A FUNDRAISING initiative led by students of the Visayas State University collected more than P60,000 for cash-strapped learners.

Dubbed as “TabangViscan: Alang sa Kalampusan sa Nagkinahanglan,” the event raised P61,100 which will be shared by five students.

“The five student beneficiaries represent each campus of the VSU system. They were chosen and vetted by the University Supreme Student Council Federation and the Office of the Vice President for Student Affairs and Services,” the university said.

“The life stories of the five student beneficiaries were featured in a three-hour benefit variety show where students showcased their talents while also getting a chance of winning electronic cash and load prizes,” it added.

Student Regent Tisha Cortez thanked those who helped their initiative.

“At first, I was a bit worried given the limited time provided to us to choose the student beneficiaries plus the challenge of raising enough money to help them. But thankfully with the help of everyone who watched the live stream and our very generous donors, we were able to collect more than our initial expectations. The financial assistance raised will surely go a long way in providing temporary relief for all of them,” Cortez said.

Dr. Aleli Villocino, vice president for Student Affairs and Services, said that the success of the initiative proves the care and compassion of the VSU community.

“I’m completely overwhelmed and blown away by the generosity of our community of Viscans. We only posted their life story a day before the actual live stream and look at how much we gathered for our five student beneficiaries. Challenging times like this can really bring out the best in our people and we hope that we continue to help each other as we recover from the Covid19 pandemic,” Villocino said.

University President Edgardo Tulin awarded five winners of P1,000 electronic cash during the event.

Major telecom player Talk ‘N Text partnered with VSU to provide a three-month load subsidy to 40 students.