First-year college students from low-income families, Indigenous Peoples (IPs), persons with disabilities (PWDs) and other special equity groups can receive up to ₱60,000 in financial assistance under a scholarship program of the Commission on Higher Education (CHED). Implementation begins in Academic Year 2026–2027.
CHED MIMAROPA Regional Director Edna Imelda Legazpi discussed the Expanded Access to Scholarships for Equity Groups (EASE) Program on the November 4 episode of Arangkada MIMAROPA. The radio program is produced by the Philippine Information Agency (PIA) MIMAROPA and Radyo Pilipinas Palawan.
The program is open to qualified incoming first-year college students who belong to Special Equity Groups (SEGs). These groups include members of low-income families, PWDs, solo parents and their children, senior citizens and IPs.
The amount of assistance depends on the type of school. Qualified students enrolled in state universities and colleges (SUCs) and local universities and colleges (LUCs) may receive ₱40,000. Those enrolled in private higher education institutions (PHEIs) may receive ₱60,000.
Legazpi said that applicants from IP communities must obtain certification from the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP) to establish their membership in a recognized tribe. She cited this as one of the requirements for that group.
“Certification sa NCIP na siya ay isang miyembro ng isang tribo,” Legazpi said.
She also said the program covers eligible students from different sectors, including senior citizens who wish to pursue their first college course. Legazpi said CHED considers senior citizens to be lifelong learners, and that the program applies only to a first course.
“Even senior citizens, if ang senior citizen gusto nilang mag-aral, puwede rin po silang mag-enroll. We consider them as lifelong learners. Basta first course po,” she said.
Through the EASE Program, CHED aims to help qualified students from special equity groups pursue their first college degree. The assistance is intended for students enrolled in eligible higher education institutions, and it targets those who may face financial barriers to attending college.
Interested applicants should coordinate with CHED or their chosen higher education institution. These offices can confirm the complete eligibility requirements, documentary submissions, application procedures and availability of assistance for Academic Year 2026–2027.
