The journey towards becoming confident, globally-minded leaders officially started for fifty young learners in Davao City on January 8, 2026. Selected from the Pablo M. Piatos Hub and Malabog Hub, the scholars gathered at the Pablo M. Piatos Sr. Integrated School for the opening of the prestigious English Access Micro-scholarship Program.
A Gateway to Global Opportunities
This transformative, two-year initiative is designed to do much more than just teach English. Funded by the United States Department of State through the Regional English Language Office (RELO) of the US Embassy in Manila, and implemented in partnership with the Department of Education–Davao City Division and the Davao City Public Schools District Supervisors Association, the program aims to holistically develop the youth.
In his opening address, Schools Division Superintendent Reynante A. Solitario highlighted the program's profound impact. He framed it not merely as language instruction but as a critical gateway that opens doors, widens horizons, and builds the confidence of academically promising learners from underserved communities.
Building Future Leaders, Strengthening Ties
Regional English Language Officer Jeffrey Mcilvenna, representing the United States Embassy, shared the deeper vision behind the scholarship. He emphasized the strong US-Philippines partnership in nurturing the next generation of leaders, stating that the scholars' success is pivotal for a strong future for both nations.
Mcilvenna also stressed the indispensable role of family and community support, noting that high-achieving students are always backed by a strong foundation at home. He described the Access Program as a "leadership laboratory" where participants will cultivate critical thinking, digital literacy, and evidence-based reasoning, alongside their English skills.
A Collective Commitment to Success
Assistant SDS Dr. Rebecca C. Sagot expressed gratitude for the successful collaboration between the US Embassy, DepEd, school administrators, and teachers. She commended the scholars for their dedication and encouraged them to become role models by sharing their newfound knowledge with classmates.
Dr. Sagot shared an inspiring vision for the scholars' futures, expressing hope that they would not only complete the two-year program but also finish high school, graduate from college, secure better jobs, and always cherish the learning experience that started their journey.
The program, which includes Saturday classes, requires significant discipline and commitment from the scholars. However, the reward promises to be immense: a set of skills in communication and leadership that will empower them to contribute meaningfully to their schools and communities long after the program concludes.
