The Davao City Sports Development Division of the City Mayor's Office (SDD-CMO) will launch its athletic scholarship program in the second semester of 2026, with information campaigns scheduled to begin in September, an official announced on Thursday, July 2.
Program Details Announced at DSA Forum
Speaking at the weekly Davao Sportswriters Association (DSA) Forum at The Annex of SM City Davao, SDD-CMO staff Justine Marie Adovo confirmed that the program aims to support qualified student-athletes from junior high school through college in pursuing their education while continuing their athletic careers.
"We're planning for the athletic scholarship program under the City Mayor's Office through the Sports Development Division to be approved by the second semester. By September, we'll begin information dissemination," Adovo said.
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify, applicants must be native-born Davao City residents who have lived in the city for at least three years. They must submit an application form, certificate of residency, medical certificate, certificate of good moral character, certificate of enrollment, PSA birth certificate, Certificate of Indigency or proof of eligibility from the City Social Welfare and Development Office (CSWDO), endorsement from their National Sports Association (NSA) or sports club, latest transcript of records or report card, and proof of participation in competitions.
Adovo emphasized that applicants must have competed at the regional, national, or international level for at least two years. "They really need to have competed in regional, national, and even international competitions for two years," she said, adding that athletes who do not meet the competition requirement will not qualify.
Scholarship Grants and Academic Standards
Scholarship grants will vary depending on the school chosen by the athlete. Recipients must maintain academic standards, including no grade below 80 for junior and senior high school students, while college scholars must have no incomplete grades. Adovo clarified that the scholarship is exclusively for student-athletes. "Only athletes," she said when asked whether non-athletes could apply.
Implementation and Updates
Adovo noted that the SDD's legal team is finalizing the implementing guidelines. She encouraged interested athletes and their families to monitor the Davao City Sports Development Division's Facebook page for announcements and application updates. Meanwhile, the city government of Davao also offers college scholarships for qualified students through the Educational Benefit System Unit.
