Graduating with highest honors is no small feat. But for nine scholars of the Aboitiz Future Leaders program, their recent milestone is more than academic success. It is a symbol of resilience, transformation, and a future built on purpose.

From virtual classrooms during the height of the pandemic to walking across the stage in caps and gowns, these young achievers emerged from different universities across the country, carrying the vision of giving back and shaping better communities.

Among the standout graduates are two summa cum laude awardees from the University of the Philippines Diliman College of Engineering, a magna cum laude graduate also from UP Diliman, and another from Ateneo de Manila University. Others finished cum laude from UP, the University of Santo Tomas, and Rizal Technological University.

Aboitiz Foundation President Ginggay Hontiveros-Malvar praised the graduates for what they have achieved despite starting college in uncertain times.

"The achievement of our Aboitiz Future Leaders is a testament to their courage, discipline, and vision for a better future," Hontiveros-Malvar said. "Their education has prepared them to be changemakers, ready to uplift lives, and empower communities."

For Julia Mendiola, graduating magna cum laude in Management Engineering from Ateneo was once a far-off dream. She and her twin brother both entered college at the same time, stretching the limits of what their family could afford. A scholarship from Aboitiz Foundation opened the doors.

"Through this scholarship, I was able to enter one of Ateneo’s most prestigious courses, which has opened so many professional doors for me," Mendiola said. "More than the financial support, the program gave me access to internship opportunities, leadership training, and a community of mentors and fellow scholars who continue to inspire me."

Lance Calamiong, who graduated summa cum laude in Mechanical Engineering from UP Diliman, found that the learning extended well beyond books.

"As a scholar, I want to share the opportunities I’ve received to help others begin their own journeys. I want to give back to my community and help others achieve their dreams," he said.

Since 2000, the Aboitiz Foundation has built a reputation for nurturing changemakers through its scholarship program. Aside from tuition coverage, the program equips scholars with leadership training, internship exposure, community involvement, and review support for board exams. Its aim is to mold young Filipinos into professionals who lead with empathy and action.

Last year, 50 students were welcomed into the program, most of them enrolled in STEM courses at top universities. The Foundation hopes to double this number in 2025, underscoring its continued investment in youth and nation-building.

"Building the future begins by empowering future leaders. Aboitiz Foundation remains committed to supporting education that prepares the youth to lead with purpose and drive meaningful, lasting change," Hontiveros-Malvar added.

For these nine graduates, the tassel was worth the journey. And for many others waiting in the wings, the Aboitiz Future Leaders program promises a path not just to graduation, but to a lifetime of impact.