The provincial government of Dinagat Islands released educational financial assistance to 156 students studying at Caraga State University (CSU) in Butuan City on Monday, with Gov. Nilo Demerey Jr. stressing that education is the key to poverty reduction.

Demerey led the distribution of PHP390,000 in financial aid, with each student receiving PHP2,500 for the second semester of Academic Year 2025-2026.

“The aid will help the parents and the students ease financial burdens, especially in their daily expenses, school fees, and other needs in their schooling,” Demerey said in a message to the Philippine News Agency on Tuesday.

He added that the assistance will ensure students from Dinagat Islands can stay enrolled and focus on their studies instead of dropping out due to financial difficulties.

The governor stressed the vital role of education in the provincial government’s continuing efforts to fight poverty.

“Education can lift everybody out of poverty. We are working to eradicate poverty, but let’s start with education,” Demerey said.

He also told the students that the assistance is an investment in their future, adding that when they finish studying, the provincial government is ready for their employment.

Earlier this month, the provincial government also released PHP10.6 million in scholarship funds for 537 students enrolled in different courses at Don Jose Ecleo Memorial College in Dinagat, intended for the first semester of AY 2025-2026.

“The continuing educational support through scholarships and grants will also give disadvantaged students a fair chance to pursue higher education and boost their morale and is a manifestation of the provincial government’s commitment to youth development,” Demerey said. (PNA)