The Educational Benefit System Unit (EBSU) of the City Government of Davao is calling on aspiring scholars to prepare their requirements as it will begin accepting applications in April for the upcoming school year 2025-2026.
EBSU Head Emilio Domingo Jr. announced that Mayor Sebastian “Baste” Duterte has expanded the city’s scholarship program by adding 300 slots to the already approved budget, bringing the total available slots to 500.
Expanded Scholarship Opportunities The new slots will be allocated across different scholarship programs:
- 100 slots for the Financial Assistance Program for Indigenous Peoples (IPs)
- 100 slots for the Technical and Vocational Skills Training Program
- 100 slots for Persons with Disabilities (PWDs)
This expansion aims to provide more opportunities for students from marginalized and special needs groups to access quality education.
EBSU Scholarship Programs The EBSU offers multiple scholarship programs, including:
- Scholarship on Tertiary Education Program – Financial Assistance (STEP-FA)
- Special Educational Assistance Program (SEAP)
- Financial Assistance Program for Lumad Students
- Technical and Vocational Skills Training Program
- Educational Assistance for Persons with Disabilities or Special Needs
- Law and Medical Education Program
Under the STEP-FA program, scholars are categorized into three groups based on academic performance:
- Category A: P25,000 per semester (P50,000 annually) for students with a minimum average of 93
- Category B: P20,000 per semester (P40,000 annually) for students with an average of 90–92
- Category C: P7,500 per semester (P15,000 annually) for students with an average of 80–89
Meanwhile, students in the Technical and Vocational Skills Training Program will receive P15,000 annually, while children with special needs under the Educational Assistance Program will be granted P10,000 per year.
Application Requirements Applicants must submit the following documents:
- Certificate of Residency
- Certificate of Indigency or Eligibility issued by the City Social Welfare and Development Office (CSWDO)
- Income Tax Return (ITR) or Certificate of Tax Exemption of both parents
- Certificate of Good Moral Character
Additional requirements:
- Incoming freshmen: Senior high school grades
- College students: Grades from the last two semesters
- Law and Medical Education Program applicants: Minimum grade average of 85, with no subject grade below 75
- Lumad students: National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP) certificate, in addition to the standard requirements
How to Apply Interested applicants are encouraged to check the City Government of Davao website and the EBSU-STEP Facebook Page (https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100067947439186) for updates and application details.
With the expanded scholarship program, the Davao City Government continues to support students in pursuing higher education and vocational training, ensuring inclusive opportunities for all.
