A group of overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) in Dubai has launched scholarship programs that have so far supported 30 students in the Philippines and beyond. This initiative reflects the commitment of Filipinos abroad to give back to their home country.
Marilyn Flores Castro, a former OFW who transitioned to a successful businesswoman, spearheads one such initiative. Her Pinas Cargo Scholarship Program, established in 2018, currently assists 25 scholars across various countries, including the Philippines, the UAE, Pakistan, and Africa.
I was a product of scholarship programs in high school and college in the Philippines, so it was my dream to help students who wanted to finish their studies but didn’t have the financial means to do so.
Marilyn Flores Castro, CEO, Pinas Group of Companies
The program has already produced six graduates, including Jhimton Sasota, who earned a degree in computer engineering from Bicol University. Castro emphasizes the importance of education, recalling her own journey supported by scholarships during her formative years.
Complementing Castro's efforts, the Philippine Institute of Certified Public Accountants - Dubai (PICPA-Dubai) has also initiated a scholarship program focused on K-12 education. This initiative aims to help children from financially disadvantaged families, with five beneficiaries currently enrolled and plans to expand further.
As members of PICPA-Dubai have been blessed with opportunities to grow professionally and personally, we believe it is our responsibility to give back to our communities.
Lyndon Magsino, Founder, PICPA-Dubai
The selection process for beneficiaries includes recommendations from local barangay captains and school principals, ensuring that aid reaches families in genuine need. Magsino highlighted that many beneficiaries were at risk of dropping out of school, underscoring the urgent need for support.
These scholarship programs not only help students achieve their academic goals but also foster a sense of community among Filipinos abroad. By investing in education, these OFWs are contributing to the long-term development of the Philippines.