SENATOR Panfilo Lacson has filed a bill creating the Kabataang Magsasaka National Scholarship and Return Service Program.

The proposed measure aims to break the cycle of poverty among farmers by helping their children pursue higher education, while also contributing to the country’s agricultural and food security.

The bill seeks to promote inclusive access to quality education in agriculture and allied fields for eligible children or dependents of farmers.

“Consistent with this representation’s aspiration of breaking the poverty cycle of our farmers, this measure will likewise ensure that our country will not fall short of professionals who can contribute to modernizing and strengthening the country’s food security and rural development,” Lacson said.

The program will complement existing government education subsidy initiatives under the Coconut Farmers and Industry Trust Fund Act, Rice Tariffication Law, and Universal Access to Quality Tertiary Education Act.

Lacson pointed out that while the Philippines is an agricultural country, farmers remain among the poorest sectors in society. Poverty often keeps their children from finishing school, and fewer students are choosing agriculture-related courses due to perceived lack of opportunities.

Under the bill, applicants must be certified as a child or dependent of a farmer and enrolled in, or accepted into, undergraduate or graduate programs in agriculture or related fields. Eligible institutions include State or Local Universities and Colleges, CHED-accredited private higher education institutions in the Philippines, or accredited international partner institutions for those pursuing advanced studies.