22/05/2026
๐๐ฝ๐ฝ๐-๐๐ผ๐ฝ๐ผ๐ ๐ฃ๐ ๐ฝ๐๐ฎ๐๐ฃ ๐พ๐๐ง๐๐ซ๐๐ฃ ๐ฝ๐ง๐๐ฃ๐๐จ ๐๐ค๐ฅ๐ ๐ฉ๐ค ๐๐๐ฃ๐๐๐ฃ๐๐ค, โ๐๐๐ฉ๐ช๐ก๐ค๐ฎ ๐ฃ๐ ๐๐๐ช๐ ๐๐จ๐ฎ๐ค๐ฃ, ๐๐๐ฉ๐ช๐ก๐ค๐ฎ ๐ฃ๐ ๐๐๐-๐ผ๐๐ค๐ฃ.โ
The Mindanao Cluster Caravan of the PBBM-GABAY ng Bayan Programs officially launched on Mqy 13, 2026 at General Santos City Gymnasium, Lagao, General Santos City. Led by the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) and Unified Student Financial Assistance System for Tertiary Education, the caravan showcased the national governmentโs intensified efforts to make education more accessible, inclusive, and transformative for every Filipino learner across Mindanao.
The event gathered key government officials, education leaders, and stakeholders to mark the Mindanao-wide rollout of scholarship and educational assistance programs under the PBBM-GABAY ng Bayan initiative. The program aims to expand opportunities for students, particularly those from underserved communities, by strengthening financial aid and academic support systems.
Delivering the message of solidarity and recognition of participants was CHED Regional Office XII Director Rody P. Garcia, who emphasized the importance of collective action in ensuring that no learner is left behind. He highlighted how regional collaboration plays a crucial role in achieving inclusive and equitable access to education.
Meanwhile, Septon A. De La Cruz, Officer-in-Charge Executive Director of UniFAST, formally introduced the keynote speaker, underscoring the vital role of unified government efforts in delivering educational assistance efficiently and effectively. CHED Commissioner Myrna Q. Mallari delivered an inspiring address that resonated with students and educators alike. She reaffirmed the governmentโs commitment to sustaining programs that empower learners, noting that education remains a powerful tool for nation-building and social mobility.
Welcoming the participants, General Santos City Mayor Lorelie G. Pacquiao expressed her support for initiatives that uplift the youth and strengthen the cityโs role as a hub for educational development in Mindanao. She also acknowledged the presence of representatives from various government agencies who continue to collaborate in advancing the countryโs education agenda.
The caravan not only served as a platform for information dissemination but also as a symbol of hopeโdemonstrating the governmentโs unwavering dedication to ensuring that every Filipino learner has the opportunity to pursue quality education. As the PBBM-GABAY ng Bayan Programs continue to roll out across Mindanao, the initiative stands as a testament to a shared vision: a future where education paves the way for sustained progress, empowerment, and inclusive national development.
