PEP

SCG empowers youth through scholarships

DT · Sep 11, 2026, 11:18 PM

H.E. Mrs. Makawadee Sumitmor, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Kingdom of Thailand to the Republic of the Philippines, delivers remarks during the SCG Sharing the Dream 2026 scholarship event. — Photograph courtesy of SCG

Siam Cement Group (SCG) continues to support Filipino youth through its SCG Sharing the Dream Scholarship Program, providing educational assistance to students who demonstrate academic excellence, responsibility and dedication to their families.

SCG held its 2026 scholarship event on 11 September at Acacia Hotel Manila in Alabang, bringing together scholars, educators, partners and company representatives to celebrate education and opportunities for young Filipinos.

The event was led by Thai Ambassador to the Philippines Makawadee Sumitmor and SCG Philippines Country Director Jirasak Kaewubol.

Launched in 2008 as part of SCG’s ASEAN sustainable development initiatives, the program has awarded scholarships to more than 4,000 students in the Philippines over the past 18 years.

Bulacan State University alumna and former SCG scholar Cecilia Ganalongo attended the event and delivered a speech about her experiences. Ganalongo was an SCG scholar for eight years and graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Education, major in Mathematics, with the distinction of Magna Cum Laude.

The initiative supports students in communities where SCG operates, including Batangas, Bulacan, Taguig and Tondo in Manila. The company said the program seeks to help young people pursue their aspirations while developing leadership, community engagement and sustainability values.

For 2026, 250 high school scholars will receive P12,000 worth of educational assistance, which may be used for transportation and school supplies. Another 40 college scholars will receive P20,000 in educational assistance annually.

The Siam Cement Group (SCG) held this year’s awarding ceremony for 290 scholarship recipients on 11 September.

Applicants are required to have a General Weighted Average of at least 85 percent, with no grade below 80 percent. They must also demonstrate financial need, with their household earning less than P12,000 monthly, and show active participation in non-academic organizations and extracurricular activities.

Applicants must submit a completed application form through their school office, along with a written paragraph expressing gratitude to their parents and explaining their contribution to the family, a photograph, contact information and a teacher’s reference letter.

Beyond scholarships, SCG also runs youth and community initiatives, including Green Active Generation, which encourages young people to become agents of positive change in their communities.

Batangas State University freshman and SCG scholar Ma. Anna Quidet attends this year’s awarding ceremony. Quidet is among the 290 scholars awarded this year.

Jirasak Kaewubol emphasized that the Sharing the Dream Scholarship Program is designed not only to provide financial assistance but also to help deserving Filipino students complete their education, strengthen their character and prepare for future employment.

He said the program reflects SCG’s long-term commitment to supporting young people who have the determination to succeed despite financial challenges.

“A 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.

SCG Country Director Jirasak Kaewubol, Thailand Ambassador to the Philippines Makawadee Sumitmor, and DepEd External Partnership Service Director Hero Hernandez joined the ceremony and delivered congratulatory messages to this year’s scholarship awardees, recognizing their achievements and encouraging them to continue pursuing academic excellence.

Thai Ambassador to the Philippines Makawadee Sumitmor highlighted the importance of education in strengthening the friendship between Thailand and the Philippines. She recognized the scholars for their perseverance and encouraged them to use the knowledge and opportunities they receive to improve their lives, support their families and contribute positively to their communities.

“Education connects people and nations, but its greatest value is seen when students use what they have learned to uplift others,” Sumitmor said.

Through its education and corporate social responsibility programs, SCG said it continues to support initiatives aimed at improving livelihoods and promoting economic, social and environmental development.