DILG Slams Alleged ‘Draw Lots’ System in Selecting Scholarship Beneficiaries in Some Barangays
DILG is condemning the reported use of a “draw lots” system in selecting scholarship beneficiaries in several barangays.
The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) said that the officials choose scholarship recipients through a lottery-style process that does not follow the guidelines set by the national government.
The agency emphasized that scholarships are not prizes that should be awarded based on luck, but assistance programs intended for students who genuinely need support to continue their education.
DILG City Director Dennis Beltran explained that the responsibility for screening and selecting scholarship beneficiaries should belong to the Barangay Committee on Education. The committee is expected to carefully review the qualifications and circumstances of applicants before making a final decision.
Beltran pointed out that the reported use of draw lots or random selection is not in line with the provisions of DILG Memorandum Circular No. 2026-038, which outlines the proper process for identifying eligible scholars in every barangay.
Under the Bagong Pilipinas Barangay Scholars Program, beneficiaries are entitled to receive P20,000 in financial assistance to help support their educational expenses. However, applicants must meet specific requirements before they can be considered for the scholarship.
The guidelines state that recipients should be incoming fourth-year college students who come from poor or vulnerable families and are at risk of not completing their studies because of financial difficulties.
DILG officials stressed that each application must undergo careful evaluation to ensure that the assistance reaches those who need it the most.
The DILG also emphasized the importance of transparency and fairness in the selection process. Rather than relying on chance, barangay officials are encouraged to thoroughly assess the background, financial situation, and eligibility of every applicant.
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