FROM STUDENTS TO CHANGEMAKERS: Nine Aboitiz Future Leaders scholars graduated from college for the academic year 2024-2025, ready to create positive change in their communities and beyond.
In pursuit of its commitment to advancing education and nurturing changemakers, Aboitiz Foundation celebrates the graduation of nine Aboitiz Future Leaders scholars for academic year 2024-2025.
Among the graduates are two summa cum laude awardees from the University of the Philippines Diliman College of Engineering, a magna cum laude graduate also from UP Diliman, and a magna cum laude graduate from Ateneo de Manila University. Three scholars graduated cum laude from UP Diliman, another cum laude from the University of Santo Tomas, while the ninth scholar earned a degree in Accountancy from Rizal Technological University.
Aboitiz Foundation President Ginggay Hontiveros-Malvar lauded the scholars for exemplifying academic excellence and extraordinary resilience, noting that many of them began their college journeys at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic.
“The achievement of our Aboitiz Future Leaders is a testament to their courage, discipline, and vision for a better future,” Hontiveros-Malvar said. “Their education has prepared them to be changemakers, ready to uplift lives, and empower communities.
For Julia Mendiola, studying at Ateneo de Manila University was once a distant dream. Coming from a family where she and her twin brother entered college at the same time, she thought enrolling at Ateneo was beyond reach until she was selected for a scholarship by Aboitiz Foundation. She finished her degree in Management Engineering, magna cum laude.
“Through this scholarship, I was able to enter one of Ateneo’s most prestigious courses, which has opened so many professional doors for me,” she shared. “More than the financial support, the program gave me access to internship opportunities, leadership training, and a community of mentors and fellow scholars who continue to inspire me.”
Lance Calamiong, who graduated summa cum laude in Mechanical Engineering from UP Diliman, highlighted the holistic growth he gained as an Aboitiz Future Leaders scholar, saying the educational trips and seminars he attended as part of the program broadened his perspective beyond the classroom.
“As a scholar, I want to share the opportunities I’ve received to help others begin their own journeys. I want to give back to my community and help others achieve their dreams,” he said.
Established in 2000, Aboitiz Foundation’s scholarship program supports deserving college students by providing financial aid, internship opportunities, leadership training sessions and community engagement activities. Scholars also receive academic incentives and subsidies for board exam reviews equipping them for success beyond graduation.
In 2024, 50 new scholars joined the roster of Aboitiz Future Leaders, many pursuing science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) degrees at leading universities nationwide. This year, the Foundation aims to double the number to 100 scholars, reflecting its strong belief in education as a key driver of progress.
“Building the future begins by empowering future leaders. Aboitiz Foundation remains committed to supporting education that prepares the youth to lead with purpose and drive meaningful, lasting change,” Hontiveros-Malvar said.
