Manila: The provincial government of Dinagat Islands: handed over the funding for its 729 scholars at the Don Jose Ecleo Memorial College (DJEMC) on Wednesday. The fund, totaling PHP13.1 million, was turned over by lawyer Niel Edward Demerey, representing Governor Nilo Demerey Jr., to Dr. Eleno Buray Jr., DJEMC vice president for operations. The funding is intended for the continued schooling of the scholars for School Year 2025-2026. According to Philippines News Agency, when reached for his comments on Thursday, Governor Demerey said the province's scholarship program is an opportunity for students to pursue college degrees without the financial burden that often forces them to drop out or delay schooling. He added that with the funding, scholars can now focus on their studies without interruptions due to unpaid tuition or lack of resources. 'The scholarship program nurtures a generation of educated youth in Dinagat Islands who can become future leaders, professionals, and change-makers in the island prov ince,' he said. In a separate interview, Wilma, 39, a mother of three, was thankful for the continuing scholarship program of the provincial government. 'My daughter, a criminology student, is among the recipients of this scholarship program of the province,' Wilma, who requested anonymity, said in the local dialect. She added that the program is a big help to families who are struggling due to the high cost of college education.