The Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) has committed P60 million to fund scholarships for 2,000 students from low-income families in Bulacan, releasing the first P10 million tranche to the provincial government on Monday.

The funding will support the Ayudang Hatid ay Tagumpay (AHT) Scholarship Program, which aims to expand access to higher education and technical-vocational training for deserving Bulakenyo students.

During the turnover ceremony at the Bulacan Capitol Gymnasium, PAGCOR Chairman and CEO Alejandro H. Tengco said the program reflects the agency's commitment to ensuring that gaming revenues directly benefit Filipinos.

"Sa pag-turn over natin ng unang tranche ng pondo ngayong araw, hindi lamang tayo nagbibigay ng tulong sa sektor ng edukasyon," Tengco said.

"Namumuhunan din tayo sa kakayahan, pangarap, at potensiyal ng ating mga kabataang magiging katuwang natin sa pagbuo ng mas maunlad na Bulacan at mas matatag na bansang Pilipinas."

Of the total allocation, P40 million will provide scholarships for 1,000 incoming college freshmen enrolled in four-year degree programs, while P20 million will support 1,000 students pursuing technical-vocational education.

Tengco said PAGCOR's mandate extends beyond regulating gaming operations and generating government revenues.

"Una, itinatag ang PAGCOR para masugpo ang ilegal na pasugalan," he said.

"Pangalawa, at ang pinakamahalaga, ay upang maibalik sa taumbayan ang mga kinikita ng PAGCOR sa pamamagitan ng mga programang makatutulong sa mga Pilipino at sa nation-building."

Bulacan Gov. Daniel Fernando welcomed the assistance, saying it would help more students continue their education despite financial challenges.

"We thank PAGCOR for its continued support in the education of the Bulakenyo youth. This scholarship program will help expand access to quality education and create opportunities for deserving students across the province," Fernando said.

The scholarship initiative is part of the Bawat Buhay Mahalaga Caravan, which brings government services and assistance closer to communities, including education-focused programs.

Tengco also announced that PAGCOR will fund the construction of 10 three-story school buildings in Bulacan and establish the Bulacan Sports Academy for aspiring young athletes.