Lucena city: President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Tuesday spearheaded the distribution of rice assistance to over 52,000 beneficiaries in Lucena City, alongside providing educational support to 165 presidential scholars under the government's expanded assistance initiatives. During the Bawat Bayan Makikinabang event, 52,439 beneficiaries from vulnerable sectors, including indigent families and senior citizens, received 10 kg of rice through the Bagong Pilipinas Rice Program.
According to Philippines News Agency, the recipients will continue to receive rice bi-monthly, as confirmed by Palace Press Officer Claire Castro during a press briefing. Castro stated that the initiative not only aids vulnerable communities but also benefits Filipino farmers, as the rice distributed is sourced from local producers. She highlighted the program's role in establishing a direct connection between farmers and communities in need.
While in Lucena City, Marcos also engaged with 165 presidential scholars, each granted PHP20,000 in educational assistance under the Socio-Civic Projects Fund. In his address, Marcos encouraged the scholars to prioritize their education, emphasizing the lifelong value of knowledge and skills. He urged them to leverage their education to contribute to their families, communities, and the nation, whether through government service, business, or other professional avenues.
The scholarship program is designed to support deserving students who face financial challenges that may hinder their educational pursuits. Each barangay receives PHP200,000, with half allocated to five presidential scholars, each receiving PHP20,000 in educational support. The remaining funds are available for priority community projects by village officials.
Marcos noted the program's potential to benefit over 200,000 students nationwide annually, with five scholars chosen from each of the 42,000-plus villages. He also mentioned that the government might consider increasing the program's funding in future budgets if evaluations yield favorable outcomes.
