South Cotabato, Philippines— Twenty-seven nursing and three pharmacy graduates under the Kabugwason Paglaum Scholarship and Grant-in-Aid Program (KPSGIAP) passed their respective November 2025 licensure examinations, crediting their success to the financial and moral support provided by the Provincial Government of South Cotabato.
The scholars — Mary Rose F. Apsay, RN; Hazel Joy S. Hermo, RN; Dilene Muñasque, RN; Kaye Nicole A. Bienes, RN; and Nicole Angela Lazo, RPh — shared how Kabugwason helped them navigate financial challenges, focus on studies, and excel in their board exam preparations.
The scholars recalled how the program sustained them through their academic journey.
“The scholarship gave me stability during stressful times and reminded me that I was capable even when I felt like giving up,” said Mary Rose F. Apsay, RN.
“Kabugwason supported me from first year up to my board exam review, easing the financial burden of a costly medical course,” added Dilene Muñasque, RN.
“The Kabugwason/Grant-in-Aid Scholarship has been a steady source of support from my first year in college until my board exam journey. During challenging times, the program allowed me to focus on my studies instead of worrying about financial stress,” said Nicole Angela Lazo, RPh.
The scholars emphasized the scholarship’s role in helping them achieve their professional goals.
“Kabugwason covered my review fees and allowance, allowing me to focus fully on my studies,” shared Hazel Joy S. Hermo, RN.
“The support helped me attend review classes consistently and study with a clear, focused mind,” said Kaye Nicole A. Bienes, RN.
“Through the financial assistance, I was able to purchase a tablet for daily studying. Reviewing thousands of PDF pages would have been difficult and expensive if I had to print everything. The tablet helped me study more efficiently and stay organized,” Lazo added.
The graduates offered guidance for those currently benefiting from the program.
“Stay disciplined and grateful — you were chosen for a reason, so keep pushing forward,” Apsay advised.
“College can be challenging but keep going because great opportunities await once you finish,” Muñasque encouraged.
“Being a scholar is both a privilege and an encouragement to always do better,” Lazo said, emphasizing goal setting, time management, and gratitude.
Two of the graduates shared the habits and attitudes that allowed them to make the most of the scholarship.
“I learned to prioritize needs over wants, which helped me use the assistance wisely,” Hermo said.
“Good time management and responsibility helped me maximize this blessing,” Bienes shared.
All five scholars expressed deep appreciation to the provincial leadership for investing in their dreams.
“Your support allowed me to pursue my dream of becoming a nurse, and I hope to give back through service to my community,” Apsay said.
“Your support made it possible for me to pursue my studies and dream of a better future. I am truly grateful for believing in me and in many other students,” Lazo shared.
The success of these scholars highlights South Cotabato’s strong commitment to making education accessible. Through the Kabugwason Scholarship Program, the province continues to empower youth, uplift families, and produce competent professionals ready to serve their communities.
