The 22nd hybrid (in-person and virtual) edition of the annual Graduates’ Forum was held on July 26-29, 2022. A total of 67 scholars from different schools and universities finished their respective undergraduate degrees. Of the 67 scholars, 36 finished with Latin Honors–2 summa cum laude, 15 magna cum laude and 19 cum laude. Photo shows MBFI, GTFI and Metrobank Group representatives with NCR scholars held at the Manila Tytana Colleges in Pasay City.

Metrobank Foundation, Inc. (MBFI) and GT Foundation, Inc. (GTFI) jointly recognized Class 2022 scholar-graduates during the 22nd Graduates’ Forum from July 26 to 29, 2022.

With the theme “Ang Pagtatapos!? Meaningful Ending and New Beginnings,” a hybrid program with face-to-face and virtual components was organized to cater to scholars from NCR and the regions. It was an eventful week characterized by engagements, exchanges of stories, and sharing of insights from executives and industry professionals, and meaningful conversations.

As Metrobank scholars they are taught by the framework called “Pay-it-forward Service to the 4Cs” serving as their guide in jumpstarting their professional careers. Emphasizing their significant role as Filipino youth taking part in nation-building, the 4Cs refers to Creator, Clan, Community and Country—Gratitude to the Creator by striving for a life blessed with faith; gratitude to their Clans serving as their solid support systems; giving back to Communities through volunteer work and community programs continue beyond college; and advancement of our Country by becoming productive professionals.

“It brings me joy and pride to be in the presence of scholars who are poised to be our nation’s future leaders and innovators. Whether in person or online, the youthful energy and enthusiasm are palpable. In this Graduates’ Forum, we celebrate your successes, academic distinction, and dedication in co-curricular involvements.” shared MBFI president Aniceto Sobrepeña.

Scholars shared their stories and life journeys, and recalled the people who helped them along the way. They outlined their future plans on vision boards to guide their next steps in life.

During the “Where Youthful Energy meets Lifelong Experience” session, executives from the Metrobank Group shared advices to the new graduates related to the professional world.

This year, 67 scholars finished their undergraduate courses from eight partner universities namely: Technological Institute of the Philippines-Manila & Quezon City; University of the East-Manila; Manila Tytana Colleges; University of the Philippines-Diliman; Saint Louis University; University of San Carlos; Central Philippine University; and Ateneo de Zamboanga University. Their bachelor’s degree ranges from education, accountancy, agriculture, environmental management, engineering, information technology, nursing, psychology, and chemistry.

They are recipients of the GTFI- Manila Tytana Colleges Youth for Excellence and Service II (YES) and MBFI- Assistance for the Completion of College Education for Superior Student III (ACCESS) scholarship programs.

Out of the 67 scholars, 36 were Latin honorees— two (2) summa cum laude, 15 magna cum laude and 19 cum laude. They were conferred with Metrobank medals and certificates of academic excellence. They also received cash incentives: P15,000 (summa), P10,000 (magna) and P5,000 (cum).

Speaking on behalf of the graduates, Esteban Chua, Jr., Bachelor of Secondary in Education Major in English, summa cum laude from the University of the East–Manila, expressed gratitude for the help they received and encouraged his fellow graduate scholars to work together for the betterment of the country. “Now that we are on to the next chapter of our lives, let this experience be the start of a collective mission to give back to our nation as our way of saying thanks. Let us not waste our potential and the difference we could make,” he said. Chua is set to attend review classes in preparation for the board exams for him to become a licensed teacher.

Darlene Faith Candelaria, a Bachelor of Science in Nursing, magna cum laude, from Manila Tytana Colleges, considers her scholarship grant as an answered prayer that enabled her to pursue her studies. Raised by a single parent, she shared that their financial situation became her motivation to finish college. Candelaria acknowledged the importance of giving back by immersing herself in different medical missions as she believes everyone deserves quality healthcare. She wants to use the learnings she gained by working for any government hospital here in the country. In the future, she also sees herself working as a medical officer in the Philippine Marine Corps or Philippine Army.

A consistent high-flyer, Vrochen Fernand Padilla took up a BS in Civil Engineering at Saint Louis University in Baguio because of his passion for structural and water management engineering. Living in an area most exposed and vulnerable to extreme weather events, Padilla recalls their house would shake during strong winds resulting to roof leaks, soaking his school papers. Given these experiences, Padilla envisions himself contributing to developing more eco-friendly water management engineering solutions to help his hometown and other nearby areas in the north. Padilla graduated cum laude and plans to pursue further education to become a better expert in his chosen field.

Since 1995, the Metrobank Scholarship Program has been awarding financial grants to support deserving students through college. To date, the program has produced over 1,000 college graduates. For more information on MBFI’s scholarship programs, please visit www.mbfoundation.org.ph.

Tags: 2022 News