Nabunturan: President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Tuesday spearheaded the distribution of approximately PHP113 million in financial aid to 565 villages across three provinces in the Davao Region under the Socio-Civic Projects Fund. The initiative was launched as part of the 'Bawat Bayan Makikinabang' program in Nabunturan, Davao de Oro, with the aim of ensuring that government assistance reaches grassroots communities while empowering local officials to address the urgent needs of their constituents.

According to Philippines News Agency, the financial aid benefitted 237 villages in Davao de Oro, 223 in Davao del Norte, and 105 in Davao Occidental. Each village received PHP200,000, with half of the funds allocated to the Bagong Pilipinas Presidential Scholars Program and the remainder directed toward priority community development projects identified by local officials. The scholarship initiative provides PHP20,000 in financial aid to students nearing graduation, helping them complete their education.

President Marcos emphasized the importance of strong collaboration between national and local government units to ensure the effective delivery of public services and development programs. He highlighted that effective cooperation is essential for communities to benefit from government initiatives. Marcos also reassured local governments of ongoing national support and expressed his commitment to seek additional funding from Congress to expand the program if it proves successful.

Marcos encouraged local officials and student beneficiaries to maximize the support provided, urging them to use the funds wisely and study diligently. He reiterated his administration's readiness to listen to local concerns and work collaboratively to address them, underscoring the government's role as a partner rather than a director in local governance.