Ten University of the Philippines (UP) Mindanao students benefited from the UP Alumni Association’s (UPAA) Living Expenses Assistance Program (LEAP) in simple ceremonies held in the UP Mindanao Gaisano Room on February 18, 2026.
UPAA director Atty. Jeffrey Jefferson Coronel and wife Missy Mardoquio, both UPMin alumni, personally delivered the LEAP benefit to the eight students who attended.
“We are prioritizing senior or graduating students so they can contribute to society soonest,” said Atty. Coronel. “We hope that more alumni will extend assistance,” he said.
UPMin Chancellor Lyre Anni Murao thanked the UPAA for the LEAP. “Much assistance is needed, and we thank the UPAA and its LEAP for adding to the assistance now available to our students,” she said. She advised the students to use the funds wisely.
LEAP is a UPAA flagship program launched in January 2026 by UPAA President and Alumni Regent Robert Aranton.
The photo above shows the student beneficiaries (left-right) Cristine Lofranco (4BS Agribusiness Economics) from Panabo City, Nadine Banta (4BS Food Technology), Princess Danna Garcia (4BS Biology), Michael Mansing (3Bachelor of Sports Science [BSS]), Aiven Castro (3BSS), Elkannah Anchovas (4BA Communication and Media Arts), and Chamierose Faith Nalangggay (3BS Data Science). Not in photo is Candy Karyll Escalera, 3-Bachelor of Sports Science (BSS), Hazel Ross Arzaga (BS Architecture [BSA]), and R.J. May Polvorosa (BSA).
Standing behind are UPMin PR Officer and UPAA-Davao Treasurer Rene Estremera, UPAA director Atty. Jeffrey Jefferson Coronel, Chancellor Lyre Anni Murao, Scholarships Officer Alma T. Marcelino, and Guidance Services Specialist Remigio P. Domingo.