I owe so much to the people who supported me, including Hedcor. Now, it’s my turn to do the same for others. I want young women to know that they belong in any profession they choose, including medicine.

In a small classroom in Barangay Ampusongan in Bakun, Benguet, a young Michelle Mariacos once drew a stick figure of herself—a girl in a white coat with a stethoscope around her neck. For Michelle, that drawing was a promise.

“That little drawing was my dream. I wanted to become a doctor, even if it felt impossible at the time,” she recalls.

For many young women in rural communities, pursuing a career in medicine comes with significant challenges. Limited financial resources, lack of access to opportunities, and societal expectations often place higher education out of reach. But Michelle refused to let these challenges define her future.

Education As Tool For Women Empowerment

Michelle watched her parents—both government employees—struggle to provide for their family. Their combined monthly income of PHP8,000 was barely enough to cover daily expenses, let alone tuition fees for three college students.

“I wanted to pursue medicine, but I knew it would be a financial burden on my family,” Michelle said. “At one point, I considered taking a different course—one that was more affordable, but not what I really wanted.”

In 2016, an opportunity changed her path—she became a Hedcor scholar. Hedcor operates three run-of-river hydropower plants in Bakun, Benguet where it supports local communities through education and development initiatives.

Through Hedcor’s scholarship program, Michelle received financial support for tuition, books, and other academic needs, allowing her to focus on her studies. She completed her Bachelor of Science in Pharmacy at Saint Louis University as a pre-med course before moving on to medical school. Her dedication and academic excellence later earned her a full government scholarship grant, further supporting her journey toward becoming a doctor.

“Hedcor’s scholarship was more than just a financial assistance. It was a vote of confidence—an assurance that my dream was worth pursuing,” she said.

Beyond financial aid, Hedcor’s support also provided mentorship and encouragement, helping scholars like Michelle navigate the challenges of higher education.

“Knowing that an organization believed in me and my potential gave me the motivation to keep going,” she added.

A New Generation Of Women In Medicine

In October 2024, after years of training and perseverance, Michelle passed the Physician Licensure Exam, officially earning her title as a medical doctor. She is now Dr. Michelle Mariacos, Medical Officer III at Benguet General Hospital.

“Becoming a doctor was never just about achieving a personal goal—it was about giving back to the community,” she said. “I understand what it’s like to lack access to resources, and now, I have the opportunity to provide care for those in similar situations.”

Knowing that an organization believed in me and my potential gave me the motivation to keep going.

– Dr. Michelle Mariacos, Medical Officer III, Benguet General Hospital and Hedcor scholar

Beyond her hospital work, she actively participates in medical missions and community outreach programs, ensuring that underserved communities receive essential healthcare services.

“I owe so much to the people who supported me, including Hedcor. Now, it’s my turn to do the same for others. I want young women to know that they belong in any profession they choose, including medicine,” she said.

Supporting Women In STEM And Beyond

Hedcor has supported over a hundred scholars, including many young women pursuing careers in STEM, education, and healthcare. Dr. Michelle Mariacos is one of them, demonstrating the initiative’s meaningful impact.

When we invest in education, we create opportunities not just for individuals, but for entire communities. Dr. Mariacos’ story is an example of how access to education can break barriers and open doors for women in any field they choose to pursue.

–Noreen Vicencio, Vice President for Corporate Services, Hedcor

This Women’s Month, Hedcor continues to support initiatives that empower women through education, ensuring that more young girls have the chance to pursue their chosen careers—regardless of the challenges they may face.

For aspiring professionals like Dr. Mariacos, education is more than just a path to success—it is a tool for change, empowerment, and community development.

“Women belong in every profession, including medicine. The challenges may be there, but with determination and the right support, we can break barriers and achieve our goals,” she said.