ONE hundred students received scholarship grants from the Mandaue City Government in a ceremonial handover held on Wednesday, May 28, 2025, at the Session Hall of Mandaue City Hall.
The ceremony marked the fourth batch of grantees under the city’s growing scholarship initiative.
According to City Councilor Malcolm Sanchez, education committee chairman, the number of applicants has significantly increased over the years. The program, which started with only 35 scholars, expanded to 50, then 85, and now supports 100 grantees in its latest round.
“This year, we are grateful to support 100 students out of over 500 applicants. They will each receive P17,500 per semester, or a total of P35,000 annually,” Sanchez said. “These scholars can enroll in any course or program in any school within Mandaue City or Cebu Province, depending on their choice,” he added.
To qualify, applicants must have a general average of at least 85 percent, with no individual subject grade lower than 80. For graduating senior high school students, only grades from the first to third grading periods are assessed, while for those who have already graduated, grades from all four grading periods are considered.
Applicants are required to submit a duly accomplished data sheet through the online application portal, a certified true copy of their report card, and a barangay certificate of residency to verify eligibility.
Sanchez clarified that disbursement of the grant is either through direct reimbursement to the school or to the parents, based on arrangements made with the scholarship board.
He also assured that the program will continue regardless of political changes, as it is protected by a city ordinance. “Whatever happens with the new administration, the program is secured by law. I would be happy to see the next set of leaders continue this because education is a personal advocacy of mine,” he said.
The program, now in its fifth year under Sanchez’s leadership, is backed by a P3.5 million annual budget.
While competition was tough, with most applicants averaging over 90, priority was given to deserving but financially challenged students, said Sanchez. “Our scholars are chosen not only based on academic excellence but also their economic background. We want to help those who need it most,” Sanchez said.
Students enrolled in public universities with free tuition may use the grant to cover other academic needs like books, school supplies, or miscellaneous fees, provided these are supported with official receipts.
The scholarship is non-exclusive, allowing grantees to avail themselves of other scholarship programs from private organizations or government agencies to supplement their educational needs.
Sanchez confirmed that the City has already coordinated with schools for the scholars’ enrollment, with certificates issued to formalize their status as City-sponsored students. “With or without tuition fees, our scholarship supports what students actually need. As long as they can show proof of educational expenses, they’re covered,” he added. / CAV