The City Government of Davao continues its commitment to providing quality education for Dabawenyo students through the Educational Benefit System Unit (EBSU). Over the past three years, the program has supported thousands of qualified indigent Dabawenyos, ensuring that they have access to educational opportunities.

From School Year (SY) 2022-2023, EBSU logged a total of 2,105 scholars, with 390 graduates. The following school year, S.Y. 2023-2024, saw a rise to 2,368 scholars, with 292 graduates. In the current school year, S.Y. 2024-2025, the program is supporting 2,512 scholars.

As of March 30, 2025, 150 scholars have already graduated, with 300 new slots being added to the scholarship program for the upcoming school year. In addition to these, the program will allocate 100 slots for Indigenous Peoples (IPs), 100 slots for the Technical and Vocational Skills Training Program, and 100 slots for persons with disabilities.

According to Emilio Domingo Jr., EBSU’s Head, Mayor Sebastian Duterte recognized the need to expand the scholarship slots to reach more students in Davao, leading to the increase in available spots.

The EBSU scholarship program includes various categories, such as the Tertiary Education Program-Financial Assistance (STEP-FA), Special Educational Assistance Program (SEAP), and financial aid for Lumad students, children with special needs, and even for those pursuing law and medical education.

The STEP-FA program has three categories:

• Category A: P25,000 per semester or P50,000 annually
• Category B: P20,000 per semester or P40,000 annually
• Category C: P7,500 per semester or P15,000 annually

For students in the Technical and Vocational Skills Training Program, they are entitled to P15,000 annually, while children with special needs receive P10,000 annually.

To qualify for the STEP-FA program, Dabawenyo students must meet specific requirements, including proof of residency, certificate of indigency, and other necessary documentation.

Applications for SY 2025-2026 will be accepted online from April 21–30, and students are encouraged to visit the City Government of Davao website and the EBSU-STEP Facebook page for updates.

This scholarship program remains a cornerstone of Davao City’s efforts to empower its youth, giving them the tools they need for a brighter future.