Negros Occidental Launches Maritime Scholarship for Negrense Students

Negros Occidental Governor Bong Lacson has formalized a partnership with John B. Lacson Colleges Foundation (Bacolod) Inc. (JBLCF-B) to provide maritime scholarships for students in the province.

During a Memorandum of Agreement signing at the JBLCF-B campus in Barangay Alijis, Bacolod City, on October 30, Lacson emphasized the provincial government’s commitment to expanding educational opportunities for underprivileged yet deserving Negrense youth.

“Today, we will sign a Memorandum Agreement with our partner manning companies. This is a significant step towards our goal of making education accessible, especially to the less privileged but deserving Negrense students,” Lacson said.

The scholarship program, supported by the Provincial Government, offers a “Study Now, Pay Later” scheme, allowing 30 qualified students to pursue degrees in Bachelor of Science in Marine Transportation and Bachelor of Science in Marine Engineering at JBLCF-B.

Scholars are expected to fulfill their academic requirements to complete their degrees, aiming to bolster the pool of trained seafarers from Negros Occidental.

The agreement involves collaboration among the Provincial Government, JBLCF-B, and partner manning companies, including Fukujin Kisen Co., Ltd., Misuga Management Services, Inc., and Briese Schiffahrt Philippines.

Representatives from these companies were present at the event, including Fukujin Kisen CEO Capt. Achilles Cuadra Jr., Misuga Management Services Crew Training and Career Development Manager Oliver Q. Velasco, and Briese Schiffahrt Philippines President Josephine A. Evangelio.

Lacson acknowledged the continuous support from parents and recognized the efforts of the Negros Occidental Scholarship Program Division (NOSPD) led by Karen Dinsay.

He praised Dinsay’s “dynamic and committed dedication to the development of the Negrense learners,” noting her role in driving the scholarship initiative.

JBLCF-B Administrator Engr. Sylvino V. Tupas also attended the signing, signaling the institution’s commitment to the partnership and the professional growth of its students.

The program aims to address the demand for skilled maritime professionals by providing accessible education pathways and practical industry training through its tripartite framework.

The maritime scholarship is expected to provide long-term benefits to both the beneficiaries and the local maritime industry by empowering students with essential maritime skills and opening career pathways in a globally competitive field.