Forty students of Northern Bukidnon State College (NBSC) formally signed their scholarship contracts under the NBSC–LGU–Vienovo Scholarship Program on October 27, 2026, at the Student Welfare and Development Center (SWDC) Building.
The scholarship program resulted from the College’s initiative to seek private-sector partnerships to assist students experiencing financial difficulties despite the government’s provision of free tuition and miscellaneous school fees.
College President Dr. Christie Jean Villanueva-Ganiera earlier met with Manolo Fortich Municipal Mayor Hon. Rogelio L. Quiño to discuss the financial challenges faced by students, particularly their daily transportation, food, and other school expenses. She sought the Mayor’s assistance in connecting the College with chief executive officers and managers of local industries and companies for possible scholarship partnerships.
In response, Mayor Quiño tasked the Local Economic Development and Investment Promotions Office (LEDIPO) to facilitate the initiative. Subsequently, the Student Affairs Services and Development Division (SASDD), headed by Ms. Rowena E. Bagongon, presented data on students in need of financial assistance during a coordination meeting with LEDIPO.
Vienovo Philippines Inc. became the first industry partner to respond, extending scholarship assistance to 40 qualified NBSC students.
Vienovo Philippines Inc., headed by President and CEO Mr. Mathieu Francis Marie Guillaume, is an animal feed manufacturing company operating a feed mill in Manolo Fortich, Bukidnon. The scholarship forms part of its corporate social responsibility initiatives.
The partnership was initially formalized through a Memorandum of Understanding signed on August 4, 2026. During the October 27 ceremony, Mr. Clienth H. Cajegas of Vienovo Philippines Inc. provided an orientation on the scholarship program and participated in the contract-signing activity with the student beneficiaries.
Under the scholarship agreement, each beneficiary will receive a monthly allowance of ₱1,000 to help cover transportation, books, and other educational expenses, subject to the program’s terms and conditions.
In his welcome remarks, SASAFAO Head Mx. Franco Ceasar M. Agbalog, RPsy, welcomed the scholars and participants to the ceremony, which marked an important milestone in extending financial support to deserving NBSC students.
In her message, Dr. Ganiera expressed appreciation to the Municipal Government of Manolo Fortich, LEDIPO, and Vienovo Philippines Inc. for supporting the initiative. She encouraged the scholars to study diligently, value the opportunity, and extend similar assistance to others when they become successful.
A particularly moving moment during the ceremony came from Lawrence Sombreno, who delivered the words of gratitude on behalf of the beneficiaries.
“Niabot nako sa point nga iuli na nako ang balon sa akong ginikanan, pang plite lang akong kuhaon,” he shared, recalling how he would return part of his allowance to his parents and keep only enough for transportation.
His testimony reflected the sacrifices of many students and families struggling with the everyday costs of education. He thanked Vienovo Philippines Inc., NBSC, and everyone who made the scholarship possible.
The activity was facilitated by the Student Assistance, Scholarship and Financial Aid Office (SASAFAO), headed by Mx. Agbalog, together with Scholarship Coordinator Mr. Earl John O. Luchin and the NBSC Scholars’ Circle.
The College hopes that this initial partnership will encourage more industries and businesses in Manolo Fortich to support deserving students, expanding opportunities for those who need financial assistance to continue and complete their education.
Written by: Student Accounts, Scholarship Aides, and Financial Assistance Office
Photos by: Student Accounts, Scholarship Aides, and Financial Assistance Office
