More students from financially challenged families will gain access to higher education and employment opportunities under a new partnership between BDO Foundation and Ateneo de Davao University (ADDU).
The two institutions have launched the BDO Foundation-Ateneo de Davao University Scholarship Program and Career Development Pathway, which combines financial assistance with mentorship, internships, and career preparation to help scholars transition from school to the workforce.
The initiative aims to expand educational access while equipping students with the skills, experience, and professional exposure needed to succeed in the country's growing labor market.
Career pathways
Beyond scholarship grants, the program provides scholars with opportunities for workplace exposure and professional development.
Students will receive mentorship and internship opportunities, along with potential career pathways within BDO, giving them practical experience before they enter the workforce.
BDO Unibank president and CEO Nestor V. Tan said education creates opportunities that extend well beyond the classroom.
"Through education, we can help create opportunities that extend far beyond the classroom. We hope this partnership will enable more students to reach their potential and, in turn, contribute to their communities, their industries and the country's continued development," Tan said.
The foundation said integrating financial support with career development is intended to help scholars build the confidence and capabilities needed for long-term professional success.
Shared commitment
Ateneo de Davao University welcomed the collaboration, saying it would create lasting opportunities for students while strengthening ties between academe and industry.
Rev. Fr. Karel S. San Juan, S.J., university president, said the partnership would encourage innovation and learning between the two institutions.
"BDO will surely inspire our own rigor and innovativeness in Ateneo de Davao. So we hope that you will find our students engaging, effective, and also formative and open to learn from you," he said.
The partnership was formalized through a memorandum of agreement signed by officials of BDO Foundation and Ateneo de Davao University.
Representing BDO Foundation were trustees Nestor V. Tan; Evelyn C. Salagubang, BDO human resources group head; Maria Corazon A. Mallillin, BDO branch banking group head; and BDO Foundation president Mario A. Deriquito.
Signing on behalf of Ateneo de Davao University were Rev. Fr. Karel S. San Juan, S.J.; Rev. Fr. Antonio M. Basilio, S.J., vice president for higher education, and Lilibeth L. Leh-Arcena, director of the Office of Pathways for Institutional Advancement and Alumni Engagement.
The partners said the initiative seeks to help more young Filipinos complete their education, strengthen their employability, and contribute meaningfully to the country's future workforce. —Ed: Corrie S. Narisma
