PBBM Meets Presidential Scholars in Makati | Photo via PCO
MAKATI CITY — President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. met with newly awarded Presidential Scholars on Monday as part of his administration’s Bawat Barangay Makikinabang initiative, a nationwide program designed to provide financial assistance and academic support to deserving students from every barangay.
The gathering, held at the Makati Coliseum in Barangay Singkamas, brought together scholars from Metro Manila and recent awardees from Visayas and Mindanao. Marcos said the initiative reflects his administration’s commitment to “ensuring that no Filipino youth is left behind because of poverty.”
What the program provides
Under the Bawat Barangay Makikinabang framework, each barangay receives an allocation that funds one-time educational assistance of ₱20,000 per scholar, along with access to mentoring programs and government‑supported career pathways. The Presidential Scholarship component is administered in coordination with local governments and the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD).
According to the Presidential Communications Office, scholars undergo vetting based on academic standing, community involvement, and household income, with final validation conducted by barangay councils and regional DSWD offices.
Marcos: ‘You carry the hopes of your communities’
In his remarks, Marcos told the scholars that their achievements “represent the aspirations of the barangays that raised them.”
“You carry the hopes of your communities. This scholarship is not just financial aid — it is an investment in your potential to uplift others,” he said.
He urged them to “use this opportunity to build a future that honors the sacrifices of your families,” adding:
“Education remains the most powerful tool for national transformation. We are here to make sure you have that tool in your hands.”
Recent awardees from across the country
The Makati ceremony follows similar awarding events in Tacloban City, where 690 scholars received assistance earlier this month, and in General Santos City, where more than 400 students were recognized under the same initiative. Local officials in both cities described the program as “timely” and “life‑changing,” particularly for students from low‑income households.
In Cebu, the provincial government reported that barangay‑endorsed scholars from Carcar, Liloan, and Danao were among the latest batch vetted for the national program.
Scholars express gratitude, relief
Several recipients at the Makati event said the assistance would significantly ease the financial burden on their families. One scholar from Barangay Pembo, 19‑year‑old engineering student Alyssa Santos, said the grant would allow her to continue her studies without taking on part‑time work.
“This is a huge help. My parents were worried about tuition and transportation. Now I can focus on my classes,” Santos told reporters.
Another awardee from Quezon Province said the program “gave students like me a chance to dream bigger.”
Looking ahead
Marcos said the administration aims to expand the program so that “every barangay in the country will have at least one scholar supported by the national government.” He added that the initiative is part of a broader effort to strengthen human capital development.
“Our goal is simple: every Filipino child should have the opportunity to succeed,” Marcos said.
The Presidential Scholars are expected to participate in follow‑up leadership workshops and community service activities throughout the year.
