Mandaue scholars receive first wave of aid

CEBU, Philippines — A total of 161 new city scholars in Mandaue City have received their first tranche of financial assistance, P17,000 each, under the city government's scholarship program.

The beneficiaries, enrolled in various schools in Cebu, will receive a total of P34,000 annually, or P17,000 per semester.

The financial assistance is intended to help students cover their educational expenses and other school-related needs as they pursue their studies.

The city government has also shifted to a direct cash distribution system to simplify the release of scholarship funds and address delays previously encountered under the reimbursement process.

Under the previous arrangement, scholars had to submit various receipts and supporting documents to claim their assistance, which could prolong the release of funds.

With the direct distribution, the city aims to make the process more convenient and ensure that qualified students receive their financial assistance without having to wait for reimbursement.

During the turnover ceremony, Councilor Atty. Joel Seno, chairman of the City Council's committee on education, assured the scholars of the local government's continued support.

“Kami nga naa sa Mandaue City Government, rest assured that we will not be in front of you; we have your back, naa mi sa inyong likuran,” Seno said.

Mayor Thadeo “Jonkie” Ouano, meanwhile, recognized the efforts of city councilors in the release of scholarship assistance, particularly in addressing concerns involving reimbursements.

“Usa ka importante ug prayoridad sa City of Mandaue ang edukasyon,” Ouano said.

Mayor Ouano, together with his sister, Mandaue City Lone District Rep. Emmarie “Lolypop” Ouano-Dizon, led the distribution.

The turnover ceremony was held at the Barangay Ibabao-Estancia gymnasium on November 9, with scholars coming from different barangays in the city.

Also present were councilors Ben Basiga, Kevin Cabahug, Eugene Andaya, Jennifer Del Mar, and Anjong Ouano-Icalina, along with Ibabao-Estancia Barangay Captain Tingy Echavez.