Lasting Impact of TPEF on Society

Welcome our new 11 TPEF Scholars

On the 2nd and 24th day of June 2023, the TORM Philippines Education Foundation, Inc. held the onboarding and welcoming event of the 11 youths from Capoocan, Leyte; Ibaan, Batangas; Orani, Bataan; and Pasay City, who were awarded the TPEF scholarship for college. During the awarding ceremony, all new scholars received a certificate of recognition, and a memorandum of undertaking which clearly define TPEF policies.

Words of Wisdom

The inspirational messages from the School Head of Pinamopoan Senior High School Stand-Alone, and school representatives of Don Mariano Salvacion Memorial National High School, and Libertad National High School in Capoocan, Leyte highlighted the significance of the scholarship for inspiring the young scholars to strive hard, complete their studies, improve their economic status, and support their families in the future. During their speeches, they shared success principles and encouraged the scholars to build connections, take risks, be resilient, seek knowledge, and set strategic priorities.

While, the keynote speaker, TPEF scholar alumnus, Chief Officer Jason Delmo, emphasized that perseverance is the key to becoming successful in one’s chosen field. Another, inspiring speech from the TPEF Board of Trustee President, Miss Grinnabelle C. Duran. She urged the scholars to seize the opportunity given to them, as only a few were chosen to be granted the scholarship.

Both speakers also shared the same thoughts about not forgetting where they came from and the importance of helping people in need once they succeed in life.

Gratitude

The awarding ceremony also served as the venue for the new scholars to say, “thank you”, utter the words “I love you” and give their parents and guardians a warm hug to show their appreciation to them. The event was quite touching because of the scholars and parents’ gestures and emotions which are full of happiness. They were thankful to the foundation.

“After graduation in Senior High School, I know that my granddaughter will not go to college anymore, and she might look for a job to support her siblings. I could not send her to college because I have no income. Their parents left them when they were still babies and had no financial support from them. Now, because of TPEF, she can pursue her dream”, an emotional grandmother said.

All seven scholars from Leyte share the same plight—the difficulties of proceeding to college because of their family’s meager income. Now, with this scholarship, they can pursue their academic and career goals without worrying about funding.

One parent also from the seafarers’ beneficiaries expressed how the scholarship can help the family a lot. “Being a seafarer does not mean being 100% financially stable. I have three children, and all are college students. I could not afford to send them to college at the same time. Hence, I was incredibly happy when I was informed that my son is one of the awardees of TPEF scholarship. It could lessen our family’s financial pressure especially since tuition fees nowadays are increasing. This scholarship for my son has given me peace of mind, lessening the burden of worry and I am confident he can pursue his passion, and turn it into a promising career pathway. I am forever grateful to TPEF.”

The Value of Social Responsibility

TPEF’s vision is to nurture scholars into socially responsible, educated, and productive youth. The awarding ceremony included an orientation on TPEF programs and policies, followed by a “Self and Social Responsibility” workshop. This workshop aimed to instill the values of volunteerism and being role models in the community. The four-hour session had a positive impact on scholars and parents, emphasizing the importance of giving back to society ang living a purpose- driven life.

Career Choices and Preparation for College Life

Another orientation and workshop on “Career Choices and Preparation for College Life” were held for new scholars and parents. The session aimed to raise awareness about college courses and career paths, providing strategies for success in college. Dr. Myreen P. Cleofe, PhD, RGC, RPSY, RPM, LPT from the University of Santo Tomas (UST) facilitated the workshop, guiding scholars in setting their goals and preparing academically. Parents expressed commitment to supporting their children’s academic journey, lightening their burdens, and preparing for potential challenges in college. The workshop boosted scholar’s confidence in pursuing careers as nurses, educators, engineers, IT specialists, chef, events manager, and seafarers.