Scholar Stories

Kim Allen Agulto

A determined second-year nursing student from Bulacan State University faces the growing challenge of managing a tight budget as academic expenses continue to rise. Coming from a humble background with the unwavering support of a single mother, meeting these demands has been an uphill battle. Yet, this scholar’s resilience shines through. Despite the financial strain and harsh words from others, an unshakable drive to succeed prevails. With hard work, optimism, and an unwavering commitment to education, this scholar exemplifies the strength to rise above challenges and turn adversity into inspiration.

Mikka Ella Sayuma

A determined Bachelor of Secondary Education major in English student at Bulacan Agricultural State College faces the increasing burden of balancing dorm fees and educational expenses. Coming from modest beginnings, she has learned to embrace challenges with a joyful heart and a positive outlook. While financial pressures mount and others may doubt her ability to persevere, her resilience and unwavering passion for learning drive her forward. Fueled by an unshakable dream of shaping the future through education.

John Christian Ramos

John Christian, the son of a hardworking junk collector, is a dedicated Grade 9 student with a dream of becoming an engineer to lift his parents out of poverty. On weekends, he helps at a small peanut-and-corn stall in front of St. Michael’s Church, and during weekdays, he excels in the classroom, often acing exams. His unwavering determination and vision of easing his family’s burdens set him apart as a young man destined for success. As a proud scholar of SMNHS Cycle of Love and Giving since Grade 7, John Christian continues to inspire with his resilience and drive.

Lorenz Pascual

At the break of dawn, Lorenz and his father rose early, had a simple breakfast, and prepared to head to the fields. With fishball sales slow, they spent the day planting rice in Magmarale. This is how Lorenz, a young boy left by his mother, spends his free days—making every moment count as he and his father work together to get through life’s daily challenges. Despite these hardships, Lorenz excels in his studies, remaining an honor student and proving that determination and perseverance can overcome even the toughest circumstances.

Jaspher Sumaria

He is a scholar who balances his studies with the responsibility of making ends meet. Every weekend, he finds creative ways to earn money for his school expenses, often staying up late into the night and waking up early to dive back into his work. Despite the exhausting routine, he faces each challenge with resilience and determination. "Sisisid po ulit ako mamaya," he says with a calm resolve, even as he plans to rest only for a few hours before continuing his work at 1 AM. Though the burden of balancing work and study may seem heavy to others, Jaspher handles it with a sense of ease.

June Rex Dela Cruz

The loss of his mother left a profound impact on him, as they had shared a deep bond. He found himself grappling with grief that affected every aspect of his life. Despite the immense pain and the many challenges life has thrown his way, he refuses to let the bitterness of his experience define him. Driven by a strong will to pursue his dreams. With his father standing by him through every obstacle, he finds strength in the unwavering support they share. He made a promise—to overcome adversity, to rise above the hardships, and to fulfill his ambition of becoming a skilled civil engineer.