AES champions education with new batch of college scholars

MANILA, Philippines - Four college scholars became new graduates of AES Philippines Power Foundation Inc.’s (APPFI) Scholarship Program, the social development arm of AES Philippines announced.

APPFI introduced the AES scholarship program in 2009 to help narrow the gap between privileged and underprivileged youth in terms of access to quality academic instruction. The program is specifically developed for bright yet disadvantaged high school students in the Masinloc host community in Zambales province to allow students to pursue higher education.

“Sustainable business is anchored on doing well for our organization while creating long-term value for the underserved communities where we operate. Investing in education is a positive impact that organizations can contribute to the community’s well-being. Through education, the whole community builds the foundation necessary to build tomorrow’s leaders,” said Neeraj Bhat, market business leader for the Philippines and APPFI chairman.

Jonna Danao Cambarihan, a graduate of Bachelor of Science (BS) in Business Administration, said that the scholarship has allowed her to gain valuable mentorship and on-the-ground experience.

“It was a real experience in the corporate world. As an intern in a company’s corporate branding and communications department, I learned how to manage media and public relations,” said Cambarihan who finished her on-the-job training.

Two scholarship recipients – Information Technology graduate Shiela Mae Echon and psychology major Peniel Elamparo – both received academic excellence awards as they graduated from their respective colleges.

Everlyn Cenita Mahait a Hotel and Restaurant Management graduate, also joins Cambarihan, Echon, and Elamparo in this year’s commencement ceremonies.

Eighteen scholars pursuing college degrees in engineering, business administration, psychology, hotel and restaurant management, information technology and accountancy are also expected to graduate in two years’ time.

As part of the scholarship program, AES scholars join teachers, parents and  community members  every semester break in conducting reading tutorials for early grade school students, and helping out in the monthly medical and dental missions in Masinloc.

The AES scholars also participate in the annual Brigada Eskwela, where they contribute repair and maintenance work to selected public schools in Masinloc.

Pursuing its commitment to nourish the local youth through quality education, AES reopens the doors of its foundation to interested and qualified applicants pursuing engineering college degrees for the school year 2015-2016.

Open to public high school graduates from the Masinloc host community and from the whole province of Zambales, the scholarship offers full financial assistance to qualified applicants and will cover the student’s daily allowance, tuition, miscellaneous expenses, book requirements, and transportation needs.