Through its five-module Scholar Development Program (SchoDev), the Gokongwei Brothers Foundation (GBF) supplements financial assistance with structured learning experiences that support its scholars’ personal and professional growth.
More than 200 GBF scholars have completed IGNITE, the program’s first core module, through regional GBF Scholars Gatherings across Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao.
These regional workshops were hosted by partner universities, including Benguet State University, University of the Philippines–Diliman, Philippine Normal University, and Bicol University in Luzon; West Visayas State University in the Visayas; and Mindanao State University–Iligan Institute of Technology and University of the Immaculate Conception in Mindanao.
The regional rollout also led to the formation of local GBF Scholar Chapters, giving participants a platform to support one another, exchange ideas, and collaborate as they progress through the program.
Building Skills Beyond the Classroom
The journey begins with the IGNITE module, which helps scholars recognize their values and strengths, respond constructively to change, and develop a purposeful vision for their future. Moderated reflections, group discussions, and collaborative activities encourage them to take a more active role in shaping the direction of their lives.
Scholars then advance to the second module, CARE, which develops emotional intelligence and self-leadership using ExSELLEnT Philippines, a social-emotional learning framework grounded in Filipino values, culture, and everyday experiences.
CARE is centered on three pillars: caring for oneself, building healthy relationships with others, and managing resources responsibly. The current rollout of the program focuses on the first two. Through practical exercises and conversations, participants learn to understand and manage their emotions, build relationships grounded in empathy, and make more deliberate choices when facing personal and academic challenges.
Learning Through Shared Experiences
Asnorah Panondi, a GBF TeachSTEM scholar from MSU-Marawi, described IGNITE as “a gentle reminder of who we are becoming.” Although initially anxious about attending the gathering, she found warmth, respect, and a sense of belonging among scholars from different places and backgrounds.
She said the GBF scholarship had eased her financial worries while creating an environment where she could grow with greater confidence.
Loyd G. Serino likewise valued the opportunity to pause, reflect, and learn from fellow scholars’ experiences, including their struggles, turning points, and efforts to keep moving forward. Across the gatherings, such conversations reminded scholars that they did not have to face their challenges alone.
As participants moved into CARE, many found lessons they could apply to their relationships, responsibilities, and everyday decisions.
Phoebe Ricel Tek-ing took away the reminder that “we always hold the power to choose how we respond,” even when circumstances cannot be changed. The module helped her understand how a shift in perspective can influence the feelings and responses that follow.
Ezekiel Arrogante found that CARE made emotional intelligence easier to understand and apply. His key takeaway, “You can’t pour from an empty glass,” reinforced the importance of looking after oneself before extending genuine care and support to others.
Raphee Magararu also found CARE timely as she navigated the pressures of student life. Learning to pause, reframe negative thoughts, and communicate with empathy has helped her approach her academic responsibilities and personal relationships with greater intention.
The local GBF Scholar Chapters allow these connections to develop beyond the workshops, giving scholars a continuing space to exchange perspectives, encourage one another, and apply what they have learned as they progress through SchoDev.
The Next Phase of SchoDev
GBF plans to bring IGNITE and CARE to more scholars across the country while strengthening the community formed through the regional gatherings. The next phase of CARE will introduce Care for Resources, the remaining pillar within the module, which will help scholars manage their time and finances more responsibly.
Beyond CARE, the foundation is currently developing SchoDev’s third core module, building on the self-awareness, emotional intelligence, and relationships established through IGNITE and CARE. It will help prepare scholars to build careers in STEM and contribute to their communities.
For more information on the Gokongwei Brothers Foundation, visit gokongweibrothersfoundation.org
