Marcos to scholars: 'Mag-aral kayong mabuti,' stresses value of education
President Marcos has urged student-beneficiaries of the government’s scholarship program to take their studies seriously, emphasizing that education is a lifelong asset.
“Mapakinabangan ninyo ito at mag-aral kayong mabuti at napakahalaga ng magandang edukasyon (Make the most of this and study well because a good education is very important),” the President told 130 Presidential Scholars during a visit to the Lagao Gymnasium in General Santos City on May 1.
Marcos said the scholarship program is funded through the Socio-Civic Projects Fund (SCPF), with a portion allocated from the assistance given to barangays. Each barangay receives P200,000, half of which is earmarked for education.
“‘Yung kalahati nun… P20,000 ang ibibigay sa limang scholar (Half of that… P20,000 will be given to five scholars),” he said, explaining the structure of the program.
The President said the initiative aims to support students who are at risk of not finishing school due to financial constraints.
“Kaya namin ginawa ito para mas maging madali… lalo na ‘yung malapit na mag-graduate pero kulang ang pambayad (We did this to make it easier… especially for those close to graduating but lacking funds),” he said.
He added that completing education opens more opportunities for students to help themselves, their families, and their communities.
‘Kayamanan’ that cannot be taken
Marcos described education as a form of wealth that cannot be lost or stolen.
“‘Yan ay kayamanan na kahit ano pa ang mangyari ay hindi na mababawi sa inyo, hindi kayang agawin, hindi kayang nakawin ‘yan (That is a kind of wealth that no matter what happens cannot be taken from you, cannot be stolen),” he said.
He stressed that education serves as a foundation for lifelong stability.
With this, the President encouraged scholars to remain focused and disciplined in their education.
“Dapat seryoso kayo sa pag-aaral at hindi kayo magsisisi (You must be serious in your studies and you will not regret it),” he said.
He shared that his own experience showed how education can provide long-term benefits.
The President met the scholars during a visit that also included rice distribution and the rollout of financial assistance to barangays under government programs aimed at supporting communities and students.