The Lapu-Lapu City Government officially launched its expanded scholarship program for higher education on July 9, 2026, with at least 18 applicants already interviewed at the Local Youth Development Office (Lydo).
Merit-and-need-based evaluation system
City Councilor Annabeth Cuizon, chairperson of the committee on education and a member of the scholarship committee, told SunStar Cebu that applicants were shortlisted based on submitted documents and updated requirements of the Lapu-Lapu City Scholarship Program for Higher Education. “Based on applications submitted, we have shortlisted based on the requirements. So far, we interviewed 18,” Cuizon said in a mix of Cebuano and English.
Applicants are ranked using a merit-and-need-based evaluation system considering four areas: academic standing, face-to-face interview, socio-economic status, and priority degree programs.
Program renamed under amended ordinance
The scholarship program was previously called the Lapu-Lapu City Educational Assistance for Higher Education Program before being renamed through the amendment of Ordinance 17-062-2026. Mayor Ma. Cynthia “Cindi” King-Chan chairs the scholarship committee, while Sangguniang Kabataan Federation President and youth development committee chairperson Orlan Joseph Carungay serves as vice chairperson. The program aims to provide financial assistance to qualified students enrolled in state universities and colleges, helping ease the cost of higher education.
Expanded and simplified requirements
Cuizon said the scholarship requirements were simplified and expanded under the amended ordinance to accommodate more qualified students. The amendments were requested by Mayor Chan to allow more students from Lapu-Lapu City to benefit from the program.
Applicants must submit a completed information sheet with a recent 2x2 photo (white background), the Lydo scholarship application form, academic records such as Form 137, a transcript of records or previous semester grades, a certificate of enrollment, a certified true copy of their course prospectus, and proof that their parents’ or legal guardians’ annual gross income does not exceed P250,000.
Flexibility for income and voter requirements
Those who cannot submit an income tax return may instead provide a Bureau of Internal Revenue Certificate of Tax Exemption, an affidavit of no or low income executed by their parents or legal guardians, or other documents proving financial need. Applicants whose family income exceeds P250,000 may still qualify, subject to further assessment, by submitting a verified case summary from the City Social Welfare and Development Office. Applicants must also submit a Commission on Elections certification showing that they or at least one of their parents is an active voter. All scholarship requirements must be submitted to the Lydo.
