Bacolod city: The city government distributed PHP2.44 million in financial assistance to its college scholars under the Public Employment Service Office (PESO) on Wednesday. The beneficiaries, who are students of various private colleges and universities in the city, each received PHP3,000 for the first semester of the School Year 2025-2026.

According to Philippines News Agency, PESO-Bacolod coordinator Jovelyn Canoy, who supervised the payout, reminded the scholars to show appreciation for the city's assistance by adhering to the scholarship program guidelines and continuing to serve the community. Canoy emphasized that the scholarship is both a privilege and a responsibility.

Starting this school year, each PESO scholar is entitled to receive an allowance of PHP3,000 per semester to supplement the tuition subsidy released by the city government to their respective schools. Mayor Greg Gasataya expressed hope that the financial aid could address the immediate academic and personal needs of the scholars during the Christmas holidays.

Mayor Gasataya stated that by supporting education more, the city chooses a future where no Bacolodnon child's potential is limited by social status or circumstance.