• GILBERT P. BAYORAN
The Negros Occidental provincial government is eyeing the increase of its scholars.
In a press briefing, Lacson said he has instructed Provincial Administrator Atty. Rayfrando Diaz to find ways to increase the number of provincial government scholars during the last three years of his administration.
A total of 515 incoming scholars of the provincial government signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) with Governor Lacson on June 16 in Bacolod City.
The scholars are enrolled in various schools and universities, and belong to different scholarship categories, including PAGKAON Scholarship Grant, District Educational Scholarship, Degree Completion Scholarship, Indigenous Peoples’ Scholarship, Negros Occ. Provincial Medical and Nursing Scholarship – Nursing, NOPMANS Medicine, Provincial Educational Assistance to Capitol Employees, Best of Negros, Scholarship for Children of Non-Returning OFWs, Midwifery Scholarship, Degree Completion Scholarship for OFWs, Scholarship for Children of Solo Parents, and Scholarship for PWDs.
The 515 new scholars form part of the 1,350 scholars of the Provincial Government for the school year 2025–2026.
According to Karen Dinsay, head of the Negros Occidental Scholarship Program (NOSP), the provincial government has allocated about P72.3 million this year to fund scholars under the 11 categories
During the MOA signing rites, which was witnessed by Provincial Administrator Atty. Rayfrando Diaz, Provincial GAD Action Officer Marie June Castro, and OIC Provincial Agriculturist Dina Genzola, Dinsay, along with the parents and guardians of the scholars, Lacson reaffirmed the commitment of the province to bridging gaps and addressing inequalities in education.
Through the Negros Occidental Scholarship Program (NOSP), he said, every qualified Negrense is given the opportunity to pursue education, regardless of their circumstances.
Lacson also encouraged the scholars to be responsible, excel in their studies, uphold integrity, and one day give back to their families, communities, and the province that believes in them.
“Always remember that as you pursue your dreams, you are also setting the path for other young Negrenses who will follow in your footsteps,” the governor added.
Diaz advised the scholars to persevere in their studies, despite the challenges they may face and to envision the future they want for themselves.
He emphasized that scholars are close to the heart of the Provincial Government, which continues to allocate more funds each year to help them reach their goals and secure their desired careers.
He further urged them to be efficient, to acquire knowledge and skills, to uphold the right values and attitude, and to seek guidance from God.
All scholarship recipients underwent screening, exams, and interviews before qualifying. They will receive free tuition and miscellaneous fees, book and uniform allowances, and other forms of assistance.*
