Puerto Princesa - The provincial government of Palawan is focusing on enhancing its skilled technical workforce by offering scholarships for advanced technical studies to young residents. Christian Jay Cojamco, the provincial government spokesperson, announced on Wednesday that 48 individuals, aged 18 to 30 years, form the first batch of scholars to undergo electro-mechanics technology training in Laguna.
According to Philippines News Agency, The scholarship initiative, known as "SPS Alay sa Kabataan - Programang Pang-Edukasyon para sa Palaweño" (SPS Tribute to the Youth - Education Program for Palaweños), is facilitated through funding approved by the Sangguniang Panlalawigan (Provincial Board) via Provincial Ordinance 3164-A passed in May. These scholarships enable beneficiaries to pursue technical and vocational courses at Technical and Vocational Institutions (TVIs) accredited by the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA). Governor Dennis Socrates, alongside Provincial Board Member Rafael Ortega, who chairs the basic education committee, and program manager Maria Victoria Baaco, met with the scholars to encourage them to excel in their studies. The program covers tuition or training fees, accommodation, food for six months, and airfare to Manila, with an estimated expense of at least PHP100,000 per scholar. Following their studies, the scholars will undergo on-the-job training at accredited companies, receiving appropriate allowances. The scholars departed for their Laguna campus on Wednesday.