January 23, 2026
Tzu Chi reaffirms partnership with QCU, UCC, PLMar
By Dorothy Castro
On January 15, Tzu Chi Foundation Philippines formalized its partnerships with Quezon City University (QCU), University of Caloocan Campus (UCC), and Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Marikina (PLMar) at the Buddhist Tzu Chi Campus in Sta. Mesa, Manila.
Through Tzu Chi’s Educational Assistance Program, these universities have provided scholarships to countless financially challenged students since 2010. Although the partnerships were paused in 2022, this recent renewal gives the latest batch of students from each school access to quality education, which will open doors to better job opportunities after graduation.
“We are four cities that have come together,” said Tzu Chi Foundation Philippines CEO Henry Yuñez, citing how institutions from Quezon City, Caloocan, Marikina, and Manila were brought together for a shared purpose. “We hope that this scholarship opportunity will allow students to focus solely on their studies,” he added, citing how many students in underprivileged communities often sacrifice their studies to serve as breadwinners of their families.
For Tzu Chi scholar alumna Ailyn Tambong from UCC, who graduated in 2014, Tzu Chi became her answered prayer. Through the foundation, she received both a scholarship and medical assistance. “In our family, not a single one is a college graduate,” she recalled, as hunger and the lack of basic resources, such as electricity, were constant struggles. When she developed a tumor on her neck 14 years ago, Tzu Chi took care of her hospital bills and medication, and even treated her father’s eyesight when it was most needed.
“This is my second life now,” she said, grateful for Tzu Chi. Her story has been a testimony of hope, and of Tzu Chi’s commitment to help scholars and their families.
QCU University President Theresita Atienza saw the full extent of Tzu Chi’s support for the scholars, noting how “they receive a scholarship grant from Tzu Chi, and many use it to support their families: putting food on the table, paying rent, electricity, and water.”
“Your dedication to accessible education creates a synergy that goes beyond funding studies or scholars; it builds futures,” said Dr. Franklin Ayuson, OIC-university president of PLMar.
And this future provides hope for Franc Namoc, an information technology student from QCU. At 19, he has already moved from one job to another, hoping to make ends meet for himself and his sister, as well as contribute to the family members who took them in. It is through Tzu Chi’s partnership with QCU that a better path was created for him.
“This scholarship is not just a bridge for me to graduate. It is a foundation for my entire future; my dream is simple: to finish my studies, build a stable career, and provide a safe, happy home for my family,” he expressed.
And just like every lesson taught by Dharma Master Cheng Yen, the hopes of Tzu Chi scholars old and new have never been for themselves alone, but rather a goal to overcome hardships to uplift their families and help others.
“We are honored to have the Tzu Chi Foundation Philippines as a partner in nurturing the next generation of leaders, professionals, and compassionate citizens, and we thank you for being a beacon of hope for our students,” said Dr. Rodrigo M. Dantay, Jr., UCC vice president for the Office of Student Affairs and Services .
With joined hands, these collaborative efforts between Tzu Chi and partner universities solidify the institutions’ shared commitment to transforming lives through education and nurturing individuals, empowering them to be of service to their communities and continue the cycle of hope.
Distinguished guests and signatories from Quezon City University, University of Caloocan Campus, and Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Marikina, were welcomed by Tzu Chi volunteers at the Buddhist Tzu Chi Campus in Sta. Mesa, Manila.
“We currently have almost 1,600 students, and we hope to give even more a chance. Let’s join hands to give these young learners a real chance for success in the future,” said Tzu Chi Philippines CEO Henry Yuñez, expressing his gratitude to the three partner schools.
Distinguished guests witness the signing of partnerships between Quezon City University, University of Caloocan Campus , and Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Marikina .
For Tzu Chi Education Committee Head Rosa So, “this promise to invest in our scholars’ education is to uplift young minds, and build a future guided by compassion, responsibility, and hope.”
Tzu Chi scholars from Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Marikina witnessed the event.
Tzu Chi scholars Lovely Almiranez (left) and Krishianel Jarina (right) from PLMar hosted the signing of the memoranda.
A 2013 graduate, Edelyn Galos was both a full-time student and a house helper. Hence, a scholarship was a blessing that supported her and her family through challenging times. Through Tzu Chi, she learned to extend kindness to others, now serving as a senior labor and employment officer.
“Through love, kindness, and compassion, I am able to give back to the community. And that is also because of the help of the Tzu Chi Foundation.” said UCC alumna Ailyn Tambong.
“Now, because of the stability given by Tzu Chi, I can see a clear path forward. I can immerse myself in learning, pursue new skills, and serve to be the best student I can be without the fear of being forced to stop,” said Tzu Chi scholar Frank Namoc.
Tzu Chi Foundation Philippines CEO Henry Yuñez (second from left) leads the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between Tzu Chi Foundation Philippines and Quezon City University.
Tzu Chi Foundation Philippines CEO Henry Yuñez (fourth from left) leads the signing of a Memorandum of Agreement with officials from the Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Marikina.
Tzu Chi Foundation Philippines CEO Henry Yuñez (third from left) leads the signing of a Memorandum of Agreement with representatives from the University of Caloocan Campus.
Representatives from Tzu Chi Foundation Philippines and partner universities Quezon City University, University of Caloocan Campus,, and Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Marikina pose for a group photo following the formal signing of their partnership.