At least 184 students from Albay province will receive financial assistance under the Tulong-Dunong Program (TDP) of the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) with the help of the Ako Bicol Party-List (AKB).

In an interview on Thursday, Sally Luces, AKB media relations officer, said each student will receive PHP7,500 per semester to assist them with their educational expenses.

“The AKB with Rep. Elizaldy Co and CHED started the orientation for the 184 students from Tabaco City and other towns of the 1st District in Albay province. They can expect the cash grant before the end of the school year,” Luces said.

She said the assistance is a big help for students struggling financially but have big dreams to continue their studies.

“Dagdag tulong ang financial aid, lalo na sa mga projects, requirements nila sa school. Hindi na nila ito hihingin sa kanilang mga magulang, makakabawas na ito sa gastos para sa isang pamilya lalo na madaming nag aaral na mga kapatid (Financial aid is an extra help, especially in their projects, their school requirments. They will no longer ask their parents for it, it will reduce the cost for a family especially those who have many siblings who are also studying),” Luces said.

In a statement, Co said education is the key to development, and he will make sure that no Bicolano student is left behind when it comes to the opportunity to study.

As part of the continuous education support, AKB is committed to reaching more needy students and helping their studies to realize their dreams, he said.

Co said every student that Ako Bicol helps is one step closer to a more prosperous future for Bicol. (PNA)