The U.S. Embassy in the Philippines has officially launched three new groups of scholars under its prestigious English Access Program Scholarship, extending a significant educational opportunity to 150 high-achieving public school students across the regions of Davao City, Bohol, and Bataan.
Empowering Youth Through Language and Leadership
This intensive, two-year after-school initiative is funded by the U.S. Department of State's Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs. It targets talented students aged 13 to 15 from public schools, selected through a competitive merit-based process. The program goes beyond basic English lessons, aiming to build advanced proficiency while simultaneously strengthening digital literacy, critical thinking, and leadership capabilities.
The program is a collaborative effort between the U.S. Embassy's Regional English Language Office (RELO), the Philippine Department of Education, and local public schools. U.S. Embassy Regional English Language Officer Jeff McIlvenna emphasized the strategic goal, stating that focusing on advanced literacy and professional communication prepares these students for the global workforce. He highlighted that their success represents a direct investment in the shared future and prosperity of both the United States and the Philippines.
Launch Events Across Three Key Locations
The rollout of the 2026 cohorts began on January 8 at the Pablo M. Piatos Sr. Integrated School in Bunawan, Davao City. The first cohort welcomed 50 exceptional students from various schools in the area. Department of Education Davao City Assistant Superintendent Rebecca Sagot praised the program's role in boosting English proficiency, especially for learners from far-flung schools, by building confidence and opening wider academic and career paths.
The second group of 50 scholars in Bohol commenced their journey on January 10 at Lourdes National High School in Panglao. The third and final cohort for this launch phase, also comprising 50 students, is scheduled to start on January 17 at the City of Balanga National High School in Balanga City, Bataan.
A Legacy of Global and Local Impact
Since its global inception in 2004, the English Access Program has benefited over 200,000 students in more than 85 countries. In the Philippines alone, the program has produced nearly 1,500 alumni. Educators involved also gain from the program, joining a global network of Access teachers to enhance their instructional methods through American English teaching excellence.
Participants will engage in cultural enrichment activities, with a special focus on the landmark year of 2026, which marks both the 250th anniversary of American independence and the 80th anniversary of U.S.-Philippine diplomatic relations. This initiative underscores a continued commitment to educational partnership and mutual growth between the two nations.
