MANILA, Nov. 21 -- Energy and agriculture-focused Fulbright scholarships customized for individuals from conflict-affected communities in Mindanao will be developed by the Philippine-American Educational Foundation (PAEF), or the Fulbright Commission in the Philippines, the US Embassy in Manila announced Friday.

The PAEF signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with the Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA) to formalize the initiative, which will allow eligible scholars in Mindanao to pursue higher education in the United States.

MinDA Secretary Leo Tereso Magno said this deal reflects the two partners' belief that "education is the most powerful engine of peace, progress, and prosperity."

The PAEF signed a partnership agreement wit...