South Cotabato, Philippines — The Provincial Government of South Cotabato, under the leadership of Governor Reynaldo S. Tamayo, Jr., continues to uphold its commitment to accessible and equitable education through the Kabugwason–Paglaum Scholarship and Grant-In-Aid Program (KPSGIAP).
Anchored on the province’s vision of “Free Education for All,” KPSGIAP opens opportunities for deserving and underprivileged students to pursue higher learning and become catalysts of change in their communities.
According to Atty. Rhonalyn Gallego, CAO/OIC-Executive Director, KPSGIAP, “Education is the most powerful investment a government can make. Through this program, we are not just funding students—we are shaping the next generation of leaders who will drive South Cotabato’s progress.”
The Degree Courses Scholarship offers full educational assistance to qualified college students enrolled in both public and private higher education institutions.
It covers tuition and miscellaneous fees, book allowance, and a monthly stipend, with the following grant amounts:
- ₱35,000 per semester for students in State Universities and Colleges (SUCs)
- ₱42,000 per semester for those in Private Colleges and Universities
Applicants must have a General Weighted Average (GWA) of 85% or higher, an annual family income not exceeding ₱500,000, and be enrolled in priority courses such as Engineering, Education, Agriculture, Accountancy, Nursing, Social Work, Community Development, and Public Safety.
To encourage professional growth, KPSGIAP also provides support to postgraduate students pursuing higher degrees in their respective fields.
The Postgraduate Scholarship Program covers the following:
- Juris Doctor – up to ₱35,000 per semester
- Doctor of Medicine – up to ₱45,000 per semester
- Master’s and Doctorate programs – up to ₱30,000 per semester
“This program primarily assists public school teachers, government employees, and professionals dedicated to improving public service through continuous education,” Gallego said.
Designed to address barriers to education, the Grant-In-Aid Program supports students from economically or socially disadvantaged backgrounds.
Eligible beneficiaries include indigent families, persons with disabilities (PWDs), Indigenous Peoples (IPs), Muslim students, solo parents and their children, and students who brought honor to the province.
Grantees may receive up to ₱20,000 per semester, inclusive of tuition aid, book allowance, and a ₱5,000 monthly stipend.
The program ensures inclusivity by categorizing scholars according to their background and need, from low-income families to outstanding achievers representing South Cotabato in national and international competitions.
Beyond financial support, KPSGIAP fosters values of leadership, discipline, and community service. Scholars undergo mentoring, academic monitoring, and leadership development sessions to strengthen their sense of purpose and social responsibility.
“To maintain their scholarships, recipients must uphold good academic performance and reinforce their sense of responsibility to society,” she added.
Through this program, the Provincial Government of South Cotabato continues to invest in its most valuable asset—the youth. By empowering students through education, the province builds a future driven by knowledge, compassion, and service.
