The 44th regular session of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan of Palawan, held on June 4, featured significant discussions on increasing free tuition slots for Palaweño students, the promotion of the film “1521,”and the acknowledgment of local athletes’ achievements in the MIMAROPA Regional Athletic Meet.
One of the primary guests during the Question and Answer Hour was Dr. Amabel Liao, President of Western Philippines University (WPU).
Dr. Liao presented the university’s efforts to increase the limited slots for free tuition available to Palaweño youth aspiring for higher education. This initiative follows interventions by the Sangguniang Panlalawigan, which consecutively invited representatives from WPU and Palawan State University (PalSU) to address the restricted number of free tuition slots for incoming first-year students.
The discussion aims to assist financially challenged Palaweño students in accessing higher education without the burden of tuition fees in private universities across the province.
Also in attendance was Francis Lara Ho, the film producer of the movie “1521,” starring popular actress Bea Alonzo. Ho encouraged Palaweños, especially the youth, to watch and support the film, which showcases the rich culture and history of the Philippines.
The movie’s filming locations included various parts of Puerto Princesa City and Taytay, Palawan. Ho emphasized the film’s social relevance, particularly concerning the territorial dispute between the Philippines and China over the West Philippine Sea (WPS).
DepEd Palawan Assistant Superintendent Dr. Rodel Magnaye, representing SDS Superintendent Dr. Elsie T. Barrios, attended the session with Grace Estefano to express gratitude for the approval of Provincial Ordinance No. 3475-A.
This ordinance provides incentives to Palaweño athletes and their coaches and trainers who brought honor to the province during the recent MIMAROPA Regional Athletic (RAA) Meet, with a total allocation of P2M.
They proudly presented the trophies and medals won by Palawan’s delegation in elementary and secondary categories, including 65 gold, 77 silver, and 76 bronze medals.
The session also saw the drafting of various resolutions beneficial to the residents, focusing on agricultural development and public health enhancement.