PAMPANGA, Philippines – A proud Kapampangan, Erna Kayla, secured a Top 3 spot in the recent Customs Broker Licensure Examination (CBLE). But her success is not hers alone—it is a victory she shares with her hardworking solo parent mother and the provincial government, which supported her education through the Delta Educational Financial Assistance Program (EFAP).
Kayla, a Delta scholar from Mabalacat City College, completed her Bachelor of Science in Customs Administration despite life’s challenges, thanks to the scholarship program initiated by Pampanga Governor Dennis “Delta” Pineda. On Wednesday, March 26, over 6,000 other Delta scholars also received their educational assistance, allowing more Kapampangan youth to pursue their dreams.
“Education is the key to overcoming poverty. Take it seriously because it will be your weapon for the future,” Gov. Pineda told the scholars. Joining him in supporting the program were former board member Mylyn Pineda-Cayabyab and board members Fritzie David Dizon, Sajid Khan Eusoof, Atty. Claire Lim, Lucky Labung, and Atty. Jun Canlas.
The scholars come from various towns and sectors across Pampanga, including San Fernando, coastal barangays of Lubao, Sasmuan, Macabebe, and Masantol, as well as families of PWDs, daycare workers, solo parents, and students from Arayat, Sta. Ana, Apalit, Candaba, Minalin, San Luis, Sto. Tomas, and San Simon.
According to the Provincial Library, the scholarship program has now assisted around 13,000 to 14,000 students in their educational journey. The provincial government reaffirmed its commitment to expanding its reach, ensuring that more young Kapampangans receive the support they need to succeed.
Through perseverance, hard work, and government support, more success stories will be written—just like Erna Kayla’s, proving that no dream is impossible with determination and a helping hand.