TACLOBAN CITY – The Provincial Government of Northern Samar (PGNS) has awarded 31 nursing students with scholarships under its newly launched PGNS Nursing Scholarship Program (PGNS NSP).
The program covers tuition fees, learning expenses, stipends, and allowances to support aspiring nurses in their education.
Governor Edwin Ongchuan initiated the scholarship to address the shortage of healthcare workers in the province and help achieve the Department of Health’s ideal nurse-to-patient ratio of 1:12.
The program aims to provide financial assistance to indigent but deserving nursing students, enabling them to complete their degrees and improve their economic conditions.
Clarice Morillo from San Roque town, the scholarship is a lifeline to fulfilling her dream.
“As a farmer’s daughter, I was afraid I wouldn’t be able to finish my course because nursing is financially demanding. But with this scholarship and my determination, I am hopeful that I will graduate and become the first nurse in my family,” she said.
Another scholar, Ike Kent Caimol from Brgy. 1, Rosario, shared how the program has given him hope.
“Coming from a humble background, this scholarship gives me a new opportunity to pursue my dream in healthcare. I will be forever grateful to my province and our governor for helping me achieve my career goals.”
The PGNS NSP was established through an ordinance authored by Board Member Gilbert Layon.
Governor Ongchuan approved the ordinance in late 2023, followed by the approval of its Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR) in early 2024.
The provincial government allocated P6 million for the initial phase of the scholarship.
Out of 200 applicants, the PGNS NSP Board selected 40 candidates for interviews based on academic performance and financial need. After a panel interview and final assessment, 31 students were chosen for the scholarship.
The PGNS NSP Board is led by OIC Provincial Health Officer Ma. Aurora Dubongco, Provincial Administrator Atty. Efren Sabong, Atty. Mary Grace Royo, and the PGNS NSP Technical Working Group.
(ROEL T. AMAZONA)
