Exclusive education: No Filipino should be left behind

Biased scholarships

The Education Program Supervisor (EPS) in English of Biñan, Edmill Recibe, stated that Biñan has numerous scholarships for Biñanense student, however for most of the scholarships he explained --- especially the Scholarship ng Biñan program --- the only way to attain these scholarships are through exceptional grades in school. So what now for those who are poor and challenged? If scholarships are attained this way, how will the most impoverished be raised to better lives.

Bias

Although, indeed, it is really commendable for Biñan having scholarships that vary from grade level and academic or extracurricular, but it is questionable how these scholarships are selected. According to Recibe, the Scholarship of Biñan program’s beneficiaries are not selected by exams but by their academic performance. So, if that’s put into account, even the wealthy can apply to this program, ultimately leaving little space left for those who are in dire need of it. Then again, there are still financial programs specifically for the less fortunate but they are still selected by academic performance.

Exclusivity in scholarships

On the other hand, Biñan does not really offer any local scholarship for the physically and mentally disabled. In fact, the only program for them in the municipality is the Special Education (SPED) program and nothing more nationally ran by the Department of Education (DepEd). Despite the number of scholarships available in the city, it still found ways to be exclusive. 

In addition, many people, even teachers, still stigmatize those who are challenged with neurodivergency. Over 5% of the Filipino learner population is diagnosed with this disability. Still, their small number shouldn’t be overlooked It is disappointing to see this especially in a modern world where people should be more open.

No Filipino should be left behind

Even though Biñan offers many beneficial programs for learners, this still is not an excuse to stop improving or even adding more to them for the sake of inclusivity. If they really want to benefit the life of every Filipino in education, they should educate every single Filipino. DepEd must work on considering not just the majority, but also the minority