Bangsamoro, Philippines — One Hundred Eighty-Two (182) Mujahideen Assistance for Science Education (MASE) Program grantees across the region took an oath. They also received cash assistance on March 8, 2023, at Alnor Convention Center, Cotabato City, which the Ministry of Science and Technology implemented.

Minister Silongan gave an inspirational message in the opening program and said that this initiative program for sons and daughters of Mujahideens (Islamic combatants) helps assist and support them in their college education journey. They would also contribute to the region’s development as the future S & T human resource.

“MOST continuously grants stipends to deserving students under the MASE Program. It is our help and assistance to the sons and daughters of Bangsamoro combatants taking science and technology courses to alleviate S & T education in the region and contribute to future advancement and development.” Minister Silongan said.

She also congratulated and encouraged students to be goal-oriented, determined, and focused on their goals to finish their studies, as the entirety of success is within them.

“It is just a support, but the entirety and the true essence of success are within you. I encourage you to focus, be determined, and pursue your education and life goals.” Minister added.

Education Minister Iqbal administered the oath-taking of 182 grantees.

The MASE grantees from different provinces across the Bangsamoro region also received cash assistance amounting to P24,000.00, covering three (3) months. They will also receive an additional P16,000.00 for a total of P40,000.00 cash assistance in a semester.

Atty. Lanang Ali Jr., Suwaib Oranon, Atty. Rasol Mitmug, Jr., Hatimil Hassan, Mujib Abu, Muslima Asmawil, Faiz Alaudin, Rasul Ismael, Abdullah Hashim, and Engr. Aida Silongan were the fund source for this second batch of MASE grants.

Some Members of the Parliament present, and their representatives gave inspiring and commitment messages to continue supporting the MASE program to help the sons/daughters of combatants.

Furthermore, Rocaya Edres, LPT, Science Education, Scholarships, and Grants Division Chief, discussed with students that they must adhere to the scholarship’s guidelines, such as maintaining their grades and opening Landbank accounts to download cash grants and other reminders.

A total of 366 grantees have continually been granted by MOST through MASE Program sponsored by MPs.

The MASE Program is a cash assistance program of Member of the Parliament Engr. Aida Silongan, under her Transitional Development Impact Fund (TDIF), supported by other MPs and anchored in MOST’s Science Education, Scholarships, and Grants (SESG) that supports sons/daughters of combatants taking science and technology courses at any college level.

Photo credits: Bangsamoro Information Office, Office of MP Rasul Ismael

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