AFP opens 2012-2013 scholarship program for soldiers, dependents

MANILA, Philippines - The military has opened its college scholarship program for school year 2012-2013 in line with its efforts to support the needs of soldiers and their dependents.

Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) spokesman Col. Arnulfo Burgos Jr. said 151 scholarship slots are still available in state colleges and universities nationwide.

The AFP Educational Benefit System Office is now accepting applicants for the first semester.

“We value our soldiers’ morale and welfare which is why we are very active in offering services and benefits for them and their dependents,” said AFP chief Lt. Gen. Jessie Dellosa in a statement.

Burgos said the program covers courses in engineering, agriculture, fisheries, teacher education and social science excluding Bachelor of Laws, Physical Science, Dentistry and Medicine.

He said all military personnel are encouraged to promote the scholarship program to help soldiers’ dependents gain access to college education.

An electronic copy of the application form may be download from http://www.afpebso.org.ph.

Interested parties may call or send a text message to 0917-5076617, 0999-9933376 or 0932 8435446 for more details.

Maj. Gen. Jose Mabanta Jr., chief of the Army’s 7th Division, said the scholarship program would help enhance the performance of soldiers.

“The program would strengthen our resolve to provide service to our countrymen,” he said in a statement.

The AFP Educational Benefit System Office provides assistance including full scholarship to legitimate and qualified dependents of soldiers.

Military dependents who applied for scholarship must satisfy the organization’s requirements. The status of their parents will also be considered.

The AFP Educational Benefit System Office with the help of various state agencies and private institutions is currently serving 4,535 scholars.

Burgos said the organization gives priority to the orphans of Filipino soldiers who were killed in action.

He said two of the scholars are dependents of two of the 19 soldiers killed in last year’s clash in Al Barka, Basilan.

The AFP Educational Benefit System Office has helped 1,723 finish their college education since 2006. Of these scholars, 42 graduated cum laude while seven graduated magna cum laude.