STA. ANA -- Mayor Rommel Concepcion led Monday the distribution of P500,000 educational assistance to indigent students of the town in simple ceremonies in front of the municipal hall here attended by recipients and their parents.

Concepcion reported that the municipal government has already given millions in cash assistance since the start of his term.

Some 320 college and 180 high school students received P2,000 and P1,000 each in cash assistance, respectively. The students come from various barangays of the town from the poorest residents as identified by the barangay officials and the municipal social welfare office.

"This assistance, though small, aims to give parents and students the necessary support to finish their studies. The funds would help in some expenses and I believe would be a great help in a time when money is hard to come by," Concepcion said.

The assistance was approved by the municipal government as a way of helping students get back to school.