A total of 753 students from Samal Island City College (SICC) received PHP10,000 each under the Tertiary Education Subsidy (TES) program of the Commission on Higher Education (CHED), the Island Garden City of Samal (IGACOS) government announced Thursday.

The payout held on Wednesday forms part of Batch 15 of the TES program, a grant-in-aid initiative under Republic Act 10931 or the Universal Access to Quality Tertiary Education Act.

It provides financial aid to eligible students enrolled in CHED-recognized public and private higher education institutions.

During the distribution, Mayor Lemuel Reyes urged students to remain focused and determined in their academic journey.

“Strive hard for you to reach your goal. This is the path to your success,” Reyes said, reaffirming the city government’s commitment to supporting the youth.

“We will continue to help you—all you have to do is study hard,” he added.

SICC’s Internal Scholarship Program also offers academic, sports, talent, student assistant, indigenous people, and Department of the Interior and Local Government scholarships, all aimed at supporting deserving students according to institutional guidelines.

During an interview facilitated by the Samal Information Office on Thursday, Vemre Milo, a third-year Bachelor of Science in Tourism Management student, shared his appreciation for being selected as a TES beneficiary.

“TES is a big help to us. Being included motivates me to strive harder and reach my goal,” Milo said.

He also assured the city government and CHED that he will use the “blessing” to complete his studies and help others. (PNA)