STA RITA, Pampanga -- Some 704 Aetas studying from the different schools in the province on Friday received financial grants that could help them finish their education.
The provincial government of Pampanga, through the Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office (PSWDO), distributed some PHP1.93 million to Aeta students from junior and senior high school and college levels.
A total of 658 Aeta students from junior and senior high school received PHP2,500 each for a total of PHP1.645 million; while 46 college students got cash grants ranging from PHP5,000 to PHP10,000 for a total of PHP255,000.
The move is part of the provincial government’s continuing efforts to uplift the lives of the residents in the upland communities.
Governor Lilia Pineda, in her message, cited the importance of success attained through education.
She asked the Aeta students not to be intimidated by their “unat” (straight-haired) schoolmates.
“Do not be shy when facing your ‘unat’ brothers and sisters. You are all Filipinos and Kapampangans. What is important is that you are all studying and working hard. Do not be intimidated,” she said.
The governor also assured that the provincial government would assist the graduating Aeta students in seeking for their first job.
Meanwhile, Melody Infante Austria from Babo Sacan village in this town thanked the provincial government for giving them the gift of education.
Austria said getting high education is no longer a problem for the Aetas like her through the support and help of the provincial government.
“With the help of Governor Pineda, we no longer have a problem on where to get tuition fee,” she said.
She asked her fellow Aeta scholars to be diligent in studying and keep on working for their dreams in order to be successful. (PNA)
