AGRI Party-list Rep. Wilbert T. Lee on Sunday lauded the Land Bank of the Philippines’ new scholarship program for dependents of agrarian reform beneficiaries, small farmers and fisherfolk.

The LandBank recently announced that it allotted P128 million for the educational expenses of 360 scholars from 2023 to 2028.

Lee, however, urged the bank to expand the program which he said will help convince the youth to pursue a career in the agriculture sector.

The lawmaker said LandBank generated a net income of P30.1 billion in 2022, 38.2 percent more than the P21.7 billion it earned in 2021.

The Iskolar ng LandBank program will support 60 scholars every year until 2028. Each scholar will receive P100,000 per year to cover allowance and expenses for books, clothing, and other course requirements.

Special cash incentives will also be given to those who graduate with honors.

The LandBank said it initially partnered with 12 state colleges and universities in Metro Manila; Northern, Central and Southern Luzon; Visayas and Mindanao.