A total of 11,640 college Capitol Scholars in Pampanga will receive higher educational assistance next year after Vice Gov. Dennis “Delta” Pineda announced an increase from ₱4,000 to ₱5,000 under the province’s Educational Financial Assistance Program (EFAP).

The additional ₱1,000 aims to help ease students’ school expenses and support their pursuit of higher education, particularly those balancing studies and work.

Among those who welcomed the announcement was 22-year-old Lois Mesias, a Hospitality Management student who works as a restaurant crew member in Bacolor. She said the assistance provides valuable support to working students striving to finish their education while helping their families.

Meanwhile, 1,947 Capitol Scholars from Pampanga’s Second District received ₱4,000 each during a payout held at the Guagua National Colleges Covered Court on November 12.

Under EFAP, educational assistance is distributed twice a year to qualified student-beneficiaries.

Also present to support the program were Board Members Fritzie David-Dizon, Atty. Claire Lim and Sajid Eusoof; Guagua Mayor Anthony Joseph Torres; Vice Mayor Jun; and other members of the Sangguniang Bayan.