A revolutionary and transformative new social amelioration program was launched in the grandest manner possible Aug. 30 by distributing a total of P5.28 billion in financial aid in just two days to 1.32 million Filipino parents of senior high students to defray the costs of education and help them achieve their education goals.
Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez, the main proponent of the Tulong Eskwela Program, said that this project was part of the directive of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. during his 3rd State of the Nation Address (SONA) to work toward educational reform through technology and modernization.
“This initiative is designed to alleviate the financial burdens that often hinder our senior high school students from realizing their full potential. By providing critical financial assistance to families across the nation, we are ensuring that education remains a reachable goal for every Filipino child, regardless of their economic background,” Romualdez said.
The program was launched Aug. 30 in 220 areas in all provinces nationwide, with each area of implementation having a total of 3,000 parents of senior high school students chosen as beneficiaries for the financial assistance, under the Ayuda para sa Kapos Ang Kita Program (AKAP) of the DSWD, and another 3,000 for employment assistance under the Tulong Panghanapbuhay Sa Ating Disadvantaged/Displaced Workers (TUPAD) of DOLE.
“The integration of AKAP and TUPAD within the Tulong Eskwela Program not only provides immediate relief but also employment opportunities for the families of our students,” Romualdez said in a press release, adding “this dual approach ensures that we are addressing both the short-term and long-term needs of our communities.”
Some 660,000 parents received P3,000 each of AKAP cash aid, and another 660,000 got P5,000 in employment assistance, for a total of P5.28 billion in financial aid to P1.32 million beneficiaries in simultaneous distribution ceremonies Aug. 30 to 31.
Romualdez said the Tulong Eskwela Program not only provides monetary aid but also fosters an environment of encouragement and support by investing in Filipino students on the cusp of achieving their dreams.
“Education is the cornerstone of progress, and it is through education that we can empower the next generation to lead our nation to greater heights. By enabling the youth to continue their education, we are investing in the development of a skilled, knowledgeable and potent workforce,” he added. ||
