Thirty aspiring doctors from Taguig have been selected as the first batch of beneficiaries of the Investing in the Value of Education through Stewardship for Taguigeños (INVEST) Scholarship Program for Medicine, a full medical scholarship initiative by the city government.
Awarding Ceremony Led by Mayor Lani Cayetano
Taguig City Mayor Lani Cayetano led the awarding ceremony for the scholars, named Batch Tanglaw, marking the first group to receive full scholarships for medical studies. The program covers tuition and miscellaneous fees, plus a monthly allowance of ₱15,000 while the scholars are in medical school.
Scholars Enrolled in Top Medical Schools
The scholars were admitted to the top 10 medical schools in the country, with the scholarship value reaching up to ₱590,000 per year depending on the institution. According to Mayor Cayetano, the program aims to produce more doctors who will serve the Taguig community in the future.
Selection Process and Impact
The 30 scholars were chosen from 127 applicants after a rigorous evaluation based on academic performance, financial need, and willingness to serve the public. To date, the city has assisted over 130,000 scholars in various colleges and universities, with more than 6,000 becoming licensed professionals, including 88 physicians.
Stories of Inspiration
Among the first scholars are Joy Charity Heart Santos of Lower Bicutan and Bernadette Jerusalem of Bagumbayan. They shared that their parents' illnesses strengthened their resolve to become doctors and serve others. The program is seen as a significant step in addressing the need for healthcare professionals in the city.
