May 4, 2024
Tzu Chi Philippines awards 8th batch of RAC scholars
By Dorothy Castro
Tzu Chi Foundation’s mission towards education continues to flourish as the eighth batch of Refrigeration and Air Conditioning (RAC) scholars were awarded with scholarships last May 3 at Buddhist Tzu Chi Campus (BTCC) in Sta. Mesa, Manila.
Dolly Alegado Cruz, head of technical vocational scholarships, congratulated scholars on the work they put in towards entering the program. To motivate the scholars in embracing the opportunity given to them, Cruz highlighted the combined efforts of donors, volunteers, staff, and alumni scholars in making the program possible.
The RAC course is one of the short-term programs offered in Tzu Chi’s Technical Vocational Program. Apart from building the necessary skills to receive NCII certification in RAC servicing, Tzu Chi Foundation also provides holistic learning through its Humanities classes. These classes help scholars build a good foundation in one’s character and values.
Anna Dianna Reyes, a TechVoc social worker, had the opportunity to look into the daily lives of aspiring scholars as they underwent the application process. This included fulfilling the documentary requirements, home visits, interviews, deliberations, and medical examinations. After the challenging but very rewarding process, 13 scholars reached the qualifications.
“They all came from different walks of life, and they persevere for their families. Through this scholarship program, we hope to help them achieve their personal goals,” Reyes said.
During the scholarship awarding ceremony, the new batch of scholars learned more about Tzu Chi Foundation’s programs and values. Rosa So, head of Tzu Chi’s education committee, also emphasized the importance of building one’s knowledge and values.
“I challenge you to approach success in a holistic manner, to include not just personal achievements, but also the cultivation of virtues such as respect for life, honesty, integrity, humility, compassion, and social responsibility, or care for others,” So encouraged.
For newly awarded scholar Jay Cris Domanais, this scholarship is a new beginning. Having been unemployed since the pandemic, he hopes that this scholarship becomes the avenue towards his dream: to start a small business.
On the other hand, the scholarship for Rodolfo Llevarez Jr. was a sudden opportunity when his cousin applied as a scholar and recommended that he joined as well.
As a former promo merchandiser, he felt that his financial situation was not improving. “We’re always in debt and we can never make ends meet,” Llevarez Jr. said.
Working hard towards independently supporting his family, he grabbed the chance to study again for growth and a stable job.
To Llevarez Jr., Tzu Chi Foundation’s TecVoc scholarship program is a blessing. Motivated by his gratitude towards the foundation, he hopes to become a volunteer in the future. “It is my personal advocacy in life. I want to be able to help others like me, a scholar,” he shared.
The Refrigeration and Air Conditioning (RAC) scholars participated in a prayer during the awarding program. 【Photo by Matt Serrano】
“I hope you continue to persevere in life as you take this opportunity with the burning desire to fulfill our personal goals. There may be challenges in the process, but Tzu Chi is here to help,” said Anna Dianna Reyes, TechVoc social worker. 【Photo by Marella Saldonido】
During her opening speech, Tzu Chi Head of Education Committee Rosa So motivated the scholars, saying that “the knowledge and skills that you will obtain will not only secure a bright future for yourself, but will become a catalyst for positive change, blessing the lives of others, not just your family.” 【Photo by Marella Saldonido】
“Continue to persevere, and you will finally achieve your goals and be able to help your family and the people around you,” said Dolly Alegado Cruz, Head for Technical Vocational Scholarships. 【Photo by Marella Saldonido】
Rodolfo A. Llevarez Jr. (left) receives his RAC scholarship certificate from Tzu Chi Head of Education Committee Rosa So. 【Photo by Marella Saldonido】
“I’m very happy to receive this opportunity to study. Through this, I can get better jobs and help my family,” said Jay Cris Domanais (left). The newly awarded RAC scholar accepted his scholarship certificate from Tzu Chi Head of Education Committee Rosa So. 【Photo by Marella Saldonido】
Newly awarded RAC scholars pose together with Head of Education Committee Rosa So (center) for a photo. 【Photo by Matt Serrano】
Newly awarded RAC scholars pose together with Head of Education Committee Rosa So (center) for a photo. 【Photo by Matt Serrano】
Concluding the RAC scholarship awarding ceremony, 12 of the 13 RAC scholars pose for a photo with Tzu Chi volunteers and staff. 【Photo by Matt Serrano】
After the RAC scholarship awarding ceremony, scholars went on a campus tour at BTCC. 【Photo by Marella Saldonido】
Twelve of the 13 Batch 8 RAC scholars pose for a photo before the Jing Si Abode, concluding their campus tour. 【Photo by Matt Serrano】