Aliah P. Cali-Pascan, DPA, JD
During the program’s official launching, MSU President Atty Basari Mapupuno, university officials, Secretary Carlito G. Galvez Jr. of OPAPRU, and key representatives from the BARMM government came together in a show of unified support for the educational empowerment of the children and next of kin of decommissioned MILF combatants.
Marawi City, Lanao del Sur — In a landmark effort that merges peacebuilding with access to education, the Mindanao State University (MSU) plays a crucial role in supporting the Educational Assistance Program for the children and next of kin of decommissioned MILF combatants. With over 1,050 beneficiaries across Mindanao, this initiative affirms the government’s commitment to inclusive development through education.
Launched as part of the normalization track of the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro (CAB), the program offers ₱50,000 financial support per beneficiary, distributed in two tranches. These funds are intended to ease the burden of educational costs, covering tuition fees, school supplies, uniforms, and transportation.
“This is more than just financial aid. This is a statement of peace, inclusion, and our collective hope for a better Bangsamoro,” said an MSU representative involved in the program’s implementation.
Efficient Implementation with MSU’s Support
At MSU’s Institute for Peace and Development in Mindanao (IPDM), grantees from Lanao del Sur gathered for the scheduled cheque distribution. Similarly, in Maguindanao, over 500 beneficiaries—many from nearby provinces—came together to claim their grants, underscoring the program’s widespread impact.
To ensure efficient and transparent disbursement, the program adopted a mix of on-site cheque releases and Landbank transfers, depending on each beneficiary’s preference. Including bank transfers proved to be an effective method for faster, more secure distribution.
Documenting Impact and Accountability
Each disbursement was meticulously documented with photo evidence of grantees holding their cheques and valid IDs. These images serve not only as proof of receipt but also as a visual testament to the real lives transformed by the program.
“Every student we assist today is a future teacher, doctor, engineer, or peacebuilder. This is how we rebuild communities from conflict,” said Sec Carlito Galvez.
Addressing Challenges and Looking Ahead
Despite its success, the program faces ongoing challenges, particularly in ensuring that unclaimed cheques reach their intended recipients and that all beneficiary names are finalized promptly. In collaboration with local stakeholders and partner agencies, MSU continues to follow up and schedule releases while improving outreach mechanisms.
A Step Toward Lasting Peace
This Educational Assistance Program serves as a powerful reminder that peace is not achieved through treaties alone, but through tangible investments in people—especially the youth. By reducing financial barriers to education, the program uplifts entire communities that were previously caught in cycles of conflict.
MSU remains steadfast as a peace part
