Senator Loren Legarda reaffirmed her commitment to education by announcing that all college students in her home province of Antique will be eligible to receive P10,000 in educational assistance through the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Educational Assistance Program.

"Our youth have the right to dream and achieve a better future. Through our collaboration with Congressman AA Legarda and the DSWD, we have allocated funds to ensure that every college student in our province will not be deprived of this right," Legarda said.

"My brother, Congressman AA Legarda, and I believe that education is the greatest legacy we can give to our youth. Through education programs, we address their needs so they can build a better future, become exemplary citizens, and contribute to the development of our nation," she added.

The distribution of educational assistance began on Thursday, 13 February, at the Paghi-usa Hall inside the University of Antique main campus in Sibalom. Meanwhile, students studying outside Antique will have to wait for further announcements.

Legarda assured that this financial aid would be available to all Antiqueño students, regardless of whether they already receive a scholarship under her programs.

Advocacy for accessible education

Legarda's commitment to advancing Philippine education extends beyond local initiatives. Her role in passing key laws, such as the Universal Access to Quality Tertiary Education Act (RA 10931), the No Permit, No Exam Prohibition Act (RA 11984), and the Unified Student Financial Assistance System for Tertiary Education (UniFAST) Act (RA 10687), has helped ensure that more students can pursue higher education without financial barriers.

Her dedication to providing quality and accessible education has also earned her a key position as Commissioner of the Second Congressional Commission on Education (EDCOM2).

"Education is not just a dream but an investment in a better future, so we will not allow poverty to hinder its attainment. We will continue to provide support to ensure that every child has the opportunity to study and secure a brighter and more prosperous future," Legarda said.

"This is part of our ongoing mission to uplift the quality of life of our fellow Antiqueños, especially those who are less fortunate," she added.