The Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) has committed PHP60 million to fund a scholarship program for 2,000 students from low-income families in Bulacan, with the first tranche of PHP10 million already turned over to the provincial government on Monday.
First Tranche Released
PAGCOR Chairperson and Chief Executive Officer Alejandro Tengco handed over a PHP10-million check to Bulacan Governor Daniel Fernando and Vice Governor Alexis Castro at the Bulacan Capitol Gymnasium in Malolos City. The fund supports the Ayudang Hatid ay Tagumpay (AHT) Scholarship Program, which aims to expand access to higher education and technical-vocational training for deserving Bulakenyo students.
Allocation Breakdown
Of the PHP60 million total allocation, PHP40 million will fund scholarships for 1,000 incoming college freshmen enrolled in four-year degree programs, while PHP20 million will support 1,000 students pursuing technical-vocational education.
Investing in Youth
“Sa pag-turn over natin ng unang tranche ng pondo ngayong araw, hindi lamang tayo nagbibigay ng tulong sa sektor ng edukasyon. Namumuhunan din tayo sa kakayahan, pangarap, at potensiyal ng ating mga kabataang magiging katuwang natin sa pagbuo ng mas maunlad na Bulacan at mas matatag na bansang Pilipinas (As we turn over the first tranche of funds today, we are not merely providing assistance to the education sector. We are also investing in the capabilities, dreams, and potential of our youth, our partners in building a more prosperous Bulacan and a stronger Philippines),” Tengco said.
Governor's Response
Bulacan Governor Daniel Fernando expressed gratitude for the assistance, which he said would enable more students to pursue their studies despite financial constraints. “We thank PAGCOR for its continued support in the education of the Bulakenyo youth. This scholarship program will help expand access to quality education and create opportunities for deserving students across the province,” Fernando said.
Broader Initiative
The scholarship program is part of the Bawat Buhay Mahalaga Caravan, which brings government services and assistance closer to local communities, including initiatives that promote greater access to education. Tengco also announced that PAGCOR will fund the construction of 10 three-story school buildings in Bulacan and the establishment of the Bulacan Sports Academy for aspiring young athletes.
