50 OPAPP scholarships for ex- rebs kin; 1,268 for Philhealth

By Peter Balocnit

TABUK CITY, Kalinga -- The Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process (OPAPP), in cooperation with the Commission on Higher Education (CHED), is offering 50 scholarship slots for beneficiaries of the Comprehensive Local Integration Program (CLIP) nationwide.

According to Bing Haddac of the provincial social welfare and development office and coordinator of the interim CLIP for rebel returnees, the scholarship grant is for former returnees, their children and nearest relatives who are eligible for college.

Haddac said applicants must accomplish the OPAPP scholarship application form, submit school credentials and certificate of amnesty until May 30, the deadline of application.

The scholarship program is part of the government’s peace package to serve the needs of former rebel returnees who joined mainstream society and a reward for pledging allegiance to the Constitution.

 “There are at present 42 scholars enjoying this privilege in different colleges while four applications are on process which are sure to be approved,” Haddac said adding that 34 already graduated, some have jobs and one passed the latest Criminology board exam.

Each grantee is allotted P10,000.00 per year for tuition fees, monthly living allowance and book allowance. Only one slot will be availed of by qualified former rebel or the rebel’s designated qualified relative.

For next-of-kin applicants, they must present a waiver from the former rebel, Haddac said.

Meanwhile, she said the OPAPP also has 1,268 open slots for Philhealth sponsored membership slots nationwide on  a first-come,first served basis.

These programs aim to facilitate the transition of the former rebels to normal and productive life by providing assistance,” Haddac said.