Manila: A new subsidy program for qualified children of active members pursuing college degrees in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) will be launched this month, the Government Service Insurance System (GSIS) said Tuesday.

According to Philippines News Agency, the GSIS Subsidy for STEM Program will provide PHP15,000 per academic year to each qualified grantee to help cover education-related expenses. The program is open to children of active members with permanent employment status, Salary Grade 15 and below, and updated premium payments for the last three months.

Eligible nominees must be incoming first-time college freshmen with a general weighted average of at least 90 percent in senior high school and must be enrolled in identified STEM degree programs. GSIS has allotted 1,000 slots nationwide, with 20 percent reserved for applicants from special sectors, including Indigenous Peoples, solo parent families, persons with disabilities, and other qualified groups.

'Katulad ng Pangulo, naniniwala ang GSIS na ang edukasyon ay isa sa pinakamahalagang puhunan para sa kinabukasan ng ating bansa (Like the President, GSIS believes education is one of the most important investments for the future of our country),' GSIS President and General Manager Wick Veloso said. Veloso emphasized that the program seeks to help children of GSIS members become the next generation of scientists, engineers, technologists, and innovators who will contribute to national development.

The GSIS will conduct a nationwide orientation for its assigned coordinators on program guidelines, requirements, application procedures, and the selection process to ensure smooth implementation.