October 25, 2021
Tzu Chi scholars return for second tranche of rice, relief goods
By Joy Rojas
Six hundred and seven Tzu Chi scholars returned to Buddhist Tzu Chi Campus in Sta. Mesa, Manila, to claim their mid-term rice and relief goods. Two 10-kg sacks of Taiwan rice and a bag of biscuits, sugar, salt, cooking oil, vegetarian fish sauce (patis), noodles (bihon), laundry soap, bath soap, and shampoo was given to each of the beneficiaries.
Jaypee and Jayvee de los Santos, 20
7 years Tzu Chi scholars
Twin brothers Jaypee and Jayvee de los Santos became Tzu Chi scholars through their mother, former volunteer Ma. Victoria de los Santos. Widowed early, she spent her weekend mornings collecting paper and plastics for recycling. Upon learning that the foundation was offering scholarships, she managed to convince Tzu Chi volunteer Woon Ng to give a scholarship to each of her boys, who were then enrolled at Old Balara Elementary School.
Scholars since fourth grade, the brothers, now 20, are on their freshman year in college. Jaypee is enrolled in Bachelor of Secondary Education major in Science at the Polytechnic University of the Philippines. Jayvee is studying Bachelor of Secondary Education major in Biology at Philippine Normal University.
Besides covering their tuition and various allowances (books, projects, food, and transportation) and providing them with rations of rice and groceries, the scholarship includes regular Humanity classes, which the brothers are grateful for. “It’s where we learned self-discipline and to respect others,” says Jayvee. Teachings on filial piety made him love and appreciate his mother even more, while Jaypee subscribes to the belief that any help, no matter how small, can have a huge impact.
Someday, both brothers hope to make a difference in the lives of others as teachers. “I want to inspire and touch the lives of the youth,” says Jaypee. “Even if it’s hard, if you have passion for what you’re doing, you’ll feel happy doing it,” adds Jayvee.
Angel M. Mactobo, 19
3 years Tzu Chi scholar
The daughter of a security guard father and laundrywoman mother, Angel Mactobo “is the responsible one in the family,” says her mother Nemia proudly of her middle of three girls. “She tries to find ways to help me and her father.”
Securing a scholarship from the Tzu Chi Foundation was one form of help. “To be honest with you, I had not heard of the Tzu Chi Foundation before,” says Angel, a third year accounting major at the Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila. “But I sent my requirements and qualified, and here I am.”
It’s a blessing that benefits all the Mactobos. With Angel’s tuition and allowances taken care of, both Nemia and her husband Ernesto Jr. can redirect their earnings to the family’s other needs. The rice and relief goods she receives will also last them for months.
Help is assured even after she finishes college. “I want to be a certified public accountant,” says Angel, a youth volunteer in her community in Ermita, Manila. “And to help my family and relatives from Iloilo who are struggling in life.”
For inquiries on scholarships, email tzuchihsscholars@gmail.com.