The national government’s Bawat Barangay Makikinabang (BBM) Program will provide PHP200,000 to each barangay, with half of the grant earmarked to help support college scholars and the rest allocated for community priority projects, officials said Tuesday.

National Anti-Poverty Commission Secretary Lope Santos III said the program is an investment in education and community development, not a cash dole-out.

Speaking during a media forum, Santos said the scholarship component is expected to help about 200,000 graduating college students nationwide complete their studies and eventually join the labor force.

The remaining PHP100,000 for each barangay will fund projects identified by local officials, such as the purchase of laptops, printers, projectors, tents, monoblock chairs, generators or barangay service vehicles.

Liga ng mga Barangay-Iloilo President Amalia Victoria Debuque welcomed the initiative, saying it is the first time barangays have received direct financial assistance from Malacañang.

“This is a good project. This is a big thing for us barangays because, for the first time, we felt seen by the President,” Debuque said.

Under the program, each barangay may nominate up to five scholars, with each recipient receiving PHP20,000.

Debuque said vouchers have been prepared for about 90 percent of Iloilo province’s 1,721 barangays.

She said the release of checks is targeted before September or October, subject to the completion of documentary requirements.

Some barangays, however, have encountered delays due to unliquidated funds left by previous administrations.

“There are some barangays that are still having problems, but our office and the office of the governor are open to help them,” Debuque said.

A ceremonial turnover of checks is scheduled during the 2026 Liga Day celebration on July 19 at the Iloilo Sports Complex.

The annual gathering is expected to draw about 15,500 participants from across the province. (PNA)