Written by Jessica Eulin, Michelle Angelica Yesha Gatchalian, Sarah Ruth Judan, Hendric Paul Labrador, and Alry Joshua Ramirez
On February 10, 2026, ten (10) pre-service teachers from the University of Baguio were awarded scholarships by the Rotary Club of Baguio Summer Capital. Led by its president, Mr. Paraiso Bautista, together with other board members, the club formally extended financial assistance to the selected student teachers. Among the recipients, five students were from the Bachelor of Secondary Education Major in English: Hendric Paul Labrador, Alry Joshua T. Ramirez, Jessica Eulin, Michelle Angelica Yesha S. Gatchalian, and Sarah Ruth B. Judan. As BSED English majors, they continue to embody the BEACON spirit—Becoming Empowered Advocates of Competence and Outcomes through Nurturing Learning Communities—as they prepare to serve future learners with excellence and purpose.
Anchored on Rotary Club’s mission to leverage education as a tool for community development, the scholarship serves as a pathway that bridges support from one community to another. This initiative strongly aligns with Sustainable Development Goal 4 (Quality Education), which aims to ensure inclusive and equitable quality education and promote lifelong learning opportunities for all, further strengthening the scholars’ commitment to becoming competent and outcome-driven educators.
In selecting the scholars, the Rotary Club prioritized pre-service teachers who demonstrated both academic dedication and genuine financial need. Recognizing that many student teachers shoulder internship expenses such as transportation, instructional materials, and daily allowances, the club sought to assist those whose circumstances could hinder the completion of their degree. Through this careful screening process, the organization ensured that the assistance would reach students who not only excel in their studies but also require meaningful support.
Beyond financial aid, the program empowers pre-service teachers to actively contribute to addressing basic literacies, particularly reading and writing, through their teaching practice. Guided by the BEACON framework, they are trained to nurture supportive learning communities while advocating for meaningful and measurable learning outcomes. With the club’s support, the scholars are better equipped to continue and complete their degree in education—especially during their internship phase, where instructional materials often come from their own limited resources.
Through partnerships with organizations such as the Rotary Club of Tokyo Rinkai and the Japanese Scholarship Foundation, the scholars received allowances and school material vouchers, significantly easing their financial burden. These provisions allow them to focus more on lesson planning, classroom engagement, and the development of effective instructional materials.
For the grantees, the journey toward receiving the scholarship was far from easy. The selection process—from the initial screening to the final interview—was rigorous, reflecting the club’s commitment to supporting deserving and dedicated future educators. The scholars expressed heartfelt gratitude for the scholarship, noting that the financial support was a significant help in their academic journey. Beyond easing financial challenges, the recognition and encouragement from the Rotary Club inspire continued excellence in their studies and a commitment to give back to the community as future educators, reflecting their dedication to live out the BEACON mission as empowered advocates of competence, positive outcomes, and transformative learning communities.
