Manila: President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. led the distribution of PHP102.2 million in aid from the Socio-Civic Projects Fund (SCPF) to 511 villages in Tarlac. This initiative, which took place at the Tarlac City Civic Center, aims to support various local projects and presidential scholars.

According to Philippines News Agency, the financial aid is structured to provide each village with PHP200,000. Out of this amount, PHP100,000 is earmarked for development and safety projects, while the other PHP100,000 is designated to support five presidential scholars per village. Each scholar will receive PHP20,000 to help with educational expenses.

During his interaction with the scholars, President Marcos emphasized the importance of education, stating it is the administration's top priority and a vital investment for the country's future. He encouraged the scholars to excel in their studies and use their education to serve their communities and contribute to nation-building.

President Marcos expressed his trust in village officials to effectively manage the remaining SCPF funds, highlighting their role in identifying and addressing community needs. He noted that the government has already distributed PHP4.69 billion to over 23,000 villages across the country as of July 2.

In addition to the SCPF aid, President Marcos also distributed 10-kilogram bags of rice to 3,077 beneficiaries in Tarlac. This rice assistance is funded through the Local Government Support Fund (LGSF), designed to enhance service delivery by local government units (LGUs).

President Marcos reported that approximately 1,276 LGUs have received assistance under the LGSF through the Bawat Bayan Makikinabang initiative. He assured that the program will continue nationwide to reach all communities and mentioned that some LGUs have already received a second round of support. The food assistance will be provided every two months to ensure vulnerable families have sufficient resources.

"Rest assured that your government stands behind you and will be with you in all your needs," President Marcos affirmed to the beneficiaries.