scholarship for Children of Solo Parents, and Scholarship for PWDs.
These incoming scholars will be part of the 1,350 total scholars of the Provincial Government for the school year 2025–2026.
Lacson said he was happy that more scholars were enrolling in agriculture courses.
The governor, in his speech, reaffirmed the province’s commitment to bridging gaps and addressing inequalities in education.
Through the Negros Occidental Scholarship Program (NOSP), he said, every qualified Negrense is given the opportunity to pursue education, regardless of their circumstances.
He encouraged the scholars to be responsible, excel in their studies, uphold integrity, and one day give back to their families, communities, and the province that believes in them.
“Always remember that as you pursue your dreams, you are also setting the path for other young Negrenses who will follow in your footsteps,” the governor said.
The MOA signing was witnessed by Provincial Administrator Rayfrando Diaz, Provincial GAD Action Officer Marie June Castro, and OIC Provincial Agriculturist Dr. Dina Genzola, as well as the scholars’ parents and guardians.
Diaz advised the scholars to persevere in their studies despite the challenges they may face and to envision the future they want for themselves.
He emphasized that scholars are close to the heart of the Provincial Government, which continues to allocate more funds each year to help them reach their goals and secure their desired careers.
Diaz urged them to be efficient, to acquire knowledge and skills, to uphold the right values and attitude, and to seek guidance from God.
The MOA signing was facilitated by the NOSP headed by Karen Dinsay.
All scholarship recipients underwent screening, exams, and interviews before qualifying. They will receive free tuition and miscellaneous fees, book and uniform allowances, and other forms of assistance, Dinsay said.*