BATANGUEÑO EDUCATION STUDENT SECURES FOUR-YEAR SCHOLARSHIP THROUGH DOLE’S WODP

Batangas Provincial Director Predelma M. Tan, awarded the check amounting to P17,500.00 to the chosen scholar, Ms. Trina D. Lara.     (Photo by  Arlene A. Garcia /  DOLE-BPO)

Trina de Torres Lara, a first-year Bachelor of Science in Secondary Education student at Batangas State University (Malvar Campus), has been awarded a four-year scholarship under the Department of Labor and Employment’s (DOLE) Workers Organization Development Program (WODP).

Lara shared that the ₱17,500 grant will help pay for her tuition and other school-related expenses. She expressed her appreciation to DOLE, relaying that this will be a great help to their family to overcome financial challenges, as she and her two siblings are pursuing college education all at the same time.

DOLE Batangas Provincial Director Predelma M. Tan emphasized the importance of the scholarship as a valuable opportunity, noting that Trina was carefully selected from among many aspiring applicants. 

Furthermore, Director Tan also advised her to study hard and find joy in learning, reminding her that DOLE’s programs are designed not only to empower scholars to achieve their goals but also to realize their full potential.

Ms. Menchie Magpantay shared her advice to Trina about dealing with challenges as a student and in life.  (Photo by Arlene A. Garcia / DOLE-BPO)

Ms. Menchie Magpantay, Union President of the Samahan ng Malayang Manggagawa ng Honda, shared that they thoroughly chose Trina because they believe she has the qualities that embody a true scholar-one who perseveres and works hard to achieve her dreams. 

She encouraged Trina to seize every opportunity that comes her way: “Kaya mo ‘yan! Lagi mong i-grab ang mga pagkakataon para sa future mo. If ever you need advice, we’re here to guide you. Andito lang kami para sayo, sa pag-aaral mo. Kailangan mo din syempre ng guidance ng parents mo, namin, ng DOLE,” she added. 

Trina D. Lara, the first scholar of  Samahan ng Malayang Manggagawa ng Honda, relays her message to students like her who are challenged, yet determined to finish their studies.  (Leomar de. Torrres /DOLE-BPO)

“Nakita ko kung yung sacrifices ng parents ko para sa namin, mas namomotive pa po ko lalo na pagbutihin ang pag-aaral ko”, she shared. She also said that the scholarship will allow her to honor and fulfill her mother’s dream, which is to become a teacher.

To her fellow students and aspiring scholars, she encouraged them to always aim high and put their trust in God. “Always pray to God because He has big plans for you,” she shared. 

By supporting students like Trina, DOLE continues to turn its mission into action of helping Filipino families rise above financial challenges and inspiring the next generation to pursue their dreams through education.