Northern Samar’s provincial government is set to open applications for a new scholarship program aimed at supporting indigent but deserving agriculture students across the province.

The initiative, called the Provincial Government of Northern Samar Agriculture Scholarship Program (PGNS-ASP), was created under Sangguniang Panlalawigan Ordinance 08, series of 2025. The program seeks to provide financial assistance to qualified youth in the province pursuing a degree in agriculture, while strengthening local agricultural productivity.

“Under the ordinance and its approved implementing rules and regulations (IRR), scholars will receive financial support for their studies. In return, beneficiaries must commit to practicing agriculture within Northern Samar or engage in agri-entrepreneurship immediately after completing their degree,” the provincial government said in a statement Tuesday.

This arrangement will be formalized through an agri-entrepreneurship commitment agreement with the provincial government.

To qualify, applicants must be indigent agriculture students from Northern Samar, of good moral character, physically and mentally fit, not more than 35 years old at the time of application, carrying a full academic load each school year, and from a family of farmers as certified under the Registry System for Basic Sectors in Agriculture.

The PGNS-ASP underscores the administration’s commitment to investing in both education and agriculture. Provincial officials said the program aims to develop future agri-leaders and contribute to building a food-secure and resilient Northern Samar.

The ordinance was passed during the term of former governor Edwin Ongchuan, following a proposal by Provincial Agriculturist Jose Luis Acompanado. The program will soon admit its first batch of scholars under incumbent Governor Harris Ongchuan, who currently chairs the PGNS-ASP Board.

Further details, including application procedures and timelines, will be announced in the coming weeks. (PNA)