TUBOD, Lanao del Norte — In a strong show of support for students from low-income families, the Provincial Government of Lanao del Norte, led by Governor Imelda “Angging” Quibranza Dimaporo, distributed ₱3,500 in cash assistance to 2,000 high school students across 17 public schools through its flagship initiative, Gikan sa Probinsya Para sa Masa Educational Assistance Program.
The financial assistance, coursed through the Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office (PSWDO), aims to help students prepare for the opening of classes by covering expenses for school and PE uniforms, shoes, and essential supplies. The program prioritizes students who are not covered by the national government’s Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps), ensuring that marginalized learners outside the national aid system are not left behind.
Governor Dimaporo emphasized the importance of reaching out to those who are often excluded from social safety nets, saying the initiative forms part of the provincial government’s commitment to inclusive education and poverty reduction.
Each student beneficiary underwent thorough screening and assessment by the PSWDO to ensure the funds were granted to those who genuinely needed it.
During the distribution ceremony, Sangguniang Panlalawigan Member Grecille Matalines, who chairs the Committee on Social Services, encouraged students to use the funds wisely.
“Naghinaot mi nga kaning kadawat ninyo nga financial assistance, moabot ni sa saktong dapatan gyud ani,” Matalines told the students and their families.
Gratitude poured in from the beneficiaries. A student from Diego H. Patigayon National High School shared how the assistance would ease the burden on their family:
“Makatabang jud siya sa amoa, especially sa mga students nga need ani. Hoping nga sa future, naay more students nga matabangan pa.”
The Gikan sa Probinsya Para sa Masa program reflects Lanao del Norte’s continuing efforts to promote accessible and equitable education, demonstrating how localized programs can effectively supplement national initiatives in addressing poverty and promoting youth development.