Village Connect
Education continues to create opportunities for young Filipinos as SCG strengthens its long-running commitment to helping deserving students pursue their studies and build better futures through the SCG Sharing the Dream Scholarship Program.
Scholars, educators, parents, company representatives, and partners gathered on September 11, 2026, at Acacia Hotel Manila in Alabang to celebrate the latest chapter of the program, which combines financial assistance with personal development, leadership, community involvement, and sustainability.
Launched in 2008 as part of SCG’s ASEAN sustainable development initiatives, Sharing the Dream has supported more than 4,000 students in the Philippines. Its scholars have come from different communities, particularly Batangas, Bulacan, Taguig, Tondo, and Manila.
For Jirasak Kaeowbon, SCG Country Director, the scholarship reflects SCG’s long-term investment not only in education but also in developing young people who can become responsible members of their communities.
“The scholarship does more than pay for education—it gives a determined student the opportunity to turn hardship into achievement and dreams into a better future,” Kaeowbon said.
He emphasized that Sharing the Dream is designed to provide financial assistance while helping students strengthen their character and prepare themselves for employment and other opportunities after graduation. The program, he added, demonstrates SCG’s continuing commitment to young Filipinos who remain determined to succeed despite financial challenges.
The program also represents the close relationship between Thailand and the Philippines, particularly in areas where education can create lasting social impact.
H.E. Makawadee Sumitmor, Thai Ambassador to the Philippines, highlighted education’s role in strengthening the friendship between the two countries. She recognized the scholars for their perseverance and encouraged them to use what they learn to help their families and communities.
“Education connects people and nations, but its greatest value is seen when students use what they have learned to uplift others,” Sumitmor said.
For the scholars themselves, the program carries a deeply personal meaning.
Ma. Anna Leah E. Quidet, a Grade 11 Senior High School student at Batangas State University–Malvar Campus and a current SCG scholar, expressed gratitude for being selected for the 2026 program. She said the financial assistance helps ease some of her family’s educational expenses while motivating her to work harder.
“I am very grateful to be part of the SCG Sharing the Dream 2026 scholarship program. This opportunity is a great blessing for me because the financial assistance helps support my educational needs and eases some of the expenses of my studies,” Quidet said.
She added that the scholarship is more than financial support because it inspires her to overcome challenges and continue pursuing her dreams.
“This scholarship inspires me to continue working hard, overcome challenges, and pursue my dreams. I am truly thankful to SCG for giving students like me this opportunity and for believing in our potential to achieve a brighter future,” she said.
Turning financial struggles into an inspiring story of success, former SCG scholar Ma. Cecilia B. Ganalongo proved that determination and opportunity can change lives. With perseverance and educational support, she completed her Bachelor’s Degree in Secondary Education and proudly graduated cum laude, transforming challenges into an achievement that inspires future scholars.
Ganalongo recalled a period when financial difficulties made her uncertain whether she would be able to continue college. SCG’s support allowed her to pursue her education and eventually complete a Bachelor’s Degree in Secondary Education.
“Being an SCG scholar changed my life. There was a time when I was unsure if I could continue college because of our financial situation, but SCG gave me the opportunity to pursue my education,” Ganalongo said.
Beyond financial assistance, she credited the experience with teaching her perseverance, gratitude, humility, responsibility, and the importance of hard work. She also participated in sustainability activities, connected with fellow scholars, and gained an international experience in Thailand.
“To the current scholars, treasure this opportunity, study hard, remain grateful, and continue pursuing your dreams,” she said.
This year, 205 high school scholars will receive ₱12,000 in educational assistance, while 40 college scholars will receive ₱20,000 annually. The support may help cover transportation, school supplies, bags, notebooks, shoes, and other educational needs.
Through the experiences of both new and former scholars, Sharing the Dream demonstrates how educational assistance can extend beyond the classroom. For many recipients, the scholarship becomes an opportunity not only to finish their studies, but also to develop the confidence, character, and sense of responsibility needed to create opportunities for themselves, their families, and eventually their communities.
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