University of Cebu (UC) has partnered with the Development Bank of the Philippines (DBP) to provide full scholarships and monthly allowances to 40 students from low-income families, as the state-owned lender expands its nationwide education support program.
The scholarships were awarded under DBP’s Integrated Scholastic Program for Inclusive and Responsive Education (INSPIRE), which was formally launched at UC’s main campus in Cebu City on Feb. 19, 2026.
The partnership makes UC the first private university to join the government bank’s scholarship initiative.
DBP allocated about P8 million for the initial batch at UC, drawn from a nationwide INSPIRE fund of around P510 million.
Another 40 scholars will be admitted next academic year and annually thereafter, forming five batches through 2029.
“For private school scholars, DBP covers both tuition and monthly allowance,” said DBP First Vice President Zandro Carlos P. Sison.
“What sets INSPIRE apart is that we continue to support scholars until they take their board examinations, if their course requires one. Each batch is supported for four to five years, depending on the degree program.”
The program currently covers selected four-year courses in engineering and real estate, with national priorities also including science, information technology, accountancy and maritime studies.
Scholars are required only to maintain passing grades to retain the benefits.
Sison said the initiative is designed to expand access to quality education without placing financial obligations on graduates.
“There is no payback requirement,” he said. “If, in the future, some of them choose to serve in DBP through internships or employment, that would be welcome, but it is not mandatory. We are investing in people, not binding them.”
The 40 beneficiaries were selected through a screening and evaluation process and come from families with annual net incomes of P150,000 or below.
Many attended the orientation and contract signing with their parents.
Dr. Leonilo Oliva, UC scholarship head, said the program could be life-changing for students whose ability to finish college often depends on financial support.
“DBP INSPIRE removes that barrier. We only ask our scholars to persevere and pass their subjects,” Oliva said. “With determination and discipline, they can complete their degrees and uplift not only themselves but their families as well.”
UC Chairman Augusto W. Go, meanwhile, urged DBP to consider expanding the program to include Bachelor of Science in Computer Science majors focused on artificial intelligence development.
“As we build engineers and real estate professionals, we must also build digital innovators,” Go said, noting that AI is reshaping industries globally. “This is where the future is headed.”
With 40 more scholars set to be admitted each year, UC said the partnership represents a long-term investment in human capital, aimed at improving access to higher education and strengthening the country’s future workforce.
Cebu Business News
