ILAGAN CITY, ISABELA — For Jessica Cabaldo and Rosemarie Maximino, going to college is no longer a distant dream.
The two young Aeta women from Ilagan City are among the pioneer scholars given an opportunity to pursue higher education at the newly established City of Ilagan College (CIC) through the scholarship program of the city government.
Their story is about more than simply getting a college education.
For Cabaldo and Maximino, the scholarship represents a chance to overcome one of the biggest barriers facing many students from financially struggling families: the cost of pursuing higher education.
Tuition is only one part of the challenge. Transportation, food, school supplies and other daily expenses can make college difficult to reach even for students determined to finish their studies.
The Philippine Information Agency reported on August 17 that the two scholars are determined to make the opportunity count. They expressed gratitude to the City Government of Ilagan and Mayor Josemarie “Jay” L. Diaz for helping make their college aspirations possible.
A college built to bring education closer
The scholars’ opportunity comes as the City of Ilagan College begins a new chapter in the city’s education landscape.
The city government announced earlier this year that CIC would officially open on August 12, 2026, as part of Ilagan’s cityhood anniversary activities. The college was established as part of the local government’s effort to expand access to quality and affordable higher education for Ilagueños.
The city government also launched a scholarship program for qualified students, with assessments of applicants conducted ahead of the opening of classes.
That makes the school particularly significant for students who might otherwise have to look farther from home—or give up on college altogether because of financial limitations.
The City Government of Ilagan has also maintained scholarship assistance for students attending private schools inside and outside the city, demonstrating that local education support extends beyond the new college itself.
For these two Aeta scholars, the goal is bigger than graduation
Caboldo and Maximino are not viewing their education simply as a pathway to employment.
According to PIA, the two want their education to eventually benefit fellow Aetas and other young people who face similar obstacles.
They hope to return to their community as professionals who can share their knowledge, encourage younger students to stay in school and help create opportunities for others.
Their ambition reflects a larger idea: when an underserved student gains access to higher education, the potential impact does not necessarily end with that individual.
It can reach families, communities and the next generation.
“Education can change lives,” is the belief at the heart of their aspirations, according to PIA’s account of their journey.
Why the City of Ilagan College matters
The opening of CIC comes after years of preparation by the city government.
Earlier reporting indicated that the city had completed requirements for the creation of the college with the Commission on Higher Education Regional Office 2. Plans for the institution were designed around expanding access to higher education, including health-allied programs.
PIA’s July report said the college was intended to expand access to quality higher education while reducing the financial burden on families.
The college’s launch was subsequently highlighted during Ilagan’s 14th cityhood anniversary, with the institution opening its doors on August 12. Manila Standard also reported on the opening and identified the college as a major highlight of the city’s anniversary celebration.
For Ilagan, therefore, CIC represents more than another educational institution.
It is part of a broader effort to make college education more accessible within the city.
The challenge now begins
But receiving a scholarship is only the beginning.
Cabaldo and Maximino still face the demanding realities of college life: examinations, assignments, new academic expectations and the personal challenges that come with pursuing a degree.
PIA reported that the two scholars recognize the responsibility attached to the opportunity and have committed themselves to working hard and making full use of the support they have received.
Their success could eventually become a powerful example for other Indigenous youth who are still wondering whether higher education is within their reach.
For now, two Aeta students have crossed an important threshold.
They have entered the classroom.
They have been given an opportunity.
And they are carrying with them not only their own ambitions, but also the hopes of their families and the community they want to serve.
Their ultimate test will not simply be whether they can earn a diploma—it will be what they choose to do with it once they graduate.
For Jessica Cabaldo and Rosemarie Maximino, the road from dreams to degrees has finally begun.
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