Starting the 2024-2025 school year, indigent college and graduate students from Antique will receive a higher educational allowance, amounting to PHP10,000 per semester. This increase from the previous PHP6,000 aims to support students as they face rising educational and living expenses. The decision was finalized by the Antique Provincial Board during their regular session on October 14, 2024, marking a significant step to help ease the financial burdens of education for local students.
The resolution to increase the allowance was sponsored by Board Member Pio Jessielito Sumande Sr. and authored by Vice Governor Edgar Denosta. Sumande emphasized that the initial allowance of PHP6,000 was no longer sufficient, given the increasing cost of education. He noted that students need financial support not only for tuition and living expenses but also for essentials like gadgets, which are now critical for completing assignments and conducting research.
Addressing the Growing Costs of Education
As the cost of education continues to rise, many students from indigent families struggle to keep up with expenses. The increased allowance from PHP6,000 to PHP10,000 is expected to alleviate some of the financial strain these students experience. “The previous amount was no longer enough to address the growing needs of students, especially with the rising costs of school supplies, transportation, and digital devices,” said Sumande during an interview. He also highlighted the importance of providing students with the tools necessary for their academic success, such as laptops and internet access, which have become essential for modern learning.
The approved resolution will now be forwarded to the Office of Antique Governor Rhodora Cadiao and the provincial finance committee, which includes the offices of the provincial treasurer, budget, and accounting, for proper allocation of funds. According to Sumande, the provincial government has already earmarked PHP160 million in the approved Supplemental Budget Nos. 1 and 2 to fund the educational assistance program.
A Long-Term Investment in the Youth
The Antique Provincial Youth Development Office, which oversees the educational assistance program, will soon release the schedule for applications, allowing eligible students to apply for the new financial aid. This initiative aligns with the provincial government’s commitment to supporting education and ensuring that students from indigent families have the opportunity to pursue higher education without being burdened by financial challenges.
Last year, around 20,000 students from Antique applied for educational assistance. With the increased financial aid, the provincial government hopes to support more students in the coming school year and beyond, giving them better opportunities to succeed academically and ultimately contribute to the development of the province.
Educational Assistance: A Lifeline for Indigent Students
The increase in educational assistance comes at a crucial time as many families in Antique, particularly those from Indigenous Peoples (IP) and indigent communities, continue to face economic difficulties. By raising the financial support per semester, the provincial government is not only addressing the immediate needs of students but also investing in the long-term future of the province. Education is viewed as a key driver of social and economic development, and ensuring access to quality education for all students is seen as essential for progress.
Sumande mentioned that consultations were held with Governor Cadiao before the resolution was approved, indicating strong support from the provincial leadership for this initiative. With the rising costs of living, especially for those attending higher education institutions, this financial assistance will help alleviate some of the burdens faced by students and their families.
Supporting a Brighter Future for Antique’s Youth
For many students in Antique, particularly those from marginalized sectors, educational assistance is not just a grant but a lifeline. It opens doors to opportunities that would otherwise be out of reach due to financial constraints. By increasing the allowance, the provincial government is sending a clear message about the importance of education in shaping the future of Antique.
The increased educational assistance will allow students to focus more on their studies, reduce the pressure to take on part-time jobs, and provide them with the resources they need to succeed academically. With more financial support, students from Antique can look forward to a better, brighter future.
Video: CHED Offers Help to Poor Students
If accessing the increased educational assistance in Antique for indigent students is not an option for you, then check out this video from ABS CBN News for educational support options from Commission on Higher Education (CHED):