Northern samar: The Northern Samar provincial government announced the acceptance of the medical scholarship applications of 13 students. In a statement, the provincial government revealed that these students have been assessed to determine their eligibility for the scholarship program.

According to Philippines News Agency, the program was designed to increase the number of doctors serving in public hospitals in Northern Samar, enhancing healthcare service delivery in the region. The scholarship supports students annually by covering tuition, stipend, and other allowances. The provincial medical scholarship program (MSP) board conducted interviews with the applicants on August 12 as the final step in the assessment process. The board will recommend successful candidates to Governor Harris Ongchuan based on academic performance, financial need, and behavioral competency.

Dr. Ma. Aurora Vicencio, chair of the provincial MSP Board, stated that the program has produced five doctors with a 100 percent passing rate in the licensure examination. Currently, 22 medical scholars are enrolled in various year levels, and five are set to take the board exam by the end of the year. Vicencio expressed gratitude for the program's role in sustaining healthcare resources in government hospitals within the province.

Successful applicants will proceed to the signing of the contract and return service agreement, finalizing their scholarship awards. The scholars receive grants covering tuition and school fees up to PHP100,000, with an additional PHP70,000 for stipend, book, and uniform allowance per semester. The provincial government will also cover internship and review fees for the physician licensure examination up to PHP60,000. The program, initiated last year, started with eight medical students as its first beneficiaries.