34 Aklanon Scholars Gets Free Driver’s Licenses Through LTO Scholar Program

BY John Robert B. Vega

KALIBI, Aklan- Thirty-four Aklanon scholars have taken another step toward better livelihood opportunities after successfully completing the Scholarship and Livelihood Upscaling Program for the Transport Sector of the Land Transportation Office (LTO) and receiving their driver’s licenses for free.

The Aklanon scholars were among the 212 beneficiaries from Western Visayas who graduated from the program during a ceremony held on September 24, 2026, at the University of the Philippines Visayas Little Theatre in Iloilo, carrying the theme, “Empowering Drivers, Ensuring Safer Roads.”

The LTO initiative provides training and opportunities to members of the transport sector while promoting responsible driving and road safety. Beyond the acquisition of a driver’s license, the program seeks to equip beneficiaries with skills that can support their livelihood and help them provide for their families.

In his welcome remarks, LTO Region IV Regional Director Atty. Gaudioso P. Geduspan II underscored the significance of the scholars’ achievement, particularly for beneficiaries who work to support their families and provide better opportunities for their children. For these individuals, having a professional opportunity to drive can serve as an additional means of income and livelihood.

The graduation ceremony included the awarding of certificates and driver’s licenses to the scholars, formally recognizing their completion of the program. Raezil L. Abada expressed gratitude on behalf of the scholars, emphasizing that the program was a big help by giving them access to training and a free driver’s license, an opportunity that can support their work, daily needs, families, and future.

Dr. Farisal U. Bigsat, Vice Chancellor for Administration of the University of the Philippines Visayas, conveyed a message of support to the graduates, while performances by Grupo Ilonggo De Saltatores and a community dance presentation featuring Grey “Gaboy” Prescott-Gonzales, LTO-6’s youngest Road Safety Advocate, added to the celebration.

In his closing remarks, LTO Region VI Assistant Regional Director Jeck D. Conlu reminded the new license holders of the responsibility that comes with becoming drivers. The program goes beyond providing access to a driver’s license by promoting safer, more responsible, and more disciplined road users.

For the Aklanon beneficiaries, the free driver’s license represents a government service that can directly contribute to livelihood, mobility, and family welfare. It provides them with an opportunity to turn newly acquired skills into productive work while carrying the responsibility of helping make roads safer.

Also present at the ceremony were Kalibo Cable Television Network’s KM 0: Start with LTO hosts LTO Kalibo District Chief Marlon L. Velez and Kalibo SB Member Matt Aaron P. Guzman, who joined the Aklan delegation in recognizing the achievement of the scholars.

Through programs like this, public service becomes more than a government initiative. It becomes a concrete opportunity placed directly in the hands of the people, giving them the skills, support, and opportunities they need to improve their lives, provide for their families, and contribute to safer and stronger communities.